Can the Penalties for a DWI Conviction Be Reduced in Texas? How?

A DWI conviction can affect your freedom and future. If you’re not careful, you may face a prison sentence and pay exorbitant fines. However, if you act proactively and cautiously, you can get the penalties for your DWI conviction reduced in Texas. How? Continue reading.

1. Your Lawyer Has Excellent Investigative and Negotiation Skills

If you want to reduce your charges, find an excellent lawyer who can negotiate with the prosecution exceptionally well. They can also petition the court to reduce your charges. Based on their experience, investigative skills, and negotiation prowess, they can even get your case dismissed before it goes to trial.

However, it’s important to note that there must be a weakness in the prosecution’s case. Your lawyer will consider different aspects of the case. Let’s take a look at these in the next section.

2. Your Case Has Certain Weaknesses

If your BAC (blood alcohol concentration) test results were slightly below the .08 limit, you have a better shot at getting your conviction reduced. Even if the results are just equal to the .08 limit, your lawyer can argue that you weren’t intoxicated. If you’re charged with a first-time DWI offense and your criminal record is clean, you also have a greater chance of getting your sentence reduced.

Another critical weakness in the case is the absence of breath or blood samples. If you refused to take the chemical test, there would be no results. This can be used in your favor. Moreover, if the police failed to establish a probable cause for pulling you over or exhibited misconduct, you’ll get a better shot at having your charges reduced. Your lawyer will carefully examine your case and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

3. You Were Underage 

If you’re facing underage drunk driving charges, you can also get your charges reduced. As stated earlier, it mostly comes down to the right lawyer and the right approach. Make sure you choose your attorney carefully.

Are you looking for an experienced criminal defense attorney with a stellar track record? Attorney JL Carpenter can help you out. She has handled numerous DWI cases over the years. Once you’re ready, contact her and start working towards getting your DWI conviction reduced in Texas.

JL also works on drug possession, domestic violence, and family violence cases, among others. She practices in Friendswood, Clear Lake, League City, Galveston, and the surrounding Greater Houston area.