First DWI in TX.

[cab1]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Texas...

My first DWI in Texas...no past criminal history, other than traffic tix...DWI first offens for TX.; fine up to $2000, 72hours to 180 days in jail, 90 days to 1 year license suspension.


Need driver's license for job....Project Planner/ Engineer, need DL for transportation/ mobility purposes.

Didn't want to use attorney, was told I could offer DA; a fine of $250, time served for 1 day in day in jail + 40 hours of community service/ possible probation to offset jail time; point reduction on driver's license instead of suspension. Is this offer possible? Can this charge be removed after 1 year without further vehicular moving violations?

[FlyingRon]

An occupational license is a possibility even with a suspension. I don't think there's any mandatory hard suspension time in Texas.

Your best chance for a plea bargain will be to let a lawyer do it but they do seem quite possible in Texas.

[CavemanLawyer]

Actually there is a mandatory hard DL suspension for a DWI conviction unless you receive probation, in which case the suspension is also probated for the term of the probation. Even if suspended, you can absolutely apply for an occupational license though.

You should really think twice about just walking in unrepresented and taking a DWI conviction. Convictions in Texas are permanent. It will never be off of your criminal history and it will always be visible on your driving record as well. A DWI conviction will likely carry a fine, higher than normal court costs (~$300-$400) and will impose a $1000 surcharge for three years (total $3,000.) You can absolutely expect higher insurance rates for years to come as well.

You should get an attorney and at least try to plea bargain to another offense. Weaker DWI cases are often refiled/amended to obstruction of a highway or reckless driving or in some cases even public intoxication. Any of these are much better than DWI even if you receive the same punishment.