Houston College Student DWI Lawyer

Houston College Student DWI Attorney

If you’re charged with DWI at school, a Houston college student DWI lawyer from the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC can help you navigate your case. A DWI conviction can alter the course of your life and can be very stressful to navigate as a student at a university. With the right legal representation, you can be sure you don’t miss important steps or make mistakes that result in more penalties.

DWIs in Texas

A DWI accident can result in serious injury to the driver themself and any bystanders. It can also cause serious property damage. In the worst cases, the victim in a drunk driving accident can die. Alcohol impairment is involved in over 30 percent of driving fatalities in Harris County. The county leads the nation in DWI fatalities.

There were 345 serious injuries and 223 fatalities reported throughout the Houston area in a single year as a result of DWI accidents. If you’re involved in a DWI case where someone is seriously injured or loses their life, you can expect to face more serious consequences.

College Student DWI Laws

It’s dangerous for impaired drivers to get behind the wheel at any age. For that reason, Texas law treats underage DWI cases very seriously. Driving while intoxicated (DWI) can result in loss of your license, time in jail, and fines. Unlike first DWI convictions for adults, minors can be sentenced to community service instead.

However, it is still possible to go to jail, particularly if you’re 17 or older. It’s imperative that you understand Texas college student DWI laws to protect yourself. A Houston criminal defense lawyer can help you.

Hire a College Student DWI Lawyer

The Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC has over a decade of criminal law experience. Over the years, we’ve been a part of more than 350 jury trials and have had thousands of cases dismissed. While we can’t promise a successful outcome based on our past success, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re working with a team you can trust.

Our founding attorney, Joseph Ruiz, completes at least 30 hours of continuing legal learning (CLE) every year, despite the requirement only being 15 hours. He has earned recognition for his successes over the years, including:

• 10.0 Superb Avvo Rating
• AV-Preeminent® peer rating on the Martindale-Hubbell® Directory
• Avvo Client Choice Award
• Client Champion Award
• Lead Counsel Verified
• Rated by Super Lawyers®

Our firm is also a part of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association, National College for DUI Defense, and Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. Industry accolades and awards do not guarantee future case results.

If you’re facing misdemeanor DWI charges, you can expect to navigate your case through the Harris County Criminal Courts of Law. Felonies are handled through the Harris County District Courts instead. Regardless of the scope of the charges against you, you can count on a Houston criminal defense lawyer from the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC to be there for you.

FAQs

Q: Is DWI a Misdemeanor or Felony Under Texas Law?

A: A DWI can be a misdemeanor or felony under Texas law. Your first DWI offense is typically a misdemeanor unless the case involves certain aggravating factors. Under Texas’s updated DWI laws, any subsequent DWI is now charged as a felony. You can expect to pay higher fines and face longer sentences for felony DWIs versus misdemeanor DWIs. Regardless of what level DWI you’re charged with, you can also expect to have your license suspended.

Q: Am I Going to Get Kicked Out of College in Houston for Getting a DWI?

A: You are not automatically going to get kicked out of college in Houston for getting a DWI, but it is a possibility. The penalties you face for DWI as a college student ultimately depend on your college or university’s student code of conduct. Some schools may require you to attend a separate disciplinary hearing or complete other steps based on their policy. It’s important to know if you’re responsible for reporting a conviction to anyone at the school.

Q: Can I Go to Jail for DWI in Houston if I’m Under 21 Years Old?

A: You can go to jail for DWI in Houston if you’re under 21 years old. Drunk driving is taken very seriously under Texas law, regardless of the age of the offender. While a first-time offense is likely to result in community service, a repeat offense can lead to 60 to 180 days in jail. You can expect harsher penalties if you’re 17 or older, particularly if your BAC is 0.08 or higher, or if you’re a repeat offender.

Q: Is the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit Different for Drivers Under the Age of 21 in Houston?

A: The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is different for drivers under the age of 21 in Houston. Under the Texas zero-tolerance policy, it’s illegal for minors to drive with any amount of alcohol in their system. This means that it’s possible to be charged with DUI even if your BAC is below the legal limit. You can face additional penalties if you’re at least 17 years old and show a BAC of 0.08 or higher.

Houston College Student DWI Lawyer

Going up against the criminal justice system can be daunting, particularly as a college student. While younger offenders may have some leniency due to their age, they can still expect to face serious consequences for crimes like DWI. If you or a loved one is facing charges, it’s wise to contact an attorney to represent you through your case.

The Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC has years of DWI defense experience. We’re deeply familiar with Texas laws, and we’re not afraid to provide the advocacy you need through misdemeanor and felony DWI cases. As a local law firm, we’re dedicated to our community members. If you’re ready to learn more about how we can help with your case, contact our office to set up a consultation with a team member today. You can find us in Houston on 23rd Street.