Abilene & San Angelo Deferred Adjudication Attorney

Arrested for DWI for the First Time? Let Our Firm Help You Avoid Conviction!

For many people, the first time dealing with the law if often because of a DWI. Getting convicted of a Texas DWI is punishable by fines, driver’s license suspension, a potential jail sentence, and a permanent criminal record. Fortunately, first-time DWI offenders have an opportunity to avoid conviction and a criminal record through deferred adjudication.

If you or a loved one was recently arrested for DWI in Abilene or San Angelo, do not hesitate to let the Law Offices of David M. White protect your rights, freedom, and future. Attorney David White can take advantage of a recent law that allows first-time DWI offenders to qualify for deferred adjudication in Texas and help you avoid harsh criminal consequences.

Call (325) 221-4421 for a free initial consultation to discuss your case with an experienced deferred adjudication lawyer in Abilene and San Angelo.

House Bill (HB) 3582 Explained

On September 1, 2019, Texas lawmakers passed HB 3582 and thus changed the criminal code to offer first-time DWI offenders the opportunity to seek deferred adjudication probation. As long as the defendant was driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of less than .15 percent and there was no property damage, personal injury, or death involved, any person facing their first DWI offense is eligible for this option.

Previously, first-time DWI offenders did not qualify for deferred adjudication since 1984. However, state prosecutors were not able to be flexible with DWI cases, which resulted in a massive case backlog.

What Is Deferred Adjudication?

Deferred adjudication means a defendant pleads guilty to a judge, who finds the person guilty and can then defer the finding of guilt and place them in probation or community supervision. When a defendant enters the program, they must follow all terms and conditions, which includes installing an ignition interlock device (IID) in each vehicle you own and/or operate.

Once a defendant completes the program, they will avoid conviction. However, although there will be no conviction on a person’s criminal record, the arrest and court hearings will still be viewable, so it is important to petition for an Order of Nondisclosure to seal such information.

Additionally, a subsequent DWI offense will result in enhanced penalties. Law enforcement and prosecutors can use a first-time DUI offense that had been deferred as a prior conviction in the event of another DWI charge.

Ready to Help You Get Your Life Back on Track

A DWI conviction can ruin your life, even for a first-time offense, which is why the Law Offices of David M. White is prepared to fight for you from start to finish. Let our knowledge criminal defense attorney defend you inside and outside the courtroom immediately.

Have questions about deferred adjudication? Contact our DWI lawyer today for more information about our skilled legal services. Give us a call at (325) 221-4421 to get started!