Driving While Intoxicated
DWI Defense Attorney in McKinney
Driving While Intoxicated Charges call for serious defense
Driving While Intoxicated charge in Texas is a serious criminal offense that can have long-lasting consequences. If you have been arrested for DWI in McKinney, you need an experienced DWI defense attorney who can protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Our firm represents people who have been arrested for DWI in Dallas County, Collin County, Tarrant County and other surrounding counties.
What Should You Do After a DWI Arrest in McKinney?
If you have been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in McKinney or elsewhere in Collin County, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible.
A DWI conviction may result in:
- Jail time.
- Significant fines and court costs.
- Suspension of your driver’s license.
- A permanent criminal record that can affect your future employment and other opportunities.
An experienced McKinney DWI lawyer can review the facts of your arrest, evaluate whether law enforcement followed proper procedures, identify potential legal defenses, and represent you throughout the criminal justice process.
How a DWI Arrest Can Affect Your Driving Privileges
Your arrest for DWI can have an immediate impact. Depending on the evidence gathered by the police, you could have a driver’s license suspension, an ignition interlock device installed on your car, and be subject to further bond conditions ordered by the court. Our firm can walk you through the bond process and even file your application for an Occupational Driver’s License.
How Our McKinney DWI Attorney Can Help
Every DWI case is different, and the outcome often depends on the facts surrounding the arrest. Our firm can:
- Review whether the traffic stop was lawful
- Evaluate field sobriety, breath, or blood test procedures
- Examine police reports and available body camera or dash camera footage
- Assist with Occupational Driver’s License applications when eligible
- Represent clients throughout negotiations and court proceedings
- Prepare a strong defense if the case proceeds to trial
DWI can be a subjective crime based on the opinions and observations of the police. There are numerous defenses to driving while intoxicated. When you hire the experienced attorneys at the Law Offices of Chris Fredericks, you will get a full legal and factual analysis of your case.
Evidence Commonly Used in Texas DWI Cases
A prosecutor may rely on several types of evidence when pursuing a DWI charge, including officer observations, field sobriety test results, breath or blood test results, dash camera or body camera footage, witness statements, and other evidence collected during the investigation. Carefully reviewing this evidence may reveal weaknesses or procedural errors that could strengthen your defense.
Our firm can identify potential legal defenses associated with the investigation that may limit the admissible evidence in your case. Even if convicted of DWI, our firm will work hard to get you the best resolution, including avoiding jail or prison time, a shorter probation period, less community service hours, and lower fines. Call us at 469-217-3672 to discuss your case.
Penalties for a First DWI Charge in McKinney, Texas
An initial DWI first charge is a class B misdemeanor offense with a range of punishment between 72 hours and 180 days in jail and a fine not to exceed $2,000.00. If the police found and open container of alcohol, the minimum jail sentence is raised to 6 days in jail from 72 hours. If it is proven that you have an alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher, the offense is raised to a class A misdemeanor with a punishment range of 0 to 1 year in jail and a fine not to exceed $4,000.00. A conviction for driving while intoxicated will also lead to annual driver’s license surcharges from the Texas Department of Public Safety. If this is not your first DWI arrest, you may be subject to more severe consequences associated with enhanced penalties for repeat DWI offenders.
What Happens After a DWI Arrest in Texas?
After a DWI arrest, you may face several legal proceedings, including booking, bond conditions, driver’s license suspension proceedings, court appearances, negotiations with prosecutors, and, if necessary, trial. Having experienced legal representation early in the process can help protect your rights, preserve important evidence, and explore available defense strategies before critical deadlines pass.
Serving Clients Throughout Collin County
The Law Offices of Chris Fredericks represents individuals charged with Driving While Intoxicated in McKinney, Plano, Allen, Frisco, Prosper, Celina, Melissa, Anna, Princeton, Fairview, Murphy, Wylie, and throughout Collin County and the surrounding North Texas communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About DWI in McKinney
What should I do after a DWI arrest in McKinney?
If you are arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in McKinney, remain calm and avoid making statements that could affect your case. Comply with lawful instructions, document what you remember about the traffic stop and arrest, and contact an experienced DWI defense attorney as soon as possible. Early legal representation can help protect your rights and evaluate potential defenses.
Can a first-time DWI charge be dismissed in Texas?
A first-time DWI charge may be dismissed in certain situations, depending on the facts of the case. If there are legal issues involving the traffic stop, field sobriety testing, breath or blood testing, or other evidence, your attorney may be able to challenge the prosecution’s case. Every case is different, so it is important to have the evidence thoroughly reviewed.
Will I lose my driver’s license after a DWI arrest?
A DWI arrest may result in the suspension of your driving privileges, depending on the circumstances of your case. However, you may have the right to challenge the suspension, and some drivers may qualify for an Occupational Driver’s License that allows limited driving for work, school, or essential household duties.
What happens if I refuse a breath or blood test in Texas?
Refusing a breath or blood test may lead to an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) proceeding and possible driver’s license suspension under Texas implied consent laws. In some cases, law enforcement may still obtain a warrant for a blood sample. An attorney can explain how a refusal may affect your case and discuss your legal options.
What evidence is commonly used in a Texas DWI case?
Evidence in a DWI case may include the arresting officer’s observations, field sobriety test results, breath or blood test results, dash camera or body camera footage, witness statements, and other evidence collected during the investigation. An attorney can review this evidence to identify potential legal or procedural issues.
Can I get an Occupational Driver’s License after a DWI arrest?
Some individuals whose licenses have been suspended following a DWI arrest may qualify for an Occupational Driver’s License. This type of license allows limited driving privileges for approved purposes, such as work, school, or essential household responsibilities. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the case and applicable Texas law.
How long does a DWI stay on my record in Texas?
A DWI conviction can remain on your criminal record unless you qualify for a legal remedy such as nondisclosure or another form of relief available under Texas law. Whether you are eligible depends on factors such as the outcome of your case and your criminal history. An attorney can explain your options.
Why should I hire a DWI defense attorney in McKinney?
A DWI conviction can have lasting consequences, including fines, jail time, driver’s license suspension, higher insurance costs, and a permanent criminal record. An experienced McKinney DWI defense attorney can review the evidence, identify potential defenses, protect your constitutional rights, and work toward the best possible outcome based on the facts of your case.
Contact the firm online or at 469-712-5741 to learn more.