Important Information About a Third Drunk Driving Offense

Texas law takes D.W.I. charges and convictions very seriously, even for first-time offenders. But if you are being charged with your third D.W.I. offense, it is important to get in touch with an experienced criminal defense attorney today. Attorneys at The Law Office of Matthew Shrum, PLLC could be the determining factor between a lengthy prison sentence and maintaining your freedom.    In Texas, the time between D.W.I. conviction is irrelevant. If you have two prior convictions at any point in your lifetime, a third D.W.I. charge could change your life drastically. Rather than being convicted of a misdemeanor, receiving a third D.W.I. charge will be viewed as a third-degree felony offense in the state of Texas. A guilty conviction for this charge can result in a prison sentence ranging from 2 years to 10 years behind bars, a maximum fine of $10,000, and a possible two-year suspension of your driver’s license. This does not include the annual fee of $2,000 per year for three years prior to the conviction to reinstate your driver’s license. It is likely that the courts will require the installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle to prevent any further D.W.I. instances and propose your full compliance with mandatory random drug testing.    The consequences that will be enforced after a guilty conviction for a third D.W.I. offense may not stop inside the courtroom. Additional consequences for this charge can follow an individual for the rest of their lives and transform their freedoms forever. Some of these extended consequences include loss of employment, difficulty in getting approved for housing in certain areas, losing your right to vote, losing your right to own a firearm, losing any professional licenses you have achieved previously, inability to apply for some government benefits, as well as the huge negative impact a guilty conviction may have on your reputation. This can greatly affect individuals who own their own business or work for themselves as potential clients may not feel safe conducting business with the convicted.    If you or someone you know has a history of D.W.I. convictions and is currently facing trial for their third offense, it is important to contact an experienced and trusted attorney as soon as possible.Our Austin dwi lawyer at The Law Office of Matthew Shrum has more than 10 years of experience dealing with D.W.I. cases of varying degrees. Our legal advisors understand the judiciary system and are better equipped to represent you in court. We will work diligently with the prosecution and the judge to find the best course of action for your case. We will assess your probation eligibility as well to reduce any prison time from the recommended 2 to 10 years into a possible 10-day sentence. Give The Law Office of Matthew Shrum a call today to find out just how our attorneys may be able to help you.