How Long Will a DWI Conviction Stay on My Record in Texas?

The state of Texas takes the crime of driving while intoxicated (DWI) very seriously—so seriously that prosecutors sometimes treat those arrested for DWI unfairly, punishing them more harshly than the crime demands.

If you’re facing a conviction for drunk driving, you may be worried about this question: How long will a DWI conviction stay on my record in Texas? Unless you’re able to get the offense expunged, the answer is likely to be forever.

Avoiding a conviction is in your very best interest. Once a drunk driving offense is on your record, it can never be erased, except under extremely specific circumstances. You may believe there’s no way you can get your charges dismissed or reduced, but defenses against conviction are available. Read on to learn more.

Defenses Against Texas DWI Charges

A good DWI defense attorney knows how to analyze every detail of your case, including the police report, witness statements, and your account of what happened, to formulate the best defense for you.

Here are some examples of defenses your attorney can use to keep a DWI conviction off your record.

• You weren’t actually drinking but were taking a prescription medication.
• You weren’t driving at all.
• Someone was using your identity.
• You were drinking but you weren’t over the legal limit.
• There was a mistake with your lab work.
• The accuracy of the field sobriety test is questionable.
• The police officer who arrested you violated your rights or made procedural errors.

The Penalties for a DWI Conviction in Texas

Aside from the consequences of having a criminal record, which could mean your job prospects will be severely limited, you will also face legal penalties if convicted of a drunk driving offense. Even a first-offense DWI will get you a license suspension, a fine, and up to 180 days in jail. It just gets worse from there.

Get in Touch with a Fort Worth DWI Lawyer

Now you know how long a DWI conviction will stay on your record in Texas. And now is the time to fight a conviction—your life will be a lot easier without a DWI on your record. Is a dismissal really possible? You have a much better chance of getting a dismissal or reduction with a DWI attorney on your team.

To contact the Law Offices of Jeff C. Kennedy, simply fill out the online contact form below or call 817-605-1010.