About DWI Sentencing

Punishments for DWI Convictions

Sentencing occurs in a trial after a person has been convicted of a crime, and it is the final action taken by the judge presiding over the case. In DWI cases, it normally revolves around time to be served in jail or prison, probation, fines and other penalties. The Texas Penal Codes state what the minimum and maximum fines and punishments can be for a given DWI offense, based on whether it is a first time DWI, a multiple DWI, felony DWI, DWI with child passenger, DWI with serious bodily injury (intoxication assault) or intoxicated manslaughter.

Typically, a first offense is a Class B misdemeanor with fines up to $2000, driver's license suspension between 90 days to 1 year and 72 hours to 180 days in jail. For a third DWI the fines can go up to $10,000 with driving privileges suspended for up to 2 years and 2-10 years served in prison. Intoxication assault carries similar penalties to a third or more DWI conviction. Conviction for an intoxication manslaughter offense carries a penalty of 2 to 20 years in prison. The State of Texas intends to convict those accused of DWI crimes and may try to impose the harshest sentences the law allows. This is where a skilled and proven Houston DWI attorney can be of great help to you and your family.

DWI Lawyer in Houston

No attorney, if they are being honest, can tell you exactly what sentence a judge will hand out. At the Law Offices of Ned Barnett, I can tell you that there are positive actions I can take to create the best possible outcome at sentencing. At times, community service can be handed down in place of incarceration. Maximum fines do not have to be levied, and how I present you and your actions can go a long way towards favorable sentencing.

Since 1994, I have helped many good people to successfully fight the DWI charges against them. If a conviction cannot be avoided, I continue to fight on behalf of my clients. With a positive outcome in sentencing, you can resolve any debt owed to society in a manner that is fair and livable.

When you want someone who will work to create a positive outcome at sentencing for a DWI conviction, contact a DWI lawyer in Houston for help.