First-Time DWI Charge in Texas: Defense Attorneys Explain How Charges Escalate
Key Takeaways A first-time DWI in Texas starts as a Class B misdemeanor but can quickly escalate to felony charges with specific aggravating factors. Blood alcohol content of 0.15% or higher automatically elevates a first offense to a Class A misdemeanor with harsher penalties. Having a child under 15 in the vehicle turns any DWI into an instant state jail felony - regardless of prior record Hidden costs like annual $1,000 state surcharges for three years can triple the financial impact beyond court fines. Understanding these escalation triggers helps defendants and families prepare for aggressive prosecution strategies with the help of criminal defense attorneys. Texas treats driving while intoxicated charges with zero tolerance, especially in counties like Lubbock. There, prosecutors aggressively pursue maximum penalties. That's bad news. And here's what many first-time offenders don't realize - just how quickly their "simple" misdemeanor can turn into serious f...