First and foremost, DWI is not eligible for deferred adjudication — has not been eligible for almost 30 years. Although there are a few counties that will consider pleading a DWI to something non-alcohol related offense (usually Reckless Driving or Obstruction of Highway), and in those instances one should strongly consider accepting a plea agreement, most counties have a policy of plea or trial. In those instances, an experienced DWI attorney who is prepared to go to trial may be your best option.
Second, and perhaps most importantly, if you think you might need a lawyer, you usually do (as I wrote a few days ago, there are some professions where you go with a professional and should not go on your own – if you had or your child had a sore tooth, you would go to the dentist and not try to take it out yourself). And never rely on your friends for obviously wrong legal advice; I would suggest you start considering meeting with an attorney to learn your options and proper method of handling your case.
DWI is perhaps the most serious of misdemeanor offenses, with significant consequences beyond just the charge and possible conviction. Depending on the outcome of a DWI, you could face reduced or restricted driving privileges, surcharges to maintain your license, increased insurance costs, and the possibility of enhanced penalties if you are ever charged with the offense again.
Additionally, depending on the circumstances of the initial arrest and whether you submitted to a breath or blood test and the result of those tests, you may have a suspended license. For more on post-DWI arrest DL issues, Arrested for DWI & They Kept My License — What Next?
If I may be of assistance, I encourage you call my office at (972) 234-8208 or email me at jwtidelljr@tidwell-law.net to set up an appointment and discuss your case.
Disclaimer The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation. I invite you to contact me and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting me does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to me until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.
