Walker County Criminal Defense Attorney - What can a DWI be Reduced to in Texas?

What can a DWI be reduced to in Texas? Walker County Criminal Defense Attorney - Brian Foley

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in Texas, with severe penalties including hefty fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. However, there are certain circumstances under which a DWI charge can be reduced to a lesser offense.

In Texas, a DWI charge can be reduced to Obstructing a Highway or Reckless Driving, or even to a lower level of punishment for DWI. Let's take a closer look at each of these possibilities.

Obstructing a Highway is defined as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly obstructing a highway, street, sidewalk, railway, waterway, elevator, aisle, hallway, entrance, or exit to which the public or a substantial group of the public has access. This could include blocking a roadway, creating a hazard, or otherwise impeding the flow of traffic. Obstructing a Highway is a Class B misdemeanor in Texas, which carries a maximum penalty of 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.

Reckless Driving is defined as driving a vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. This could include weaving in and out of traffic, driving at excessive speeds, or ignoring traffic signals. Reckless Driving is a misdemeanor offense in Texas, punishable by a fine of up to $200, up to 30 days in jail, or both.

If a person has been charged with DWI for the second or third time, they may be eligible for a reduction in the level of punishment for DWI. In these cases, a person may be able to plead guilty to a lower-level offense and receive a less severe penalty than they would for a DWI conviction.

It is important to note that not all DWI charges are eligible for reduction, and the circumstances of each case will be considered by the court. Additionally, a reduction in the level of punishment for DWI does not necessarily mean that the person will avoid a criminal record or other penalties associated with a conviction.

In conclusion, a DWI charge in Texas can potentially be reduced to Obstructing a Highway, Reckless Driving, or a lower level of punishment for DWI. However, it is important to consult with a qualified attorney to understand the specific circumstances of each case and the potential consequences of a conviction or plea bargain.

www.brianfoleylaw.com 936-596-0407

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