The Cost of a DWI in Texas

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/ The Cost of a DWI in Texas

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The Cost of a DWI in Texas

Being charged with DWI is expensive. Being convicted can be financially devastating. It’s impossible to put a price on what it’s worth to avoid incarceration, and the potential of a permanent criminal conviction.

How Much Does a DWI Cost? The maximum fine for a first or second DWI offense in Texas is $6,000.00. The maximum fine for a Felony DWI is $10,000.00. Learn more.
An effective DWI attorney can fight for dismissal and work to mitigate consequences, saving time and money, potentially preserving your career and reputation.
How Much can you Expect to Pay for DUI? DUI is a Class C Misdemeanor in Texas, only applicable to minor drivers under the age of 21. Texas has a Zero Tolerance policy for minor drivers suspected of having any alcohol in their system. The maximum fine is $500.00. Learn more.

Can a DWI be Dismissed in Texas?

Yes. DWI charges are dismissed every day in courtrooms across Texas. However, DWI dismissals are fought for, not given. The total cost of a DWI in Texas is easily over $10,000.00, and that’s without a final conviction. For your financial future, it’s important to avoid a DWI conviction at all costs.

Do I Need a Attorney for a DWI in Texas? Yes. Everyone charged with DWI or DUI in Texas needs to hire an attorney. The consequences of a criminal conviction are permanent. It’s crucial to do every single thing possible to avoid a final conviction. The first step in developing a powerful defense is hiring an experienced attorney to advocate for your rights. Learn more.
How Much Does a DWI attorney Cost? Thousands of dollars. The cost of DWI representation varies widely. While most attorneys bill at a fixed hourly rate, criminal defense matters like DWI and DUI are typically priced at a flat fee. Learn more.
The Cost of a Top DWI Attorney Nothing is more expensive than a bad attorney. Experience matters. The best tax attorney in the world likely knows very little about defending against a DWI charge. The “experience” provided is also important. Communication leads to confidence and better outcomes. Make sure your DWI attorney is up to the task. Learn more.

DWI Costs in Texas

In addition to the cost of legal representation for a DWI charge, there are a number of one-time and recurring charges built into the DWI process in Texas. They can add up quickly.

Towed Vehicle Costs Most vehicles are towed in a DWI case. Typically, the rate to get a car out of impound is in the range of $300.00. There can be additional fees per day. Depending on the time between arrest and release, this can become costly very quickly.
Cost of Bond and Jail Release in DWI Cases Everyone arrested in Texas is legally eligible for bond. Bail can be posted towards the bond amount, allowing a defendant to be released from jail, rather than incarcerated until the case ends. Bond amounts for DWI vary. Learn more.
How Much Does Ignition Interlock Cost? Most DWI defendants are released on bond. However, bonds come with costly conditions of release. For DWI charges, the ignition interlock device (IID) is by far the most common. IID’s are required conditions of bond for all repeat DWI offenders in Texas. These devices must be installed in all vehicles driven by the defendant, and cost approximately $100.00 per month to maintain. Learn more.
Drug Testing in Texas DWI Cases Magistrate judges often impose drug testing as a condition of bond for repeat DWI offenders. Personal Recognizance (PR) bonds typically require drug testing as well. Finally, if your DWI case results in Community Supervision, even with Deferred Adjudication, you will be required to submit to, and pay for, drug tests. The cost of testing and analysis range from $10.00 – $25.00.

Cost of DWI License Suspension in Texas

Almost all DWI defendants will face a license suspension due to either refusing to submit a breath or blood specimen, or because the provided specimen was above the legal limit. Texas drivers may apply for an Occupational License to drive legally during the term of suspension.

How Much Does ALR Hearing Cost? The Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing is the first line of defense in every DWI case. It’s also the sole opportunity to prevent a Texas Driver License suspension. It’s important to determine whether this cost is built into the legal representation fees, or if there is additional cost for this process. Learn more.
What Does an Occupational License Cost? The Occupational License process can be quite expensive. In addition to the filing fees, and legal fees associated with the hearing on the application, there are also insurance and DPS reinstatement fees. Occupational Licenses can easily cost over $1,000.00. Learn more.

How Much are Court Costs for DWI in Texas?

The cost of court is separate from any fines associated with a DWI case. Typically, Court Costs in a DWI case range from $200.00 – $500.00. There are no Court Costs if the DWI charge is dismissed. This is another place where an experienced DWI attorney can mitigate expense.

How Much Does a First-Time DUI Cost in Texas? DUI is a Class C Misdemeanor, only applicable to Texas drivers under 21 years old. The maximum fine is capped at $500.00, and typically there is no cost of court, unless a defendant elects trial by jury and is found guilty. Learn more.

How Much Does DWI Probation Cost in Texas?

Community supervision, or probation, as it is most commonly called, can be a good result in certain DWI cases. Particularly with Deferred Adjudication, probation can offer a pathway to dismissal. All counties in Texas charge a monthly supervisory fee to participate in probation. These fees can vary widely, but often fall between $50.00 – $100.00.

What Does DWI Education and Victim Impact Cost? Classes, like DWI Education and the Victim Impact Panel are standard requirements of all intoxication probation conditions in Texas. Theses classes cost hundreds of dollars, and require time away from work to complete.
How Much Does DWI Probation Violation Cost? DWI probation violations are costly. A probation violation results in the State filing a Motion to Revoke Probation, which triggers the issuance of an arrest warrant from the judge.

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Exceptional Defense Attorneys and firm.
I had the pleasure of being represented by Trey Porter Law. Attorney Joseph Strickland worked with me directly and was wit me at every court appearance and I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. From the outset, they set clear expectations on how they could help me avoid jail time for my DWI charge.

What truly stood out was their unwavering support throughout the entire process. They were always accessible, promptly addressing any questions I had. Ms. Aisley would answer my call and respond to my questions on the spot. This was especially crucial when my school and potential employers raised concerns about my pending charges. Joseph Strickland provided guidance on how to navigate these external challenges, showcasing their commitment to their clients beyond the courtroom.

Their professionalism, transparent communication, and dedication to my case made a significant impact, and I am grateful for the positive resolution they achieved. I highly recommend Trey Porter Law Firm for anyone in need of a skilled and supportive defense attorney and team.

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After a search of attorneys in my area I sought out Trey Porter Law Firm, impressed by the detailed information provided on the website and resounding client endorsements. From the introductory phone call, direct meeting, subsequent calls/emails/texts, and throughout my court appearance and disposition, all dealings have been exceptional. Everyone on the team has been friendly and responsive, while still being highly professional. I also very much appreciate the proactive approach taken throughout my case.

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Mr. Porter an amazing attorney, he help me get through my situation swiftly and professionally as well as save me time and money in the process. Working with Mr. Porter was a pleasure, he kept me well informed and updated throughout the whole process which made things so much easier for me to understand. Mr. Porter and his team took the stress out of stressful situation. Mr. Porter and his team was always easy to contact and return my phone calls and emails promptly. I cannot give enough praise to Mr. Porter and his team. I had another attorney in the beginning who wad basically going to railroad me. I would definitely recommend Mr. Trey Porter again and again. If you’re looking for a great attorney who is affordable and knowledgeable and will fight for you, Trey Porter is the attorney to choose. Definitely a five star attorney.

J. Franklin

Trey and his staff are great and make sure to help you with all your questions to get through the process. Trey worked out the best outcome for my issue and got me an opportunity to get my charge expunged. Trey and his team made a negative experience end on a positive note. Truly recommend this law firm for your legal issues.

J. McKibbon

I would like to thank Trey Porter and his team regarding my DUI case. I truly could not have expected a better outcome regarding my case. This outcome only happened because of his expert knowledge and dedication to his profession. Trey really took time to explain every step of the process to me which really helped me make critical decisions on how to proceed. I am lucky to have come across his name and will only refer people to Mr. Porter regarding DUI offenses. Trey, I want to thank you publicly. Your expert handling of my D.U.I. got my case reduced to an outcome I was very pleased with. Nothing against my driving record, no loss of license and I’m positive this wouldn’t have turned out so well without you. Thanks for your hard work, empathy and responsiveness it really meant a lot to me.

R. Valdez

We hired Trey Porter to assist us last year. From the initial consultation up to and including the court hearing, Trey had a straight forward approach to the situation at hand. He explained everything along the way and was available at any time to discuss/answer any questions we had either by phone/text/email. With his experience and professionalism, we obtained the best outcome possible. We would highly recommend Trey Porter with no hesitation whatsoever. Five stars is definitely not enough!

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I highly recommend Trey Porter! He is very professional and attentive to each situation at hand. He does not beat around the bush. Straight forward and explains things very well. Easy to work with. Contacts you before you have to ever contact him. Detailed oriented. Driven to get you the best deal possible in your situation. Him and his staff were absolutely amazing for my situation. Thank you!

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D. Lopez

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I hired Mr. Porter to represent my son in a DUI case. I was worried a conviction would ruin his future. Mr. Porter and the whole office were friendly, thorough, and poised throughout. They respond to text and calls almost instantly. We are just finishing the expunction process after the case was dismissed!!! I am grateful to Mr. Porter and recommend him to one and all. Excellent from start to finish. Thank you TPL!

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I won with Attorney Trey Porter! Had a criminal DWI .15 charge, small accident, but no injuries. This was my first criminal charge of my life. Mr. Porter was great to talk to — as was the entire office staff and other attorneys. Everyone was SO NICE! 9 long months passed and my charge was dismissed. No probation. No conviction. This experience was well worth the money. I recommend Trey Porter, Attorney at Law.

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CHARGES DISMISSED

DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED .15

Driving facts involved failing to maintain a single lane and speeding. Client refused breath test and forced law enforcement to obtain search warrant for blood. Blood test result was not used after challenge from Defense, and State waived and abandoned charge.

CHARGES DISMISSED

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

Client was a college student, worried about the collateral consequences of an alcohol offense. After negotiation and review of the traffic stop, the case was dismissed. Client received no criminal conviction. The charge was later expunged and deleted from client’s record.

CHARGES DISMISSED

DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED .15+

Client was involved in minor accident. Client was at fault in accident. A young executive, client was concerned that a criminal conviction for DWI would result in termination. After review of the traffic stop, it was clear the officer lacked probable cause for arrest.

CHARGES DISMISSED

DWI 2ND

Client, a military veteran, was facing up to one year in jail. State could not prove intoxication by alcohol, and was prepared to proceed on loss of use by marijuana. After challenging the State to prove that marijuana was ingested at or near time of driving, and that marijuana impaired client’s driving, the State dismissed the case on the day of trial.

CHARGES DISMISSED

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

Driving facts involved a false claim by police that taillight was out. After challenging the reasonable suspicion for the traffic stop, the State was forced to dismiss the case when video did not match police report. Client has since expunged arrest, and has no criminal record.

CHARGES DISMISSED

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

Client is a public school teacher and faced immediate termination upon conviction. The facts of the case were bad. State was unwilling to budge in negotiation, and matter was set for trial – the last shot at avoiding a conviction and preserving client’s livelihood. State was forced to dismiss on day of trial. Client has no criminal record, and has since expunged the DWI arrest.

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