What to Do After a DWI Arrest in Tarrant County
Being arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Tarrant County can be a frightening and confusing experience. Whether this is your first offense or not, what you do immediately after the arrest can significantly impact your freedom and your future.
At The Dameron Law Firm, our Tarrant County DWI defense attorney helps people in Fort Worth understand their rights after being charged with a DWI. If you or a loved one has been arrested, here is what you need to know.
What Are Your Rights After a DWI Arrest?
After an arrest, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You should be respectful and cooperative with law enforcement, but do not answer questions beyond your name and basic identifying information. Politely ask to speak with a lawyer and do not discuss the case further without counsel present.
What Are the Penalties for a First-Time DWI in Texas?
Under Texas law, a first-time DWI can result in serious consequences. If convicted, you may face:
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Up to 180 days in jail
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A fine of up to $2,000
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License suspension for up to one year
These penalties increase significantly if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.15 or higher, if a child was in the car, or if someone was injured. Texas law does not take DWI offenses lightly, and prosecutors in Tarrant County are aggressive.
How Do You Protect Your Driver’s License After a DWI Arrest?
You have just 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. If you do not act quickly, your license may be automatically suspended. This hearing is separate from your criminal case, but just as important. At Dameron Law Firm, we can request this hearing on your behalf and represent you throughout the process.
If You Were Arrested for DWI, Hire a Defense Attorney as Soon as Possible
Hiring an experienced DWI defense lawyer right away gives you the best chance to protect your record. A lawyer familiar with the Tarrant County courts and prosecutors will review every aspect of your case, including whether the traffic stop was legal, whether field sobriety or breath tests were conducted properly, and whether your rights were violated. At The Dameron Law Firm, we fight to have charges dismissed or reduced whenever possible.
Can a DWI Be Removed from Your Record in Texas?
A DWI conviction can affect employment, insurance, and housing. But depending on your situation, options such as pre-trial diversion, expungement, or an order of nondisclosure may be available. These tools can help limit the long-term impact of an arrest or conviction. We help our clients explore all available legal remedies to protect their future.
How Should You Prepare for Court After a DWI?
Staying in compliance with court requirements is essential. That includes showing up to all court appearances, following bond conditions, and completing any required classes or check-ins. Missing deadlines or failing to follow instructions can lead to additional charges or consequences. With our help, you can make sure you present your best self and meet all court requirements.
Contact a Tarrant County, TX DWI Defense Attorney Today
If you have been arrested for DWI, call The Dameron Law Firm today. We offer free consultations and are available to start building your defense right away. Call us at 817-222-0624 to schedule your case review with an aggressive Fort Worth, TX DWI defense attorney.