Buda DWI Lawyer
Being arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Buda, Texas, is a serious matter. A DWI conviction can lead to heavy fines, jail time, a suspended driver’s license, and long-term consequences that follow you for years. But an arrest is not a conviction. With the right legal defense, you may be able to minimize or avoid these penalties.
At The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway, we defend people charged with DWI in Buda and throughout Hays County. We understand the stress that comes with a DWI arrest, and we will walk you through your options, stand by your side in court, and aggressively pursue the best outcome for your case. Contact our Buda DWI defense lawyers today, and put yourself in the best position for a positive result.
What Happens After a DWI Arrest in Buda?
When you are arrested for DWI in Buda, your case will be handled in Hays County courts based in San Marcos. After your arrest, you will face both criminal charges and potential driver’s license suspension through the Texas Administrative License Revocation (ALR) process. The ALR hearing is separate from the criminal case and focuses solely on whether your license should be suspended. You have only 15 days from your arrest to request this hearing. If you miss this deadline, your license may be automatically suspended.
Texas DWI Penalties Can Be Severe
The penalties for a DWI conviction in Texas vary based on several factors, including your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), whether it’s your first offense, and whether any aggravating circumstances are involved. Here’s what you could be looking at if convicted:
First-Time DWI Offense:
- Up to 180 days in jail (mandatory minimum of 3 days)
- Up to $2,000 in fines
- License suspension for up to one year
- DWI education classes and possible ignition interlock device
Second DWI Offense:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Up to $4,000 in fines
- License suspension of up to two years
- Mandatory ignition interlock device
Third or Subsequent DWI Offense:
- Felony charges
- 2 to 10 years in prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Extended license suspension
- Ignition interlock requirement
Aggravating factors, such as having a child passenger, causing an accident with injury, or having an extremely high BAC (0.15 or higher), can result in enhanced penalties.
Common DWI Charges We Defend in Buda
Our firm defends against all types of DWI-related charges, including:
- Standard DWI (alcohol or drugs)
- DWI with BAC of 0.15 or higher
- DWI with child passenger
- DWI resulting in injury (Intoxication Assault)
- DWI resulting in death (Intoxication Manslaughter)
- Boating While Intoxicated (BWI)
- CDL DWI (Commercial Driver’s License holders)
- Underage DWI (Zero Tolerance cases)
- Multiple DWI offenses
How We Fight DWI Charges in Buda, Texas
At The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway, we approach DWI defense with careful strategy and relentless attention to detail. We will challenge the traffic stop if the officer lacked probable cause. We review bodycam footage for mistakes or procedural errors, question the accuracy of field sobriety tests, and investigate whether the breathalyzer or blood test equipment was properly maintained and calibrated. Our experienced DWI defense lawyers will fight to suppress illegally obtained evidence, negotiate for reduced charges or dismissal when possible, and prepare for trial if that’s the best path forward. We don’t back down when your freedom and future are at stake.
Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Hearings
The ALR process is one of the first critical steps after a DWI arrest. If you fail or refuse a breath or blood test, your license may be automatically suspended unless you request a hearing within 15 days of your arrest.
We can help you request the ALR hearing on time and represent you at the hearing to challenge the suspension. We can also assist you in applying for an Occupational Driver’s License (ODL) if necessary to maintain your ability to drive for essential purposes like work or school.
What Makes Our Firm Different?
- Local Experience: We routinely handle DWI cases in Hays County. We know how these cases move through the local court system and what it takes to achieve successful results here.
- Clear Communication: We believe you should always know where your case stands. We will keep you informed and answer your questions promptly.
- Tailored Defense: No two cases are alike. We build customized defenses based on the facts and circumstances unique to your situation.
- Relentless Advocacy: We are not here to make quick deals that don’t serve your best interests. We fight for results that protect your future.
Protect Your Freedom and Your Future – Contact Us Today
If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Buda, don’t wait to get help. The sooner you contact an experienced DWI defense attorney, the more options you may have for protecting your driver’s license, reducing charges, or even getting your case dismissed. Call The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway today or contact us online to schedule your confidential consultation. We’re ready to stand by your side and fight for you.