By Jeff Kennedy
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in the state of Texas, and it is going to cost you in more ways than one. For this reason, it is paramount that you look into retaining legal representation to defend you in court, as your future is on the line.
Continue reading to learn more about the various monetary costs you can expect to pay if you are found guilty of a DWI in Texas and the various other ways you’ll pay for a DWI conviction on your record.
Monetary Costs of a DWI Conviction
There are several fees that you may have to pay if you are found guilty of a DWI in Texas. The amounts will vary based on the number of DWIs you have on your record, how high your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels allegedly were at the time of your arrest, and whether anyone was injured or killed due to your drunk driving.
To start, fines can be anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000. You can also expect to be required to pay for the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle. This device will prevent you from being able to drive your vehicle without having to blow into a Breathalyzer at BAC levels of less than 0.08%.
In addition, you may also have to pay to participate in a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program, take time off work to complete community service hours, and pay an annual Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) license surcharge fee of up to $2,000 annually for up to three years.
Other Ways Your Life Can Be Impacted If You’re Found Guilty
But a DWI can cost you in other ways that have nothing to do with fines or fees. You could find yourself unable to obtain federal student loans if you hoped to go back to school. You’ll struggle to secure gainful employment due to your criminal background report. You may even have a hard time finding a safe, cost-friendly place to live due to your criminal conviction. With fewer places to live and fewer ways to support yourself financially, a guilty DWI verdict could seriously upend your life in Fort Worth.
Furthermore, a DWI is embarrassing, and your family and friends may be upset or not want to associate with you altogether if you are convicted. For these reasons, it is critical that you consider getting help defending yourself in court. Your lawyer may be able to help you obtain a plea agreement to lessen the penalties or even present a defensive strategy that could clear your name of all charges.
Get Help from a DWI Lawyer in Fort Worth
To learn more about how an experienced Fort Worth DWI lawyer could help you defend yourself in court and possibly even avoid a conviction that could ruin your life, schedule a no-obligation case review at The Law Offices of Jeff C. Kennedy. Our firm can be reached through the quick contact form we have included below or by phone at 817-605-1010 when you are ready to get started on your Fort Worth case.
