Bastrop County DWI Attorney

Arrested for DWI? Call Cofer & Connelly

If you were arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Bastrop County or a surrounding area in Texas, you need a defense attorney who is focused on your case and your needs. At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we are dedicated to helping our clients get the best possible outcome in their cases. We also understand that getting a DWI can be a scary and confusing time, and we will be here for you throughout the entire process.

Call us today at (512) 991-0576 or contact us online if you are facing a DWI charge in Bastrop County, TX. We have 100+ years of experience.

Understanding Texas DWI Laws

In Texas, if you operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, you can be charged with driving while intoxicated. While this is the most common way to be charged with DWI, it is not the only way; you can also be charged with DWI for driving under the influence of drugs (including prescription drugs).

Penalties for DWI in Bastrop County

If you are convicted of DWI, you will face several penalties.

The penalties for DWI in Texas include:

• First-time DWI: A first-time DWI is a Class B misdemeanor that carries a fine of up to $2,000, three to 180 days in jail, and a license suspension of up to one year.
• Second-time DWI: A second-time DWI is a Class A misdemeanor that carries a fine of up to $4,000, 30 days to one year in jail, and a license suspension of up to two years.
• Third-time DWI: A third-time DWI is a third-degree felony that carries a fine of up to $10,000, two to 10 years in prison, and a license suspension of up to two years.

Additionally, if you refuse a breath or blood test when you are pulled over, you will face a license suspension of 180 days for a first refusal and two years for a second refusal. If you refuse a breath or blood test and you have a prior DWI conviction, you will face a license suspension of two years.

Felony DWI Charges

While DWI is most commonly charged as a misdemeanor in Texas, there are several factors that can elevate your charges to a felony.

DWI with a Child Passenger

If you are charged with DWI with a child passenger, you will be charged with a state jail felony that carries a fine of up to $10,000, 180 days to two years in state jail, and a license suspension of up to two years.

DWI Accident Causing Serious Bodily Injury

If you cause an accident that results in serious bodily injury, you will be charged with intoxication assault, which is a third-degree felony. This carries a fine of up to $10,000, two to 10 years in prison, and a license suspension of up to two years.

DWI Accident Causing the Death of Another Person

If you cause an accident that results in the death of another person, you will be charged with intoxication manslaughter, which is a second-degree felony. This carries a fine of up to $10,000, two to 20 years in prison, and a license suspension of up to two years.

Additional Consequences of a DWI Conviction

Being charged with DWI can have serious consequences. Not only can a DWI conviction lead to a license suspension, but it can also result in jail time. Repeat offenders may also be required to install an ignition interlock device.

If you are facing a DWI charge, you should know that:

• If you are convicted of a first-time DWI, you will not be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
• If you are convicted of a second-time DWI, you will be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for up to one year.
• If you are convicted of a third-time DWI, you will be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for up to two years.

An ignition interlock device is a device that is installed in your vehicle’s dashboard that requires you to provide a breath sample before you start your vehicle. If the device detects alcohol in your breath, your vehicle will not start. Additionally, the device will require you to provide breath samples while you are driving. If you do not provide a breath sample while you are driving, your vehicle will shut off.

If you are required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, you will be responsible for paying for the device and its maintenance. This can be expensive, as the device itself can cost up to $200 and the monthly maintenance can cost up to $100. 

Get Started on Your Defense

If you are facing a drunk driving charge, contact our Bastrop County DWI lawyers at Cofer & Connelly as soon as possible. We can review your case and determine if any of your rights were violated during the arrest. If your rights were violated, we may be able to get your charges reduced or even dismissed. Additionally, your DWI defense attorney will be able to explain your legal options and help you make the best decision for your family.

Don't wait! Give us a call today at (512) 991-0576 or contact us online to discuss your options with our DWI attorneys in Bastrop County, TX.