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DWI as a Certified Public Accountant
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Woodlands and Montgomery County DWI Attorney Brian Foley is Board Certified in Criminal Law and can help you if you are a Certified Public Accountant Charged with a DWI. There is more at steak for someone with an advanced degree and license from the State. Everyone has a driver's license which can be a large enough headache. But when your ability to provide for your family is on the line with a DWI case then you need an attorney with the experience and skill to win at trial.

What should you consider if charged with DWI as a Certified Public Accountant?

CPA Licensing in Texas: Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Texas are governed by the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA). The TSBPA is responsible for ensuring that CPAs possess the necessary education, skills, and ethical conduct to maintain their licenses.

CPA Rules of Professional Conduct: The CPA Rules of Professional Conduct are crucial for CPAs. They include rules that bar accountants from acts that could discredit the accounting profession. A DWI conviction could potentially fall under these discreditable acts, depending on the circumstances.

Disciplinary Process: The disciplinary process under the TSBPA begins with a complaint and may lead to an investigation. CPAs have the right to an attorney during this process, including at a hearing before the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

Reporting Requirements: CPAs are required to promptly report misdemeanor or felony convictions related to drugs or alcohol to the TSBPA. Failure to report such convictions can lead to disciplinary actions.

Employment Consequences: Beyond the TSBPA's actions, a DWI conviction can still have significant professional consequences. Employers may have strict policies regarding DWI arrests, potentially leading to termination or other employment-related issues.

How do you beat a DWI as a Certified Public Accountant?

Hire an Experienced DWI Defense Attorney: The most critical step is to hire an experienced DWI defense attorney who can provide legal expertise tailored to your case.

Understand Licensing Rules: Be aware that only a final conviction or adjudication counts as a discreditable act under the CPA Rules of Professional Conduct. Arrest alone is not grounds for disciplinary action.

Avoid Discussing Your Case: Refrain from discussing your DWI case with anyone other than your attorney or immediate family to prevent statements from being used against you.

Build a Strong Defense: Work closely with your attorney to construct a robust defense strategy, which may involve challenging evidence, questioning the legality of the arrest, or exploring alternatives to conviction.

Seek Legal Guidance Early: Take prompt action to consult with an attorney and begin building your defense as early as possible to mitigate potential consequences.

What is the Punishment Range for a DWI for a Certified Public Accountant?

Potential Punishments: The consequences of a DWI conviction can vary based on factors such as prior offenses and aggravating circumstances. Punishments may include:

Fines
Incarceration
Probation
Mandatory education or treatment
License suspension or revocation by the TSBPA
Professional Consequences: Even if your CPA license is not suspended or revoked, a DWI conviction can have significant professional repercussions. Employers may have strict policies regarding DWI arrests, which could affect your career and employment opportunities.

Other Consequences: A DWI conviction can also impact other aspects of your life, such as your ability to obtain future employment and maintain a valid driver's license, as DWI convictions often result in driving privileges suspension.

In summary, when facing DWI charges as a CPA in Texas, it's essential to consider the potential consequences for your license and career, hire a qualified DWI defense attorney, understand the licensing rules, build a strong defense, and take prompt legal action to protect your interests.

AGGRESSIVE DWI DEFENSE

FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR

MEMBER OF VEHICULAR CRIMES TEAM

FREE CONSULTATION

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