San Antonio DWI Attorney

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) sets the standards for law enforcement officers nationwide to detect whether a driver is operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. 

Attorney Juan Carlos Hernández has extensively studied the NHTSA manuals these officers use in the field. This understanding of the NHTSA training manuals, coupled with Attorney Hernández's experience and knowledge as a commended police officer with the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C., positively enhances your case's ability to prevail in your favor! Mr. Hernández has the unique insight and knowledge necessary to discover all mistakes made by the arresting officer in his investigation against you.

Furthermore, to stay sharp and on the cutting edge of Texas DWI Law, Attorney Hernández regularly attends DWI legal seminars throughout the State of Texas. These legal defense seminars focus on DWI defense's latest legal and scientific developments. This commitment to understanding and mastering the evidentiary and technical issues related to DWI is vital for an effective, aggressive defense. A detailed analysis of the San Antonio police reports videotapes, field sobriety tests, and potential breath/blood test results in your DWI case is just the first step toward defending your rights and challenging the criminal charges against you.

Are you facing a DWI charge in Texas? Contact us online to schedule a meeting with our DWI lawyer in San Antonio!

DWI Laws in Texas

DWI laws in Texas pertain to driving while intoxicated, which occurs when an individual operates a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In Texas, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. However, even with a BAC below this threshold, a person can still be charged with DWI if there is evidence of impaired driving. 

Texas also enforces a "zero tolerance" policy for drivers under 21, meaning any detectable alcohol can result in a DWI charge. The state takes DWI offenses seriously and employs various measures to deter and penalize impaired driving, including strict enforcement, sobriety checkpoints, and enhanced penalties for repeat offenders. It is essential to consult with a knowledgeable San Antonio DWI attorney to understand the specific nuances and potential consequences of DWI laws in Texas.

Criminal Defenses Against DWI Charges in San Antonio

When facing DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) criminal charges, several defenses can be employed to challenge the accusations and potentially mitigate the consequences. 

It is important to consult with a qualified DWI attorney to determine the most appropriate defense strategy for your specific DWI case in San Antonio. 

Here are some common defenses against DWI charges:

• Challenging the traffic stop: If the San Antonio police officer did not have reasonable suspicion to initiate the traffic stop, it may be possible to challenge the legality of the stop and subsequent arrest.
• Questioning probable cause: The prosecution must establish probable cause for the arrest, meaning they must show sufficient evidence of intoxication. This can be challenged if the field sobriety tests or other indicators were conducted improperly or inaccurately.
• Contesting breathalyzer or blood test results: Breathalyzers and blood tests are commonly used to determine blood alcohol concentration (BAC). These tests can be challenged on improper calibration, faulty administration, or mishandling of samples.
• Challenging the officer's observations: The San Antonio officer's observations and subjective opinions about your level of impairment can be questioned if there are alternative explanations for your behavior or if there are inconsistencies in their testimony.
• Medical conditions or medications: Certain medical conditions or prescribed medications can produce symptoms similar to intoxication. If you have a valid medical condition or were taking medication, it may be possible to argue that these factors affected your performance on field sobriety tests or influenced the BAC results.
• Violation of constitutional rights: If your rights were violated during the arrest, such as improper Miranda warnings or unlawful search and seizure, evidence obtained due to those violations may be suppressed.

Each DWI case is unique, and the viability of these defenses will depend on the specific circumstances. 

It is crucial to consult with an experienced DWI lawyer in San Antonio who can evaluate the details of your case and build a strong defense tailored to your situation.

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

Generally, a DWI conviction can stay on your driving record in Texas for a minimum of 10 years. This means that the conviction will be visible to law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, and employers who conduct background checks during that period. 

In Texas, a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) conviction can stay on your record for a significant period of time. The duration that a DWI remains on your record depends on the specific circumstances and the laws of the state. 

It is important to note that subsequent DWI convictions in San Antonio can have even longer-lasting effects, and penalties for repeat DWI criminal offenses can increase significantly.

What Are the Odds of Getting Dismissed for a DWI in Texas?

If you plead not guilty to a DWI in Texas, there is a 15% chance of dismissal and a 30% chance of a lesser charge. However, the exact DWI dismissal rate is difficult to determine because many law enforcement agencies need to track this information.

Understanding the Consequences of a DWI Conviction in Texas

Being convicted of a DWI can have serious and long-lasting consequences. In addition to potential fines and jail time, a DWI conviction can also result in the suspension of your driver's license, increased insurance premiums, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. Our San Antonio DWI attorneys are dedicated to helping you understand the potential consequences of a DWI conviction and will work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf.

Consequences of a DWI conviction may include:

• Driver's license suspension
• Ignition interlock device installation
• Community service or alcohol education programs
• Increased insurance premiums
• Criminal record

Contact Our San Antonio DWI Lawyer Today 

When facing the daunting and potentially life-altering consequences of a DWI charge in Texas, having a skilled and dedicated legal advocate is crucial. At our San Antonio law firm, we understand the complexities of DWI laws in Texas and have a proven track record of successfully defending our clients against DWI charges.  With our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional legal representation, you can trust our San Antonio DWI attorneys to navigate the intricacies of the Texas legal system and seek the best possible outcome for your DWI case. Don't face the uncertainty alone! 

 Contact Hernández Dauphin Legal, P.C. online or call (210) 970-7019 today to schedule a FREE consultation with our DWI attorney in San Antonio!