What If I’m Charged with DWI and BWI in the Same Week?

DWI (driving while intoxicated) and BWI (boating while intoxicated) are pretty similar charges that hold the same punishment—only one is on land (DWI) and the other is on water (BWI). If you were recently arrested for both offenses, you might feel panicked about what kind of penalties you’re facing. We’re not going to lie—being charged twice within a short amount of time is not good. But with a tenacious lawyer who offers stellar representation on your side, you stand a better chance of protecting your future and freedom. This article will help you understand what happens if you’re arrested for both DWI and BWI in the same week in Texas.

First-Offense DWI or BWI Penalties

If you committed both crimes, you will receive punishments for both. In Texas, first-offense DWI is classified as a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to $2,000 in fines and 72 hours to 180 days in jail. You will also lose your driver’s license for up to a year.

Second-Offense DWI or BWI Penalties

The fines increase to $4,000 for a second-time offense (and $10,000 for a third-time offense). Jail time increases to up to a year for second-time offenses, so now you can add up your first and second offenses, which means a total of up to $6,000 in fines and a year and a half in jail. You’ll lose your driver’s license after your first offense, so not only will you now lose it for up to two years if you’re charged with DWI for a second time, but you could be charged with driving with a suspended license.

Two Cases. Twice the Time.

Also, chances are you’ll be facing charges in two separate courts, so you have two cases going simultaneously, which means double the court visits. However, if your DWI and BWI charges are in the same county, they will be in the same court and likely before the same judge at the same time.

Your judge (or judges) may add a layer of negligence on top of your offenses, as they were committed in the same week. Plus, both DWI and BWI charges increase if you caused an accident, serious bodily injury, or death, or were driving with a minor child in the vehicle.

The judge(s) will ultimately decide whether you will serve your sentences consecutively or concurrently. This is why you need an aggressive lawyer with extensive DWI/BWI experience to represent you in both cases so that they can manage both processes. 

Call Attorney JL Carpenter Today

If you were recently charged with both DWI and BWI, focus on finding a qualified, experienced, and detail-oriented criminal defense lawyer as soon as you make bail. JL Carpenter has worked on hundreds of DWI and BWI cases. Her track record and the confidence her clients have in her speak for themselves.

Click here to schedule a consultation. JL represents clients across the Greater Houston area, including in Friendswood, Clear Lake, and League City. She defends those accused of criminal crimes including domestic violence, drug possession, family violence, and more. You can also explore her reviews here.