THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DUI AND DWI IN TEXAS

You may be used to hearing the terms DWI and DUI used interchangeably. After all, they seem to have very similar meanings: DWI stands for driving while intoxicated and DUI is short for driving under the influence. However, according to Texas law, there are distinct legal differences in these two terms.

What is DUI? What is DWI?

• DUI: DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is a charge reserved for minors in the state of Texas. If an individual under the age of 21 is arrested for drunk driving, he or she will face a DUI. If the charge is a misdemeanor, the underage driver will be subject to license suspension and fines, and in some cases community service, job termination and loss of privileges in school activities. Stricter penalties may apply if the minor is charged with a DUI felony.
• DWI: In Texas, if an adult operates a vehicle while having a blood alcohol level above .08 percent, they are subject to a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charge. Numerous factors will play into the penalty imposed, including percentage of blood alcohol, number of previous convictions, if a child was present in the car and if a bystander was injured due to the drunk driver.

While DWI and DUI usually refer to individuals who drive after drinking alcohol, it can also include those who operate a vehicle under the influence of drugs.

Providing Valuable Insight Into The Evidence Against You

Regardless of your drunk driving charge, it is important to get a qualified criminal defense attorney on your side right away. Even if you failed a Breathalyzer test, there are still opportunities to negotiate a plea with the state’s prosecutor. But this requires an effective lawyer who understands DWI/DUI laws inside and out.

Arlington attorney Jim Ross is a former police officer who was a part of numerous drunk driving special operations during his time as a law enforcement official. He understands how the stops are made, how evidence is obtained, the arrest procedures and how drunk drivers are prosecuted. Now, as a criminal defense lawyer, he uses this inside knowledge to help his clients mitigate the consequences of their drunk driving charges.

Texas DWI Attorney

If you have been accused, get our legal team on your side as soon as possible. Let us protect your rights and your freedom. Contact us now for a free and confidential case evaluation. Our Arlington, Texas DUI lawyers are available at 817-275-4100.

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