Facing Drunk Driving Charges? Put Skilled San Antonio DWI Lawyers On Your Side.

Driving while intoxicated is among the most common crimes in the San Antonio area, and the consequences for conviction can be harsh. If you’re facing charges, your freedom, financial health and reputation could all be in jeopardy. Therefore, it’s time to contact Daniel & Halstead.

The San Antonio DWI attorneys of Daniel & Halstead bring more than 65 years of combined legal experience to each case and client. One of their lawyers previously served as a prosecutor and understands how the state builds cases against defendants. Their team will use this knowledge and experience to protect your rights and create a vigorous defense against the charges you are facing.

Contact Daniel & Halstead today using their intake page or by calling 210-987-5276. Se habla español.

What’s At Stake When Charged With DWI In San Antonio

Texas DWI laws are strict, and the penalties can have a lasting impact on your life. For first-time San Antonio DWI charges, you could be looking at a fine of up to $2,000. You will also spend at least three days in jail, up to 180 days. The court could suspend your driver’s license for up to a year. If your blood alcohol content (BAC) is at or above .15%, you may have to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle.

The stakes are higher for those convicted of a second DWI. The fine can reach up to $4,000, and you could serve one month to a year in county jail. The court may suspend your license for up to two years, and you’ll likely need an ignition interlock device.

A third DWI conviction is a felony in Texas. The penalties could be a fine of up to $10,000. You may also face a prison sentence ranging from two to 10 years. In addition, you could have your driver’s license suspended for up to two years, and an ignition interlock device will be a requirement for a period after you get your driving privileges back.

Why You Need An Experienced DWI Defense Attorney Fighting For You

In some ways, DWI cases seem very objective. BAC is measurable with a roadside testing device, and law enforcement officers have standard operating procedures for DWI stops. However, there is more room for error and interpretation than prosecutors want you to believe, and an experienced DWI defense lawyer in San Antonio will know where to search for weaknesses in the case.

The lawyers of Daniel & Halstead will examine every aspect of your interaction with police and ask tough questions like:

• Did the officer have a valid reason to pull you over?
• Did the officer deviate from protocol when administering field sobriety tests?
• Do you have a medical condition that could have caused you to fail field sobriety tests even when sober?
• Was the breathalyzer administered correctly, and has the device been calibrated recently?
• Were your constitutional rights violated during the traffic stop?

If the officer illegally obtained the evidence or violated your rights in some other way, it may be possible to have the evidence suppressed. This often means that the prosecution cannot use it to convict you. If contacted quickly, the firm’s attorneys can sometimes get charges reduced or dismissed based on weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Prosecutors want you to plead guilty. In some cases, that is the best course of action, but you should never make that decision without speaking with a knowledgeable San Antonio DWI lawyer like those at Daniel & Halstead. Even if a plea deal is appropriate, an effective attorney can typically help you negotiate a much more favorable deal than you could obtain on your own.

Why The Clients Choose Daniel & Halstead

Choosing the right attorney is crucial for defending your rights. At Daniel & Halstead, the focus is solely on criminal law charges such as DWI. The firm’s skilled defense lawyers offer the skills of a large firm while also providing the personalized attention of a smaller practice. Clients are not just numbers; they receive dedicated support from the entire legal team. The attorneys work closely with each client to develop a unique legal strategy tailored to their specific situation, goals and concerns. This strategic, thoughtful approach has led to successful outcomes for many clients.

With Daniel & Halstead, you can expect a committed team ready to apply their extensive knowledge to your case, defending your rights every step of the way. Their website’s results page highlights their skills and successes again and again. The firm gets acquittals for innocent people charged with murder, sexual assault and assault with a deadly weapon. They also get acquittals for those accused of driving under the influence.

Do You Still Have Questions?

Here are some of the questions the attorneys at Daniel & Halstead often hear when discussing criminal cases with clients:

What is the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in San Antonio?

In San Antonio, as in all of Texas and the entire U.S., the legal BAC limit is .08% for most adult drivers. For commercial drivers, it’s .04%, and for drivers under 21, any detectable amount of alcohol is illegal.

What are the penalties for a first-time DWI in San Antonio?

First-time DWI offenders in San Antonio can face up to $2,000 in fines, three to 180 days in jail and license suspension for up to a year. Additional penalties may include probation, mandatory alcohol education programs and the use of an ignition interlock device.

What is an ignition interlock device, and when is it required?

An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer installed in your vehicle. It’s mandatory for repeat and first-time offenders with a BAC of .15% or higher.

Can I refuse a breathalyzer test in San Antonio?

You can refuse a breathalyzer, but Texas has “implied consent” laws. Refusal can result in automatic license suspension for 180 days, and the refusal can be evidence used against you in court. Additionally, if you refuse, the officer may obtain a warrant to draw your blood, especially in larger cities such as San Antonio.

How long does a DWI stay on your record in Texas?

A DWI conviction in Texas stays on your criminal record permanently unless you’re eligible for and successfully complete an expungement or sealing process.

Can I get a DWI charge expunged from my record?

In some cases, yes. If the court dismisses your DWI charge or rules not guilty, you may be eligible for expungement. A conviction is harder to expunge but may be sealed under certain circumstances.

What should I do when stopped for suspicion of DWI in San Antonio?

Remain calm and polite, and exercise your right to remain silent. Many help themselves by not admitting to drinking if they consume alcohol and contacting a DWI attorney as soon as possible.

Can I get a DWI for driving under the influence of drugs in San Antonio?

Yes, law enforcement can charge you with DWI for driving under the influence of illegal drugs, prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs that impair your ability to drive safely.

How can a San Antonio DWI lawyer help me?

An experienced DWI lawyer can challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, potentially get charges reduced or dismissed, and guide you through the legal process to protect your rights and future.

How much does it cost to hire a DWI lawyer in San Antonio?

Costs vary depending on the complexity of the case. The attorneys at Daniel & Halstead offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and potential fees.

Reach Out Today For A Free Consultation

Whether you face charges for DWI in San Antonio or any of the surrounding areas of Texas, contact Daniel & Halstead today. The firm offers free initial consultations to all prospective clients. Call their office at 210-987-5276 or submit an online contact form. Se habla español.