Fort Bend County Drug Related DWI Lawyer

Fort Bend County Drug Related DWI Attorney

While a DWI is often associated with alcohol consumption, driving while under the influence charges can be brought when a driver appears to be under the influence of any drug. A DWI can lead to serious penalties, including jail time, large fines, and the long-term suspension of driving privileges. If you were arrested for DWI, you should hire a Fort Bend County drug-related DWI lawyer to review your case and fight the charges.

Residents in Fort Bend County know they can rely on Segura & Kiatta to defend them. Our Fort Bend County DWI lawyers understand the hardship and stress that a drug-related DWI can cause. We can question the evidence being used against you and ensure that you are portrayed fairly in court.

Why Choose Segura & Kiatta?

Segura & Kiatta offers experienced criminal defense for drug-related DWIs in Fort Bend. With over 20 years of experience, our lead attorneys focus on protecting clients’ rights by prioritizing comprehensive defense over unfavorable plea deals. Our legal team includes a board-certified criminal defense attorney who investigates each case to challenge any potential rights violations by law enforcement.

We understand the profound impact of a criminal record, which is why our lawyers work closely with clients, offering compassionate, confidential support throughout the legal process to secure the most favorable future for each individual facing charges.

Potential Penalties for a Drug-Related DWI

Texas maintains harsh penalties for anyone found driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. First-time offenders can face $2,000 in fines, up to 180 days in jail upon conviction, with three days of jail being mandatory, and the loss of driving privileges for up to a year. A second conviction could lead to up to a year of jail time, while a third conviction could result in a minimum sentence of two years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Anyone convicted of a drug-related DWI could be required to complete a drug or alcohol education program in addition to having to pay to reinstate their driving privileges. Convicted individuals may also need to provide an SR-22 insurance certificate for two years and complete probation if ordered.

If drugs were found in your possession during your arrest, you could face additional criminal penalties. The severity of your criminal charges would depend in part on the type and amount of controlled substances found during the arrest. A drug-related DWI conviction would also result in a criminal record that could make future employment difficult.

Defense Strategies for a DWI Charge in Fort Bend County

Defending against a DWI charge related to drugs in Texas requires a comprehensive approach tailored to the specific circumstances of the case.

Here are several effective defense strategies.

• Challenge the legality of the traffic stop: Law enforcement is required to have probable cause to initiate a traffic stop. They cannot randomly pull over a car or detain someone for little to no reason. If the officer lacked reasonable suspicion that you were committing illegal activity, any evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court.
• Question the field sobriety test: Drug-related sobriety tests can be unreliable because there is no drug-related test similar to the breathalyzer tests used for alcohol consumption. Many police interactions are not recorded. If the officer was inconsistent in how they administered the test or if the results appear inconclusive, this could show there is no clear evidence that you were impaired at the time of your arrest.
• Analyze drug testing procedures: The accuracy and reliability of drug tests, including urine or blood tests, can be challenged. An attorney can investigate whether proper protocols were followed and whether the testing equipment was properly calibrated.
• Raise issues of consent: Individuals must consent to the procedure for blood tests. The results could be contested if consent was obtained under duress or without proper explanation.
• Present alternative explanations: A defense may highlight alternative reasons for erratic driving, such as medical emergencies or vehicle malfunctions, which could shift focus away from drug use. In other cases, the defendant may have had a legitimate prescription that allowed them to use the drugs they had in their possession during the arrest.
• Seek professional testimony: Engaging professionals in pharmacology or toxicology can help clarify how certain drugs affect driving and may cast doubt on the prosecution’s claims of impairment.

Drug-Related DWI FAQs

Q: How Much Does a DWI Lawyer Cost in Texas?

A: The cost of a DWI lawyer in Texas varies depending on factors like the complexity of the case, the attorney’s experience, and whether the case goes to trial. Cases involving prior offenses, accidents, or complex legal issues can lead to higher costs, while straightforward cases may be less expensive. Initial consultations with attorneys can help clients understand fees based on their specific circumstances.

Q: How Do I Beat a DWI Charge in Fort Bend County?

A: To beat a DWI charge in Fort Bend County, consider these defenses: challenge the legality of the traffic stop, question the accuracy of field sobriety tests, and scrutinize the breathalyzer or blood test procedures. An experienced attorney can identify procedural errors made by law enforcement and develop a tailored defense strategy to protect your rights.

Q: Do They Drug Test You at Court for DWI in Fort Bend County?

A: Once you are arrested and charged with a DWI, the courts can and often do require drug testing while your case is pending. Following a settlement, the terms of probation could further include requirements for mandatory drug testing. Defendants should take these tests very seriously because failing even one drug test could result in automatic detention in jail.

Q: What Are the Odds of a DWI Getting Dismissed in Fort Bend County?

A: The odds of getting a DWI dismissed go up significantly once you have legal representation. An experienced criminal defense attorney can question the evidence that is used against you or the legality of your arrest. Without an attorney, you would not have an advocate who can increase your chances of dismissing your case.

Schedule Your DWI Consultation Today

Even a first-time drug-related DWI can lead to serious penalties. If you were recently arrested for a drug-related DWI, you have important rights, including the right to legal counsel. Having a defense attorney can change the outcome of your case for the better. Our lawyers understand how to defend clients and seek favorable terms for settling their clients’ cases.

With legal representation from Segura & Kiatta, you may be able to put the entire ordeal behind you once we present your side of the story and poke holes in the prosecution’s case against you. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.