Voted Top DWI Lawyer in North Texas
Over 400 DWI Trials with High Rates of Success
Board Certified in DWI Defense by NCDD
28+ Years Of Experience
How Expensive is a DWI in Texas?
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Texas is no small matter. Beyond the immediate consequences of being pulled over and arrested, the financial ramifications can be staggering. If you’re wondering how expensive a DWI can be in Texas, prepare yourself for a deep dive into the costs associated with this serious offense.
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Immediate Legal Costs
First things first: hiring a lawyer. While some might try to navigate the legal system on their own, it’s highly advisable to seek professional legal representation. Attorney fees for a DWI in Texas can range widely based on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the geographical location. On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000. If your case goes to trial or involves multiple offenses, the costs can climb even higher.
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Court Fines and Fees
Once convicted, you’ll face fines mandated by the court. For a first-time DWI offense, the fines can range from $2,000 to $4,000. However, if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is over 0.15%, or if you have prior convictions, fines can be higher. Additionally, there are court costs and administrative fees that can add another few hundred dollars to your tab.
Ignition Interlock Devices
In Texas, if you’re convicted of a DWI, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. This device tests your BAC before allowing the engine to start. Installation and maintenance of these devices can be costly, with initial installation fees ranging from $70 to $150, plus monthly service fees of $60 to $80. These costs can add up significantly over time.
Increased Insurance Premiums
Perhaps one of the most enduring financial impacts of a DWI conviction is the increase in your car insurance premiums. After a DWI, you can expect your rates to rise dramatically, often by as much as 50% to 100%. This increase can last for several years, making your insurance premiums a significant ongoing expense.
License Suspension and Related Costs
A DWI conviction in Texas often results in a suspension of your driver’s license. Reinstating your license involves paying a reinstatement fee, which can be up to $125. If your license is suspended for an extended period, you might also incur costs related to alternative transportation, which can add up over time.
Probation and Community Service
If you’re sentenced to probation, you’ll likely face additional costs related to complying with the terms of your probation. These might include regular meetings with a probation officer, drug or alcohol education programs, and community service. The costs for these programs can vary but often run into the hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Potential for Higher Future Costs
A DWI conviction can have long-term financial repercussions. In addition to increased insurance premiums, you might face higher costs for other types of insurance and even future employment opportunities, as a DWI can affect job prospects, especially if a clean driving record is a requirement.
Mimi Coffey is Board-certified Fort Worth DWI Defense Lawyer by the National College of DUI Defense
I am a DWI lawyer with 28+ years of experience and the founder of The Coffey Firm, which specializes in DWI and Criminal Defense. My firm handles a wide range of cases, ranging from class B misdemeanors up to 1st degree felony offenses. Mimi Coffey is board certified by the National College of DUI Defense (NCDD) and listed on several top directories such as Fort Worth DWI Lawyers, Dallas DWI/DUI Attorneys, Tarrant County Top DWI lawyers and Dallas Top DWI Attorney.
The Coffey Firm has abundant experience with DWI cases. We also have a track record of successful trial outcomes in Dallas County, Tarrant County, and Wise County Courts. For a DWI or any criminal case, call 817-831-3100 to schedule a free DWI consultation with our experienced Fort Worth DWI defense law firm.
What to do After a DWI Arrest? Call the North Texas DWI Defense Lawyers at The Coffey Firm Today!
When you face a DWI arrest in North Texas it can be scary, intimidating, and exhausting. Therefore, throughout this DWI process of your case, you will want a caring, knowledgeable, and hard-working team on your side. Because of that, The Coffey Firm commits itself to helping you through this DWI process.
Each of our attorneys work hands-on to ensure that you will feel comfortable and aware of all of your options. Our confidential evaluations are also free, all you need to do is call us now at 817-831-3100