Dallas, TX DUI Lawyer

Being arrested for your first DUI in Dallas can be one of the most stressful and confusing experiences of your life. You’re likely filled with fear, questions, and uncertainty about what lies ahead.

As a seasoned Dallas DUI lawyer, I understand exactly what you’re going through. The most important thing to remember is this: you are not alone, and the steps you take right now will have a profound impact on your future.

This guide will help you understand the legal implications of a DUI arrest in Texas, what to expect in the days and weeks following your arrest, and how to protect yourself by hiring an experienced Dallas DUI lawyer who understands the local court system.

If you’ve been arrested for a DUI in Dallas, call 1-888-839-4384 or use our online contact form to speak with a top rated Texas DUI lawyer for a free consultation today!

Understanding the DUI Laws in Texas

In Texas, you can be arrested for driving while intoxicated if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, or if you’re impaired due to alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both; regardless of your BAC level.

Even if you feel “fine to drive,” law enforcement officers have wide discretion during traffic stops, and their judgment can lead to your arrest.

For those experiencing their first DUI in Dallas, it’s crucial to understand that an arrest is not the same as a conviction. You have legal rights, and you are entitled to fight the charges.

However, Texas law is tough on drunk driving. Without strong legal representation, you could face steep penalties—even for a first offense.

What Happens After a First DUI Arrest in Dallas?

After your arrest, you’ll likely be taken into custody, booked, and asked to submit to a chemical test (such as a breathalyzer or blood test). If your license was taken, you may be issued a temporary driving permit, and you’ll have 15 days to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to challenge the suspension.

Failing to act within this 15-day window can result in an automatic suspension of your driver’s license—regardless of the outcome of your criminal case. This is why it’s so critical to speak with a Dallas DUI lawyer immediately after your arrest.

In the days ahead, you will be required to appear in court to enter a plea. Depending on your BAC level, whether there was an accident involved, or if there were minors in the car, the charges and penalties may vary. A DUI attorney can examine the specifics of your case to determine your best defense options.

Potential Penalties for a First DUI in Dallas

Although a first-time DUI is generally classified as a Class B misdemeanor, the penalties can still be serious and far-reaching. If convicted, you may face:

• Jail time: 72 hours to 180 days (even more with aggravating factors)
• Fines: Up to $2,000, plus court costs and state surcharges
• License suspension: 90 days to one year
• Community service: Between 24 and 100 hours
• Mandatory DWI education program 
• Installation of an ignition interlock device, depending on the circumstances 

Beyond legal penalties, a DUI conviction can have long-term consequences. It can damage your employment prospects, increase your auto insurance premiums, and leave a permanent mark on your criminal record.

Why You Need a Dallas DUI Lawyer Immediately

If you’re dealing with your first DUI in Dallas, navigating the legal process without the help of a skilled attorney is risky. An experienced Dallas DUI lawyer can analyze the circumstances of your arrest, challenge any weaknesses in the state’s evidence, and work to reduce or even dismiss the charges when possible.

Some common defenses we may explore include:

• Lack of probable cause for the traffic stop 
• Inaccurate field sobriety or breathalyzer test results 
• Improperly administered sobriety tests 
• Violations of your constitutional rights 

Your lawyer can also help you understand the difference between fighting your case in criminal court and the administrative license suspension process—which is handled separately through the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Having local knowledge of Dallas County courts, prosecutors, and judges is essential. As a local attorney with years of experience handling DWI cases here, I can provide you with the strategic advantage needed to secure a more favorable outcome.

What You Should Do Right Now

If you’ve been arrested for your first DUI in Dallas, don’t wait to take action.

Every hour that passes could affect your case; especially when it comes to protecting your driving privileges. Here are the immediate steps you should take:

1. Contact a Dallas DUI lawyer right away to discuss your case and legal options. 
2. Request an ALR hearing within 15 days of your arrest to contest your license suspension. 
3. Document everything you remember about the traffic stop and arrest while it’s still fresh in your mind. 
4. Avoid speaking to police or prosecutors without your attorney present. 

Which Court Handles DUI Cases in Dallas, Texas?

If you’ve been arrested for a DUI in Dallas, Texas, your case will typically be processed through the Dallas County criminal court system, depending on the specific law enforcement agency that made the arrest and whether you were charged with a misdemeanor or felony.

Misdemeanor DUI Cases

Most first-time DUI arrests in Dallas are classified as Class B or Class A misdemeanors, especially if there are no aggravating circumstances (such as a high BAC, a child passenger, or an accident involving injury). In these cases, your case will likely be filed in one of the Dallas County Criminal Courts at Law, which are located at: