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Dallas DWI Attorney
DWI & DUI Representation Serving Dallas & Surrounding Counties
Being arrested for either driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI) in Texas is a serious legal matter that requires immediate action from an experienced Dallas DWI attorney.
If you were arrested, the DUI attorneys in Dallas at Aulbaugh Law can help protect your rights and provide you with effective legal representation in and out of court.
DUI/DWI cases handled by Aulbaugh Law include:
Contact our DUI attorney in Dallas, James Aulbaugh, by calling (214) 380-3383 or sending us a message.
What to Expect for First Offense DUI & DWI Cases in Dallas
If you are facing a first-time DUI or first offense DWI charge in Dallas, understanding the legal process is essential for making informed decisions about your defense. Typically, a first offense DWI or DUI results in an arrest, followed by a bail hearing, court proceedings in Dallas County, and possible administrative license hearings. While first offenses usually have less severe consequences than subsequent DWI charges, they can still lead to fines, probation, mandatory education programs, and even jail time. Dallas courts often encourage rehabilitation for first-time offenders, but a conviction may result in a lasting criminal record and higher auto insurance premiums. As a leading DWI attorney in Dallas, Aulbaugh Law supports clients at each stage—from initial booking to courtroom hearings—emphasizing prompt legal intervention to increase opportunities for case dismissal, reduced penalties, or alternative sentencing options.
A major advantage of working with our firm is our deep understanding of Dallas County’s court procedures and the local prosecutor’s office, stemming from attorney James Aulbaugh’s role as a former Chief Felony Prosecutor. We move quickly to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing within the statutory 15-day window and vigorously contest any proposed suspension of your driver’s license. Our approach includes a thorough investigation of arrest records, field sobriety test procedures, and available video evidence to uncover procedural errors or rights violations. Dallas law enforcement is required to follow strict protocols, and any misstep may present an opportunity to challenge the case. By delivering a proactive, strategic defense, our DWI lawyer in Dallas works to secure the best possible result for clients facing their first DUI or DWI charge.
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Penalties for DWI in Texas
Penalties and long-term consequences vary depending on the situation and the court’s discretion, but may include:
- Driver’s license suspension/revocation
- Permanent criminal record
- High-risk insurance
- Jail time
- Community service
- Alcohol treatment
- Probation
- Interlock device
- Fines
Prior criminal convictions and other facts of the case may result in felony charges. For example, a third DWI will often be a felony. Felony DWI convictions carry greater consequences than misdemeanors, including prison sentences of up to 10 years, fines of as much as $10,000, and longer driver’s license suspensions.
Understanding Key Differences Between DWI & DUI With Our DWI Attorneys in Dallas
Texas issues DWI charges to adult drivers over 21 who are visibly intoxicated from alcohol, have a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or higher, or are under the influence of drugs. On the other hand, DUI charges are reserved for minors under 21 who operate a vehicle with any amount of alcohol or drugs in their system, in accordance with Texas’ Zero Tolerance policy. Depending on the circumstances, minors can also be charged as adults and receive DWI charges.
Protect Your Rights with a Dallas DWI Lawyer
It’s important to know that being arrested for a DWI or DUI does not make you guilty. The police must follow specific procedures to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt, and they must preserve your constitutional rights throughout the legal process. You have the right to hire a DWI attorney in Dallas and request a hearing within 15 days of the charge to avoid having your license suspended.
Strategies for Fighting DWI & DUI Charges in Dallas
As a former Deputy Chief of the Misdemeanor Offenses Division at the DA’s office, our Dallas DWI lawyer, James Aulbaugh, has trained over 50 prosecutors in DWI and DUI procedures. There’s a good chance he trained the prosecutor assigned to your case. You can be sure that he has the skills and experience necessary to address the relevant legal issues and expose any evidentiary weaknesses of complex DWI or DUI cases. Our firm will address both the criminal charges and the Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing that decides the status of your driver’s license.
Attorney Aulbaugh will take aggressive steps to investigate the circumstances of your arrest, including:
- Subpoenaing officers and any video surveillance to ensure they followed proper procedures
- Assessing the validity of any alcohol tests administered in the field or lab
- Determining whether law enforcement had reasonable suspicion to stop or detain you
- Determining whether the arresting officer had probable cause
How Dallas Courts Handle Drunk Driving Charges
When your DWI or DUI case enters the Dallas County court system, you can expect a series of steps designed to establish the facts of the case and reach a resolution. After your arrest, most drunk driving cases are filed with the Dallas County Clerk’s office and set for arraignment at the Frank Crowley Courts Building or one of several Dallas municipal courts. During arraignment, you and your DWI attorney in Dallas will respond to the charges, negotiate with prosecutors, and present arguments for dismissal, reduction, or other resolution. Local judges look for evidence of preparation and responsible defense management, so working with the right DWI lawyer in Dallas is critical. At Aulbaugh Law, we ensure our clients are prepared for court appearances, know what to expect, and present themselves—both in preparation and in demeanor—in a way that gives them the best possible position.
Prosecutors in Dallas carefully examine police reports, field sobriety test results, and body camera footage to determine whether to move forward or negotiate a plea. Our team’s knowledge of prosecutorial priorities and procedures means we can present legal motions and supporting evidence at the right time to achieve a favorable result. By drawing on our courtroom experience and relationships from years of practice as DWI defense attorneys in Dallas, we consistently provide insight and advocacy for our clients. Navigating Dallas courts for a DWI or DUI is complex; our objective at Aulbaugh Law is to make it as clear and manageable as possible for you.
Call us at (214) 380-3383 to schedule an initial consultation with our legal team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Difference Between a DWI and a DUI in Dallas?
In Dallas, the distinction between DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is largely based on the age of the driver and the amount of alcohol or drugs detected. DWI charges are typically filed against adults 21 or older who are found to be intoxicated with a BAC of .08% or higher or while under the influence of controlled substances. DUI charges are generally reserved for minors under 21 who operate a vehicle with any trace of alcohol or drugs, in line with Texas’ Zero Tolerance policy. While DWI penalties tend to be more severe, both can significantly affect your driving privileges, insurance rates, and permanent record. Consulting a DUI attorney in Dallas is the best way to clarify your options and fight for the most favorable outcome.
How Quickly Do I Need to Act After a DWI or DUI Arrest in Dallas?
Taking prompt action after a DWI or DUI arrest in Dallas is crucial. You have just 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing and challenge the suspension of your driver’s license. Failing to make this request within the deadline can lead to automatic suspension—even before your court date. The criminal process also moves quickly and involves several procedural steps. It's important to contact a DWI lawyer in Dallas immediately after your arrest so that we can initiate defense strategies, gather key evidence, and represent you from the outset. At Aulbaugh Law, we ensure that every deadline is met and every relevant opportunity is pursued on your behalf.
Can I Get My Drunk Driving Charge Reduced or Dismissed in Dallas?
In many cases, it is possible to have a drunk driving charge in Dallas reduced or even dismissed, depending on the specific circumstances. Opportunities for reduction or dismissal may arise due to gaps in the prosecution’s evidence, improper police procedure, or constitutional rights violations. As a seasoned DWI defense attorney Dallas clients trust, our team looks for these issues in every case and works closely with prosecutors to find alternative resolutions, particularly for first offense DUI or DWI cases. Some clients may be eligible for pretrial diversion or other court programs that could help avoid a conviction. The first step is a thorough review by an experienced DUI lawyer in Dallas to identify the best legal options for your unique situation.
Call (214) 380-3383 or send us a message using our contact form to schedule an appointment with our DUI attorneys in Dallas.