When people come to me after being arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), one of the first questions I hear is: “What’s the best outcome for my case?” It’s a fair question - facing a DWI charge in Texas can feel overwhelming. You’re worried about fines, jail time, losing your license, and how this could affect your future.
As a Board-Certified Criminal Defense Lawyer, I’ve handled countless DWI cases in Texas courts, and the answer is: the best outcome depends on the unique facts of your situation. But there are certain results I always strive to achieve for my clients.
Dismissal of Charges
The best possible outcome is getting your case dismissed entirely. This can happen if the police stopped you without probable cause, if the breath or blood test was handled improperly, or if your constitutional rights were violated. A dismissal means no conviction, no penalties, and no lasting impact on your record.
Not Guilty Verdict
If your case goes to trial, the next best outcome is a “Not Guilty” verdict from the jury. I focus on exposing weaknesses in the state’s case, questioning the accuracy of chemical tests, and showing jurors where reasonable doubt exists. A not guilty verdict clears your name and prevents the harsh consequences of a conviction.
Reduction of Charges
Sometimes dismissal or acquittal isn’t realistic, but that doesn’t mean the fight is over. In many cases, I negotiate for a reduction of charges - for example, from DWI down to Obstruction of a Highway or Reckless Driving. This can drastically reduce fines, keep your record cleaner, and often shorten or avoid license suspensions and jail time.
Minimizing Penalties
If a conviction is unavoidable, I shift focus to minimizing the penalties. That could mean probation instead of jail, lower fines, keeping your driver’s license, or qualifying for an occupational license so you can still get to work. I also look for programs that can shorten probation or even allow for dismissal once successfully completed.
Protecting Your Future
I never just look at the short-term outcome - I think about your future, too. In some cases, we can seek deferred adjudication** or later pursue expunction or nondisclosure to seal or clear your record. Protecting your opportunities years from now is just as important as the immediate result.
Why My Experience Matters
Every DWI case has its own challenges. Your prior history, your blood alcohol concentration, whether there was an accident, and the county where you were arrested all play a role. With my dual board certifications in Criminal Law and Criminal Appeals, I bring proven trial experience and a deep understanding of the law to fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the best outcome for a DWI? The absolute best is avoiding a conviction altogether. But even when that’s not possible, there are many strategies to reduce the consequences and protect your future.
If you’re facing a DWI charge, you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out to me, and let’s build a defense that gives you the best chance at moving forward with your life.
