Pasadena DWI Lawyer

Pasadena DWI Attorney

A DWI arrest in Pasadena, TX, can negatively impact your freedom, finances, and future. Even a first criminal offense can result in license suspension, significant fines, and possible jail time. Texas prosecutors vigorously prosecute DWI cases, but a charge is not a conviction. At The Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, a Pasadena, TX DWI lawyer is ready to protect your rights every step of the way.

Hire a DWI Lawyer

Attorney Joseph Ruiz is a highly respected Texas trial lawyer with over 350 jury trials to his name. Recognized by Super Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and Martindale-Hubbell’s Client Champion Silver Award, he brings trusted experience to DWI defense.

As a member of the Texas Bar College, he stays current on evolving legal strategies. Clients across Pasadena rely on his courtroom skills, attention to detail, and commitment to protecting their rights.

What Happens After a DWI Arrest in Pasadena?

A DWI arrest in Pasadena triggers two separate actions: criminal prosecution and administrative license suspension. Once booked, you will receive a court date, while your license faces automatic suspension unless you demand an ALR hearing within 15 days of your arrest.

The criminal case will be processed through arraignment and pretrial motions and may go to trial in Harris County criminal court. Bail conditions, ignition interlock limitations, or license suspension may be imposed as the criminal case progresses.

An experienced DWI lawyer can represent you in both types of proceedings, file motions to suppress evidence early in the process, and work to keep the conviction and long-term damage to your driving record and criminal history from happening.

Penalties for DWI Under Texas Law

Penalties for DWI in Texas escalate with repeat offenses. For a first offense, expect up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, and a one-year license suspension. A second offense increases the stakes, with up to one year in jail, higher fines, and mandatory ignition interlock.

A third DWI is a felony with a sentence of up to 10 years in prison. Other aggravating factors can also result in more serious charges and penalties, including a BAC of over 0.15, having a child in the vehicle at the time of the offense, or being involved in an accident. An experienced attorney can help protect your rights and mitigate the penalties against you.

Defenses That May Apply in a Texas DWI Case

Being arrested for DWI does not necessarily lead to a conviction. There are various legal defenses based on the specific circumstances of your case, including illegal traffic stops, faulty field sobriety tests, improperly calibrated breathalyzers, rising blood alcohol level, and medical conditions causing you to appear intoxicated. In some instances, even seemingly minor infractions on the part of law enforcement can make a big difference.

There were 85,002 DWI charges reported in Texas in 2023 compared to 85,858 in 2024. Dismissals are becoming much less frequent, with a significant decline from 9,818 in 2023 to just 2,555 in 2024. As dismissals become increasingly rare, having an experienced DWI attorney to guide you is the difference between a conviction and a better result.

An experienced DWI attorney can thoroughly review the state’s evidence, cross-examine the arresting officer, and use any violations of your constitutional rights as a defense to get the charges dismissed or reduced. The small details matter in your defense.

FAQs About Pasadena, TX DWI Laws

What Happens to My Driver’s License After a DWI Arrest in Texas?

Once arrested for DWI in Texas, authorities can suspend your driver’s license under the Administrative License Revocation process. You must request a hearing within 15 days starting from your arrest date. If you do not request a hearing, your license will be automatically suspended. Your DWI attorney can represent you in this hearing and work to maintain your driving privileges pending resolution of the criminal case.

Will I Go to Jail for a First-Time DWI in Texas?

A first-time DWI in Texas is normally a Class B misdemeanor offense that carries a maximum jail sentence of 180 days. Many first-time offenders get probation, fines, or education courses. A DWI lawyer may be able to help you negotiate a lesser penalty or an alternative to jail, depending on the circumstances of your particular case and your previous record.

Can I Refuse a Breath or Blood Test in Texas?

Yes, a driver may refuse a breath or blood test in Texas. However, implied consent laws allow the state to automatically suspend your license for refusal, even if you are never convicted of a DUI. In some cases, the police will just get a warrant to force blood to be drawn. Also, a refusal may be used against you in court. Consult with an attorney immediately following a refusal to learn about your rights.

Is a DWI a Felony in Texas?

A DWI is not always a felony in Texas. A first or second offense is usually a misdemeanor, unless there are aggravating circumstances, such as a high BAC, a child in the vehicle, or a serious accident. A third DWI or DWI with injury can be charged as a felony and result in prison time and long-term consequences. The level of the charge you face depends on your record and the details of your case.

How Long Does a DWI Stay on Your Record in Texas?

In Texas, a DWI remains on your criminal record forever unless it is sealed or expunged, which only happens in rare cases. A first-time DWI with deferred adjudication might be eligible for nondisclosure, but a straight conviction usually can’t be removed. Since DWI convictions can impact job prospects, housing, and professional licensing, it’s crucial to contest the charge early and consider all available legal options.

Contact a Pasadena DWI Lawyer

A DWI charge in Texas can affect your license, your freedom, and your future. With strategic, experienced defense, The Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC can help you fight the charges and protect your rights. Whether this is your first offense or a repeated allegation, don’t go through it alone. Schedule a consultation by contacting our Pasadena office to take control of your case today.