Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Texas is not a “simple mistake” you can pay your way out of. Beyond the well-known fines and potential jail time, a DWI conviction in San Antonio can ripple through every part of your life — your career, your reputation, your ability to drive, and even your immigration status. Many people facing charges underestimate these hidden costs, only to realize too late how much they stand to lose.
If you’ve been charged with a DWI in San Antonio, not just any attorney will do. You need a defense attorney who understands the full scope of the consequences and fights to protect your future. At Guzman Law Firm, our DWI defense team won’t downplay what’s at stake. Call us today at (956) 516-7198 for a confidential consultation.
Consequences of a DWI in Texas
The headlines often focus on the immediate penalties for a DWI — court fines that can reach thousands of dollars and possible jail time. But those are only part of the story. The true consequences of a DWI in San Antonio are more than just paying a fine or doing some time; a conviction sets off a chain reaction that can follow you for years.
Here are some of the less obvious, but very real, costs of a DWI in San Antonio:
- Ignition interlock devices (IIDs): Judges often require drivers to install an IID in their vehicles, especially for repeat offenses. These devices come with installation fees, monthly monitoring costs, and maintenance fees that add up quickly.
- Alcohol education programs: Convicted drivers are typically ordered to complete state-approved alcohol education or intervention programs. These courses are not free, and failure to complete them can result in extended license suspension.
- Annual surcharges: Texas imposes annual surcharges (or “super fines”) through the Driver Responsibility Program. While some surcharges were repealed, certain DWI-related fees remain, and they can total thousands of dollars over several years.
- Criminal record: A DWI becomes a permanent part of your record, potentially visible to future employers, landlords, and licensing boards. Unlike minor infractions, DWIs are not easily forgotten.
The real cost of a DWI is often felt in a series of missed opportunities and minor reductions in your quality of life. The financial burdens combine with the criminal penalties, creating a cumulative effect that can derail your plans for the rest of your life.
Employment consequences of a DWI in San Antonio
For many people, the harshest fallout of a DWI isn’t what happens in court — it’s what happens at work. For example, employers may terminate employees convicted of DWI, especially if the job involves driving, public safety, or requires a clean criminal record.
Additionally, teachers, healthcare workers, and other licensed professionals can face disciplinary actions, including suspension or revocation of licenses. Even if you keep your job, opportunities for promotions or transfers may be limited due to the conviction.
In short, a DWI doesn’t just threaten your freedom; it can derail your entire career trajectory.
DWI impact on CDL drivers
What happens if your CDL is suspended for a DWI in Texas? For commercial drivers, a DWI can be catastrophic. A first-offense DWI results in a one-year disqualification of your CDL, even if the offense occurred in a personal vehicle. A second conviction means a lifetime CDL disqualification in most cases.
If driving is your livelihood, a DWI doesn’t just cost money; it can cost you your career. Our firm has represented numerous CDL holders who faced losing everything, and we fight to minimize or avoid convictions whenever possible.
Immigration issues tied to DWI convictions
For non-U.S. citizens, the stakes are even higher. A DWI conviction can complicate visa renewals, green card applications, or even result in deportation under certain circumstances. Immigration judges and officials often view a DWI as a sign of poor moral character, which can seriously damage your case.
The risk is especially high if your DWI involves aggravating factors like:
- Having a child passenger
- Accidents resulting in injury
- High blood alcohol concentration
If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you need a defense attorney who understands how criminal charges and immigration law intersect, because even a single mistake in your defense strategy could jeopardize your ability to stay in the country.
Common questions about Texas DWIs
Because DWIs carry so many moving parts, people often have the same urgent questions after being charged. Here’s what you should know:
Can you drive after a DWI in Texas?
No, you cannot legally drive after getting a DWI in Texas. Your license will likely be suspended, but you may apply for an occupational license, which lets you drive to work, school, or essential tasks.
Is jail time mandatory for DWI in Texas?
For first offense DWIs in Texas, jail time is possible but not always required — probation and other alternatives may be available. For repeat DWI offenses, however, jail time becomes increasingly likely.
What happens after you get a DWI in Texas?
After you get a DWI in Texas, you’ll face both criminal proceedings (court dates, potential fines, and jail time) and administrative consequences (license suspension, surcharges, and fees).
Can a first-time DWI be dismissed in Texas?
Yes, dismissal is possible depending on the evidence and circumstances. However, second or third DWI offenses may be more difficult to dismiss. This is where an experienced defense attorney can make the biggest difference.
Is your license suspended immediately after a DWI in Texas?
No, your license is not suspended immediately. You typically have 15 days from the date of arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to contest the suspension.
Why you need a skilled DWI defense attorney
With so much at stake, trying to handle a DWI charge on your own is risky. Finding the best DWI lawyer in San Antonio for your case means identifying an attorney who can:
- Challenge the evidence (such as field sobriety tests or breathalyzer results)
- Fight for dismissal or reduction of charges
- Help protect your license and driving privileges
- Mitigate employment and immigration fallout
At Guzman Law Firm, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly a single mistake can snowball into life-altering consequences. Our job is to stop that from happening.
DWI? Protect your future. Call Guzman Law Firm.
A DWI in San Antonio is never “just” a fine or a night in jail — it’s a lasting mark that can affect your finances, career, relationships, and even your immigration status. From ignition interlock devices to CDL disqualification, the hidden costs are far-reaching and severe.
Don’t let one charge define the rest of your life. If you’re facing DWI accusations, call Guzman Law Firm today at (956) 516-7198 for a case review. We’ll help you fight for your freedom, your livelihood, and your future.
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