Third-Time DWI in College Station

After two DWIs in Texas, you may already know the process. You may have paid fines, ended on probation, or even faced jail time. However, a third-time DWI in College Station can carry more significant consequences than the first two.

A third DWI is considered a third-degree felony. That means you may be dealing with much more severe limitations on your freedoms if convicted. An experienced DWI defense attorney could help protect you and build a solid defense.

Potential Legal Consequences For a Third-Time DWI

According to Texas law, a third DWI counts as a third-degree felony. That means that if convicted, you can face:

• Between two to 10 years in prison;
• A fine of up to $10,000; and
• License suspension for one to two years after you have served your sentence.

In addition, you may have to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle that requires you to test your BAC before starting the engine, and you may face probation for several years after serving your sentence. These consequences can mean significant limitations on your overall freedoms.

Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows the local court system can improve the odds that you can successfully negotiate with the court, decreasing the consequences you may face for a DWI or, in some cases, being able to plead guilty to lesser charges.

Other Consequences for a Third-Time DWI

If you get a third-time DWI in College Station, you may face more than just legal consequences. A third DWI can significantly impact many areas of your life, such as:

• Make it difficult for you to find specific types of jobs;
• Prevent you from accessing some types of housing;
• Loss of gun ownership rights
• Interfere with different types of loans; or
• Lead to suspension of certain professional licenses.

The consequences you face for your DWI can depend on your industry, your prior offenses, and what specific regulations govern your workplace. Some people can even face job loss after a third-time DWI.

Potential DWI Defenses

You may be able to use several defenses to fight DWI charges. Working with a lawyer could make it easier to fight those charges or minimize the penalties you may face. Common defense includes the following:

• Inaccurate field sobriety tests;
• Entrapment;
• Improper administration of field sobriety tests, including both blood draws and breathalyzers;
• Driving while intoxicated to avoid a greater evil; and
• Improper evidence handling.

A College Station attorney’s familiarity with the local court system could help you make the right decisions as you proceed with your defense for a third-time DWI charge. However, handling the case on your own or with a court-appointed lawyer may mean facing the full range of consequences for your charges.

Contact an Attorney to Discuss Your Third-Time DWI Charge in College Station

When you are facing DWI charges for the third time, remember that having the right defense lawyer on your side can make a massive difference in your eventual outcome. This includes the freedoms you can maintain. Do not hesitate to seek legal assistance to understand your options and rights.

A passionate advocate could help you fight to protect your rights, launch the most effective defense, and fight against life-altering penalties. Contact The Greening Law Group to discuss your third-time DWI in College Station and how you can most effectively fight against those charges.