Felony DUI

Odessa Felony DWI Attorney

Defend Your Record. Secure Your Future. Contact Us Today

Facing a felony DWI in Odessa can be overwhelming, and the legal ramifications are serious. With severe penalties like imprisonment, hefty fines, and a lasting criminal record, understanding the intricacies of your defense is crucial. At Sarabia Law Firm, we strive to provide detailed guidance and support, ensuring that you make informed decisions about your future with a felony DWI lawyer in Odessa.

Speak with a skilled Odessa felony DWI attorney today. Call (432) 224-8036 now or contact us online to schedule your free legal consultation and start building your defense.

What Makes a DWI a Felony in Texas?

In Texas, most first-time DWI offenses are classified as misdemeanors. However, certain aggravating circumstances can elevate a DWI to a felony. 

Common factors that result in felony DWI charges include:

  • Third or subsequent DWI: A third DWI offense is a third-degree felony in Texas, carrying steep penalties.
  • DWI with a child passenger: Driving under the influence with a passenger under 15 years old is an automatic state jail felony.
  • Intoxication assault: Causing serious bodily injury while driving intoxicated elevates the offense to a third-degree felony.
  • Intoxication manslaughter: Causing death while operating a vehicle under the influence is a second-degree felony.

Each of these charges requires a proactive and aggressive defense from a knowledgeable Odessa felony DWI attorney who knows how to navigate the complexities of Texas criminal law.

What are the Penalties For a Felony DWI in Texas?

Felony DWI penalties are harsh and long-lasting. Texas courts do not take these offenses lightly, especially when prior convictions or victims are involved.

Here is a breakdown of typical penalties based on offense level:

Third-Degree Felony (e.g., third DWI, intoxication assault):

  • 2 to 10 years in prison
  • Up to $10,000 in fines
  • License suspension up to 2 years
  • Ignition interlock device required
  • Mandatory alcohol education or treatment program

Second-Degree Felony (e.g., intoxication manslaughter):

  • 2 to 20 years in prison
  • Fines up to $10,000
  • Permanent criminal record
  • Potential restitution to victims' families
  • Extended license suspension

State Jail Felony (e.g., DWI with child passenger):

  • 180 days to 2 years in state jail
  • Fines up to $10,000
  • Child endangerment implications

How Does a Felony DWI Affect Your Life?

Being convicted of a felony DWI has far-reaching implications that go well beyond time in jail, such as:

  • Employment challenges: Many employers refuse to hire individuals with a felony record.
  • Housing limitations: Landlords may deny housing applications from those with criminal backgrounds.
  • Loss of professional licenses: Nurses, teachers, pilots, and other licensed professionals can face revocation.
  • Child custody complications: A felony conviction can impact parental rights in family court.
  • Gun ownership restrictions: Felons lose the right to possess firearms in Texas and under federal law.

The sooner you involve an Odessa felony DWI lawyer, the more options you may have to fight the charges and minimize long-term damage.

 

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Local Insights for Stronger Defense

One of your greatest advantages is working with a firm that understands the Odessa community's unique dynamics. Our attorneys at Sarabia Law Firm are native residents, deeply familiar with the local legal landscape and community nuances. This intimate knowledge allows us to craft a DWI defense strategy that is specifically tailored to the legal climate of Odessa, giving you a distinct edge in your defense.

Additionally, our local insight extends to an understanding of commonly traversed routes and roads where DWI arrests frequently occur. Highways such as Interstate 20 and key local spots are areas we are well-acquainted with, allowing us to gather supportive evidence relevant to the unique traffic patterns and conditions in Odessa. This awareness and context can be pivotal in building a solid defense, whether it involves challenging the validity of the traffic stop or the accuracy of field sobriety tests conducted on uneven, poorly-lit roads. The geographical advantage coupled with legal acumen positions us as a formidable ally in the face of felony DUI charges.

What Should I Do After a Felony DWI Arrest in Odessa?

Time is of the essence after a DWI arrest. Taking prompt action can significantly influence the outcome of your legal proceedings:

  1. Secure Legal Representation: Contact a felony DWI defense attorney in Odessa immediately for a consultation.
  2. Document the Incident: Gather and maintain all related documents and any details or witnesses that may support your case.
  3. Abide by Legal Protocols: Understand your rights, but also adhere to any legal instructions given by authorities.

Each of these steps is vital in building a defense and ensuring you are prepared for the road ahead.

Understanding the timeline and critical deadlines in a DWI charge can also be crucial. For instance, in Texas, a driver has a limited period (typically 15 days from the arrest) to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to contest the suspension of their driver's license. Missing this crucial deadline can mean automatic suspension. At Sarabia Law Firm, we ensure that all critical deadlines are met, and every necessary administrative step is taken to fortify your defense from all angles.

Why Choose Sarabia Law Firm, Your Advocate in Odessa?

At Sarabia Law Firm, we are committed to leveraging modern technology and thorough communication to provide personalized legal representation. Here’s what clients can expect when working with us:

  • Personalized Attention: Each client's situation is unique, requiring a bespoke approach rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
  • Open Communication: We prioritize transparency and keep you informed at every stage of your defense process.
  • Free Consultations: Before making any decisions, our complimentary consultations help you assess your needs and every potential avenue for defense.

Our approach ensures that the defense strategy is comprehensive and considers every possible angle in your case.

By adopting the latest legal technologies, we streamline our processes, making your interactions with us more efficient and effective. From secure digital communication platforms to virtual meetings, we ensure that geography and mobility don't limit our ability to deliver top-tier defense services. This commitment not only enhances our accessibility but also ensures that every piece of evidence and documentation is securely managed and available for real-time review and collaboration between our team and clients. This technological edge is part of what makes Sarabia Law Firm a leader in modern defense practices in Odessa.

Contact Sarabia Law Firm: Your First Step Towards Resolution

Tackling a felony DWI charge alone is daunting, but you don't have to face it without support. At Sarabia Law Firm, we invite you to take the vital step of contacting us for a free consultation. 

Our commitment to our clients ensures you receive the personalized and dedicated legal representation you deserve with a felony DWI lawyer in Odessa. Reach out today at (432) 224-8036 to start the conversation and take control of your defense journey.

Take the First Step Towards Your Defense
When your future is on the line, we're here to help. Protect your rights by contacting us now for a free consultation: (432) 224-8036.

Frequently Asked Questions About Felony DWI in Odessa

What Differentiates a Felony DWI from a Misdemeanor DWI in Odessa?

A felony DWI in Odessa typically involves circumstances that significantly elevate the offense's severity. This includes having multiple previous DWI convictions, injuring or killing another person while driving under the influence, or having a young child in the vehicle at the time of arrest. While misdemeanors involve less severe penalties and jail time, felonies can lead to significant prison sentences and more considerable financial penalties.

The transition from a misdemeanor to a felony can also be influenced by blood alcohol content (BAC) levels. In Texas, higher BAC levels can result in harsher penalties due to the increased risk posed to the community. Understanding these thresholds and the legal nuances of BAC testing and its challenges can be an integral part of your defense strategy. Our team works to investigate the procedures and accuracy of BAC testing as part of your defense preparation.

How Can an Attorney Assist in a Felony DWI Case in Odessa?

An experienced felony DWI attorney in Odessa, like those at Sarabia Law Firm, provides invaluable assistance in navigating the complex legal system. We analyze the details of your case, identify the best defense strategies, and represent you during court proceedings. Our goal is to minimize charges or penalties by leveraging local insights and legal knowledge.

Moreover, our team meticulously examines every aspect of your arrest, looking for procedural errors or rights violations. These can range from unlawful stops to improper administration of sobriety tests, which, if proven, could lead to reduced charges or even dismissal. Engaging with Sarabia Law Firm means entrusting your defense to professionals who leave no stone unturned in pursuit of justice for our clients.

Can I Have a Felony DWI Conviction Expunged in Odessa?

Expunging a felony DWI conviction in Texas is a challenging process with specific eligibility requirements. Typically, if the disposition of the case is anything other than a conviction, such as a dismissal or a not guilty verdict, expungement is possible. Given the complexity, consulting with an attorney at Sarabia Law Firm is essential to assess your eligibility and understand your options.

Beyond expungement, another option might be seeking a petition for nondisclosure, which seals your record from public view but retains it for law enforcement and certain official purposes. Our firm is adept at exploring all such avenues, evaluating your unique situation to determine the most suitable path forward to safeguard your future opportunities.

How Soon Should I Contact an Attorney After a DWI Arrest?

Immediate legal consultation is crucial following a DWI arrest. Engaging an attorney swiftly allows for a timely and strategic response to charges. At Sarabia Law Firm, we offer prompt legal counsel to ensure your rights are protected and every possible defense strategy is explored from the outset.

Early intervention can also preserve essential evidence, such as surveillance footage or witness testimonies, which can depreciate over time. By contacting us immediately, we can help coordinate evidence collection and preserve critical elements that shape the narrative for your defense, driving a more favorable outcome.

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Why Clients Choose Sarabia Law Firm

What Sets Our Team Apart?
  • Local Advocacy
    We are deeply rooted in your community and understand the local legal landscape. This enhances our ability to effectively represent you, as we are familiar with the nuances of the local courts and legal environment.
  • Comprehensive Support
    From start to finish, we guide you through the entire legal process with unwavering support.
  • Straightforward and Honest Representation
    At our firm, we prioritize transparency. Our goal is to equip you with the clear and actionable advice you need to navigate your legal challenges effectively.
  • Free Consultations
    Take the first step toward a strong defense with our free consultation, providing personalized legal advice and a strategic plan tailored to your unique situation at no cost.

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