Missouri City DWI Lawyer

Missouri City DWI Attorney

Facing a DWI accusation can stir up a range of emotions, and it’s normal to feel fear. You may worry about losing your license and how it can impact your ability to work, care for your family, or simply maintain your independence. If you are facing a DWI in Missouri City, TX, you need a Missouri City DWI lawyer.

At Segura & Kiatta, our DWI lawyers understand the gravity of drunk driving charges and the toll they can take on your life. A DWI case doesn’t just threaten your driver’s license; it jeopardizes your reputation, employment, and future opportunities. Concerns about fines, jail time, or a permanent criminal record can weigh heavily, creating a sense of dread about what lies ahead.

That’s why you need an experienced Missouri City criminal defense lawyer who can aggressively fight for your freedom. From the moment we take on your case, we are relentless.

Understanding DWI Charges in Missouri City

In Texas, driving while intoxicated (DWI) charges apply to both alcohol and drugs. In Texas,  operating any motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs is a criminal offense. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% for most drivers. However, commercial drivers face stricter limits of 0.04%, and any detectable BAC is prohibited for drivers under 21.

Penalties for DWI crimes can vary based on the circumstances, including prior convictions, BAC level, and whether an accident occurred.

Possible consequences include:

• Fines — up to $2,000 for a first offense.
• License Suspension — minimum of 90 days, which can be extended up to two years for repeat offenses.
• Jail Time — up to 180 days for a first offense, with longer sentences for subsequent violations.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) — a court-ordered breathalyzer that is installed in your vehicle.

Fighting Your Missouri City DWI Case

At Segura & Kiatta, we don’t just take on cases, we fight for lives, families, and futures. A DWI charge is not the end of the road, and we know how to challenge the evidence against you in order to seek reduced penalties.

Investigating the Traffic Stop

One of the first areas we examine is the legality of the traffic stop. Any evidence obtained during an illegal stop or detention cannot be used in court. If the police lacked probable cause to pull you over, we can fight to have the charges dismissed.

Challenging Breath and Blood Tests

Breathalyzers and blood tests are not infallible. Calibration errors, improper procedures, and contamination can all lead to unreliable results. Our DWI attorneys work with forensic experts to scrutinize the accuracy of the testing methods used for your case.

Defending Against Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests are often subjective and can be influenced by factors like medical conditions, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting. We challenge the interpretation of these tests to undermine the prosecution’s argument of impairment.

License Suspension and Administrative Hearings

One of the immediate consequences of a DWI arrest is the threat of license suspension. Under the Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Program, the Texas Department of Public Safety may suspend your license for failing—or refusing—a chemical test.

You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an ALR hearing to challenge the suspension. At Segura & Kiatta, we handle these administrative hearings with the same tenacity as criminal court proceedings and work to protect your ability to drive.

Federal DWI Charges

While most DWIs are state-level crimes, certain circumstances can elevate them to federal charges. This occurs when the offense takes place on federal property, like a national park, military base, or government-owned land. Our firm is experienced in defending clients in both state and federal jurisdictions, ensuring comprehensive representation.

Defending Against DWI with Drugs

DWI charges are not limited to alcohol. Operating a vehicle under the influence of prescription drugs, marijuana, or illegal substances can also result in severe penalties. Unlike alcohol-related cases, there is no legal threshold for drug impairment, leaving the determination up to the officer’s judgment and toxicology reports.

Our attorneys challenge drug-related DWI charges by scrutinizing the evidence, questioning the validity of drug tests, and exploring alternative explanations for the alleged impairment.

Building a Defense Against Enhanced Penalties

Though any penalty can feel like the end of the world, there are some situations where those penalties are increased.

Some of these circumstances include:

• Presence of a Child Passenger — driving while intoxicated with a child under 15 in the car is considered a felony.
• High BAC — a BAC of 0.15% or higher leads to enhanced charges.
• Injury or Death — accidents resulting in serious injury or death may lead to charges of intoxication assault or intoxication manslaughter.

At Segura & Kiatta, we tailor our defense strategy to address these specific circumstances and use everything in our arsenal to mitigate the impact of enhanced penalties.

Why Choose Segura & Kiatta?

DWI charges demand a legal team that doesn’t back down. At Segura & Kiatta, we:

• Conduct thorough investigations to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case.
• Employ expert witnesses to challenge evidence.
• Provide aggressive courtroom advocacy to protect your rights.
• Navigate the complexities of both state and federal law to deliver comprehensive representation.

Missouri City DWI Defense FAQs

Q: Can A DWI Arrest Affect My Ability to Travel Abroad?

A: Yes, a DWI conviction can impact international travel, as some countries deny entry to individuals with certain criminal records. For example, Canada may restrict entry to those with DWI convictions. If you are planning to travel but are facing DWI charges, engaging legal counsel is critical. Our attorneys can review your case and aggressively fight for your rights.

Q: What Is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), And How Does It Work?

A: An ignition interlock device (IID) is a breathalyzer that is installed in your vehicle. Its purpose is to prevent the engine from starting if it detects any alcohol on your breath. This means that in order to attempt to start the car, you must breathe into the IID. Texas courts may require this device for drivers with prior DWIs or high BAC levels as a condition of probation or license reinstatement.

Q: What Happens If I Am Arrested for DWI While on Probation?

A: A DWI arrest while on probation can result in additional charges and potential revocation of your probation. Courts take such violations seriously. Our attorneys can argue for alternative consequences, like extended probation, to avoid harsher penalties. If you find yourself in this situation, reach out to Segura & Kiatta as soon as possible.

Q: Can A Prior DWI Conviction Be Expunged in Missouri City?

A: In Missouri City, Texas, DWI convictions generally cannot be expunged. However, if your case was dismissed or you completed deferred adjudication for certain offenses, you may be eligible for a non-disclosure order. This order can seal your record from public view. If you are concerned about your DWI being a matter of public record, Segura & Kiatta can help.

Contact Our Missouri City DWI Law Firm

At Segura & Kiatta, we want you to know that you are not defined by these charges, and we are here to help you move forward.

Our role is not just to defend you in court but to provide reassurance, guidance, and unwavering support throughout this process. We are here to fight for you every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.