How Long Will a DWI Conviction Stay on My Record in Texas?

By Jeff Kennedy

How Long Will a DWI Conviction Stay on My Record in Texas?

The state of Texas takes the crime of driving while intoxicated (DWI) very seriously—so seriously that prosecutors sometimes treat those arrested for DWI unfairly, punishing them more harshly than the crime demands.

If you’re facing a conviction for drunk driving, you may be worried about this question: How long will a DWI conviction stay on my record in Texas? Unless you’re able to get the offense expunged, the answer is likely to be forever.

Avoiding a conviction is in your very best interest. Once a drunk driving offense is on your record, it can never be erased, except under extremely specific circumstances. You may believe there’s no way you can get your charges dismissed or reduced, but defenses against conviction are available. Read on to learn more.

Defenses Against Texas DWI Charges

A good DWI defense attorney knows how to analyze every detail of your case, including the police report, witness statements, and your account of what happened, to formulate the best defense for you.

Here are some examples of defenses your attorney can use to keep a DWI conviction off your record.

  • You weren’t actually drinking but were taking a prescription medication.
  • You weren’t driving at all.
  • Someone was using your identity.
  • You were drinking but you weren’t over the legal limit.
  • There was a mistake with your lab work.
  • The accuracy of the field sobriety test is questionable.
  • The police officer who arrested you violated your rights or made procedural errors.

The Penalties for a DWI Conviction in Texas

Aside from the consequences of having a criminal record, which could mean your job prospects will be severely limited, you will also face legal penalties if convicted of a drunk driving offense. Even a first-offense DWI will get you a license suspension, a fine, and up to 180 days in jail. It just gets worse from there.

Get in Touch with a Fort Worth DWI Lawyer

Now you know how long a DWI conviction will stay on your record in Texas. And now is the time to fight a conviction—your life will be a lot easier without a DWI on your record. Is a dismissal really possible? You have a much better chance of getting a dismissal or reduction with a DWI attorney on your team.

To contact the Law Offices of Jeff C. Kennedy, simply fill out the online contact form below or call 817-605-1010.

WHAT DO OUR CLIENTS HAVE TO SAY?

Jeff C. Kennedy was the light of hope at the end of very dark storm. He was not only able to defend my case swiftly, but had the alleged charges dismissed completely. His calm and empathetic demeanor offered emotional succor to myself and those I care about most. My children and I are eternally grateful for his excellent service and I hereby recommend Jeff C. Kennedy without reservation.

Kishta

Jeff Kennedy truly cares. He and his staff kept me informed all the way throughout my case and provided me with all my options and the potential outcomes for my case. When the day finally arrived to resolve my case, Jeff was able to negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge. He was well prepared and coordinated everything perfectly. Jeff is not only a good lawyer, but a good man.

N.C.L.

I hired Mr. Jeff Kennedy to handle a DWI charge. From day one, I knew I had picked the right attorney. Jeff always took the time to answer any of my questions, treated me very professionally, and truly cared about my case. I have never been in any kind of trouble before and I was very nervous about the thought of going to trial. Jeff thoroughly explained the entire process to me and made me feel at ease. Jeff took my case to trial and the jury found me NOT GUILTY!

P.T.S.

Jeff Kennedy is a professional, intelligent, easy-to-talk-to lawyer with an excellent understanding of how the system works. Jeff was able to get my twice the legal limit BAC thrown out and he kept me from having an interlock device put on my car. This has been my only big mistake in life so far (hopefully the last) and I am glad he was there to walk me through it. You will not regret hiring him.

Anonymous
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS
PRINCIPAL OFFICE
9133 Belshire Dr
North Richland Hills,
Texas 76182
FORT WORTH
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
301 W Vickery Blvd Suite #101
Fort Worth, Texas 76104
ARLINGTON
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
303 W Abram St
Arlington,
Texas 76010
Back To Top