A conviction of DWI in Galveston may have much farther-reaching effects than just fines or temporary suspension of your license. It can affect your career, finances, and even your personal life in ways most people hardly fathom until it’s too late. Understanding these possible results will prepare you for what is in store and the steps that you need to take to protect your future.
Immediately Appearing Legal Consequences of a DWI Conviction
If charged with and convicted of driving while intoxicated in Galveston, Houston, or anywhere in Texas, the legal consequences include fines, imprisonment, probation, and compulsory education or treatment.
The fines for a first offense can reach $2,000, and your license may be suspended for as many as 90 days.
The penalties for repeat offenses are much stronger, including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and requirements of an ignition interlock device. The severity of the listed consequences obviously also depends on how skillful your Galveston DWI lawyer is.
How a DWI Conviction Affects Your Career
A drunk driving conviction will impact your professional reputation and job opportunities. Some employers check backgrounds from time to time, and conviction may lead to termination or problems in finding a job in the future.
For those in professions requiring special licensing, a DWI can lead to a suspension or revocation of licenses. An experienced Galveston DWI lawyer can help mitigate these career-damaging effects by navigating the legal process to reduce charges or penalties.
Financial Costs of a DWI Conviction
The financial penalties for a DWI are severe. Aside from the fines and lawyer costs, you will also face higher car insurance. You could see your insurance rates triple from what you are paying now. You may be required to have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle, which would have installation and monthly service costs as well.
Personal Consequences
Family relations and reputation could deteriorate even further with a DWI conviction. If publicized, these cases result in possible social stigma, embarrassment, isolation, or changes for the family, which is very specifically noted as one in which sentencing or a loss of driving privileges would hamper daily activities and responsibilities.
Protecting Your Future After a DWI Charge
While the penalties for a conviction of DWI are severe, they are not absolute. In fact, a skilled Houston drunk driving attorney such as Tad A. Nelson can drastically improve your chances of minimizing or even altogether avoiding the resulting penalties. A Houston DWI attorney can thoroughly investigate the presented evidence, file motions to suppress improper police practices, and possibly negotiate alternative sentences.
Contact a Trusted Galveston DWI Attorney
Call The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates Today!
Don’t let a DWI conviction define your future. If you or someone you know is facing DWI charges in Houston, it’s essential to act quickly. Explore our Law Practice page for more information about Tad A. Nelson and his approach to defending DWI cases.
Take the first step toward protecting your rights—Contact Us today or call 409-904-0075 to schedule a consultation with a Houston drunk driving attorney.
