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!
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Free Consultations
Our firm offers free consultations. For prompt and professional legal service, contact us today.
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We UnderstandWe know the importance of your case and the impact it can have on your future. We are here to help.
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Se Habla EspañolOur dedicated staff is able to assist any Spanish-speaking clients who are in need of our services.
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Client-CenteredWe are dedicated to obtaining superior results as well as providing top-notch customer service.
We're Here For Our Clients
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"Great results and great service."
I found Mr. White online and called to see if I could talk with him because it was my first offense and I wasn't sure where to start. I talked to a lady in his office first, then he called me back right away. He explained my options and got on the case that day. Great results and great service. Thank you!!!- Former Client -
"I'm grateful for their diligence through this process."
David M. White staff was amazing. They were very patient with me during this emotional and stressful time. With this being my senior year in college, Mr. White and his staff assured me the best route for me to take to get through this process. I really appreciate them, and I'm grateful for their diligence through this process.- Marissa L. -
"They are friendly and easy to deal with."
Mr. White and his staff do everything in their power to get you exactly what you want. They are friendly and easy to deal with. I will use his services again. Many Thanks- Former Client -
"They know what they're doing."
Great customer service at the law firm. Mr. White is a very nice guy. Even through setbacks they were able to pull through. I've used a handful of lawyers to get tickets differed and by far this was the best I've hired. They know what they're doing. I'll definitely be using him again!- Desiree' H.