The cost of a DWI lawyer in Texas can vary depending on the lawyer’s experience, location, reputation, and the complexity of the case. 

For a simple DWI case that doesn’t go to trial, you can expect to pay between $5,000 to $10,000. Some lawyers will charge extra for a trial or an ALR hearing (we don’t).  

Generally speaking, you get what you pay for, and often a more expensive lawyer saves you money in the long run. Read on to find out why.

Expenses Associated with a DWI in Texas

Selecting a “cheap” lawyer for your DWI case can end up costing you more if you lose in court. A DWI conviction can generate $20,000 or more in fines, fees, and penalties, and the collateral consequences reach even further. For example, a conviction can impact your employment status and reduce your chances of securing a position with better pay, reducing your future income as well as costing you in the present.

When estimating the total cost of a DWI, you’ll need to factor in the following fees:

• Court and administration costs
• Bail bonds
• Legal (lawyer) fees
• Penalty fees (DWI punishment)
• Restitution fees
• Probation fees
• Ignition interlock device installation
• Increased insurance rate
• Impound lot fees

Do Lawyers Bill for Phone Conversations?

Some lawyers will charge you an hourly rate. That means that each time you have a question or want an update, the cost of your DWI case rises. Furthermore, you may often be passed on to legal secretaries and assistants when you’d rather speak to the lawyer handling your case.

When you trust Michael & Associates with your DWI case, you’ll get a direct number that you can use to get access to your lawyer at any time—day or night.    

Is Legal Representation Necessary for a DWI in Texas?

Legal representation is crucial if you want to get your DWI charges dismissed or reduced. DWI offenses are taken extremely seriously in Texas, and convictions come with harsh penalties.

No one can force you to seek legal representation, but before you decide against it, you should be entirely aware of what you’re up against—especially the potential consequences of a conviction.

DWI Penalties

First offense (Class B misdemeanor)

• A fine of up to $2,000
• Up to 180 days in jail
• Driver’s license suspension for up to 1 year

Second Offense (Class A misdemeanor)

• A fine of up to $4,000
• Up to one year in jail
• Driver’s license suspension for up to 2 years

Third Offense (Third-degree felony)

• A fine of up to $10,000
• Two to 10 years in prison
• Driver’s license suspension for up to 2 years

DWI With a Child Passenger (State jail felony)

• Child endangerment charges
• A fine of up to $10,000
• Up to 2 years in jail
• Driver’s license suspension for a further 180 days

Open Container (Class C misdemeanor)

In Texas, it is illegal to possess an open container of alcohol in your vehicle, even if you aren’t drinking and driving. You can be charged separately for each incident of an open container. For example, if three of your friends were drinking in the car when you were pulled over, you can be charged for three open containers.

• A fine of up to $500 per open container

State Court Fines

If convicted, the court will also issue a state fine. The exact amount will be decided during sentencing, but it will be $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000.

Criminal Record

A conviction for a first-time DWI with no aggravating factors is still a criminal conviction. It will remain on your record permanently and show up every time someone runs a background check on you. Regardless of whether it’s right or wrong, potential employers will almost always choose someone with a clean record over a convicted criminal.

Furthermore, a DWI record can stop you from receiving some professional licenses, make it challenging to secure a loan or accommodation, and even prevent you from getting into your preferred college.

With all of this in mind, having an experienced DWI attorney fighting your side is essential if you wish to avoid the above penalties. A skilled lawyer will significantly reduce your chances of being hit with the harshest punishments.

How to Hire the Best Affordable DWI Lawyer in Texas

The “cheapest” lawyer isn’t always the most affordable, as they can cost you more in the long run. Instead of shortlisting your options by the lowest-priced, investigate the following points for each candidate:

• Ask About Experience: Look for a lawyer with experience in DWI cases. More specifically, find a DWI attorney with a string of successful DWI cases under their belt. Good lawyers will be transparent and willing (where client confidentiality allows them) to discuss their past cases, including their wins and losses.
  
• Seek Excellent Communication: Legal cases are stressful! If you are facing DWI charges and you’re like most people, you will probably experience more than a few sleepless nights. With this in mind, try to team up with a lawyer who is easy to get hold of and who will take the time to answer your questions and communicate with you about the progress of your case.
  
• Read Client Reviews: Read reviews from previous clients, preferably ones from DWI defendants, to understand how well the lawyer worked for others. If they have a good reputation amongst their previous clients, they will likely work hard for you, too.

Reviews and experience aside, you also need to find a lawyer you can get along with. Before hiring an attorney, ask yourself if you feel comfortable speaking with them.

At Michael & Associates, we know that finding the right lawyer will give you the best chance of success in getting your DWI case dismissed or reduced. That’s why we offer a free case review, giving us—and potential clients—the chance to have an open and honest discussion without obligation.

Is Dismissal of a DWI Possible in Texas?

Yes, in fact we do it all the time.  

But going back to the point of cost, chances of dismissal go up when you have a knowledgeable, experienced defense lawyer on your side. Not only is DWI dismissal a possibility, but it is also an outcome Michael & Associates has secured for many clients.

Not all DWI cases can be dismissed, but where dismissal isn’t an option, a skilled lawyer will fight for lowered charges and a better overall outcome with reduced punishment.

Effective Strategies for Successfully Contesting a DWI in Texas

Challenging DWI charges involves combing through all the evidence and witness testimonies to find flaws in the case against you. Some common strategies used to beat DWI charges include:

• Challenging the reason for the stop: If the police did not have reasonable suspicion to stop you, any evidence gathered would not be admissible in court.
  
• Challenging the reason for your arrest: Police officers must establish probable cause before making an arrest or searching your vehicle for evidence. If you are arrested without probable cause, the evidence gathered will not be admissible in court.
  
• Challenging the administration of SFSTs and their results: Field sobriety tests can be highly subjective and inaccurate. A person’s performance in the tests can be influenced by many factors—only one of which is intoxication.
  
• Challenging the reliability of tests: Breathalyzers must be regularly calibrated, and tests should be administered by trained officers. Improper use of the device, and flaws with the device itself, can cause false positives.

Above are just a few examples of common strategies used in DWI cases, but every case is unique, and a great lawyer will tailor your strategy to suit your individual circumstances.

Best Strategy to Reduce Costs from a DWI Charge in Texas

The number one strategy you can implement to avoid getting hit with the highest DWI costs is to hire a reliable, experienced, and skilled DWI lawyer.

When it comes to DWI convictions, it’s not just the financial costs that can permanently impact your life but also the collateral consequences. Don’t let a DWI ruin your reputation, career, and chances of a bright future. Booking your free case review with Michael & Associates today won’t cost you anything, but it might save your future. Book your free case review online now.