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San Antonio DWI Lawyer
Protecting Your Rights, License, and Future After a Drunk Driving Arrest
Home – San Antonio – DWI
Representation You Can Trust
A driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge in San Antonio can affect your freedom, your finances, and your reputation. In Texas, prosecutors aggressively pursue DWI convictions, and courts impose serious penalties — even for first-time offenders.
At The Hull Firm, our criminal defense attorneys bring decades of combined experience — including the insight of a former prosecutor — to defend clients facing DWI charges. With a downtown San Antonio office at 700 N St Mary’s Street, Suite 1400, we are positioned to serve clients across Bexar County and surrounding communities.
📞 Call 210-692-4913 today for a free consultation. Available 24/7.
Why Choose The Hull Firm as Your San Antonio DWI Lawyers
When your freedom is on the line, the right lawyer makes all the difference. At The Hull Firm, we offer:
- Former Prosecutor Experience – insight into how the state builds cases
- Aggressive Trial Advocacy – willingness to fight in court when necessary
- Local Court Knowledge – familiarity with Bexar County prosecutors and judges
- 24/7 Availability – always ready to respond, no matter when you need us
This combination of experience, local knowledge, and aggressive advocacy gives clients their best chance at a favorable outcome.
- ✅ Over 700 Criminal Cases Dismissed
- ⚖️ Experienced Former Prosecutors on Your Side
- ⏱️ 24/7 Jail Release & Emergency Legal Help
- 📍 Deep Knowledge of Local County Courts
- 💬 Free Confidential Consultations
- 💳 Flexible Payment Plans Available to Fit Your Budget
- 🕰️ Over 15 Years of Criminal Defense Experience
- 🧾 Proven Record of Charge Reductions & Case Dismissals
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Our Case Results
#1 Goal Is A Dismissal
Understanding Texas DWI Laws
What Counts as DWI in Texas?
Texas law sets clear thresholds for when driving becomes unlawful due to alcohol or drugs. These are the main standards officers use:
- 0.08% BAC or higher for adults 21+
- 0.04% BAC or higher for commercial drivers
- Any detectable alcohol for drivers under 21 (zero-tolerance law)
While these numbers create clear cutoffs, you can still be charged even below the limit if officers believe your driving was impaired.
The Role of Field Sobriety and Chemical Tests
Police often rely on testing to build probable cause for an arrest. The common tools they use include:
- Field sobriety tests like the walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, and HGN/eye test
- Breath tests administered with handheld or station devices
- Blood tests taken after a warrant is issued
These tests are frequently flawed and open to challenge, which is why an experienced DWI lawyer is essential.
Penalties for DWI Convictions in San Antonio
First-Offense DWI
Penalties for a first-time DWI may include:
- Up to $2,000 in fines
- 3–180 days in jail
- License suspension up to 1 year
- Possible ignition interlock
Even as a first offense, a DWI conviction leaves you with a permanent record that can affect jobs, housing, and insurance.
Second-Offense DWI
A second conviction brings harsher penalties, such as:
- Up to $4,000 in fines
- 1 month–1 year in jail
- License suspension up to 2 years
- Ignition interlock required
This second strike increases the risk of longer license suspension and mandatory ignition interlock installation.
Third-Offense DWI (Felony)
Once you reach a third DWI charge, the penalties escalate significantly:
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- 2–10 years in prison
- License suspension up to 2 years
- Permanent felony record
A felony DWI can follow you for life, creating permanent barriers to employment and housing.
Aggravating Factors
Certain circumstances make the consequences even more severe:
- Child passenger: State jail felony, up to 2 years in prison, $10,000 fine
- Intoxication assault: 2–10 years in prison
- Intoxication manslaughter: 2–20 years in prison
These factors elevate a DWI into felony territory, making it crucial to build a strong defense from day one.
The DWI Arrest Process in San Antonio
The moments after being pulled over often determine how strong the case against you will be. Here are the typical steps:
- Traffic Stop – often for swerving, speeding, or a minor violation
- Field Sobriety Tests – subjective roadside balance or coordination checks
- Breath/Blood Test – chemical measurement of alcohol content
- Booking & Jail – fingerprints, mugshot, initial holding
- Bond or Release – depending on charges
- Court Process Begins – hearings scheduled in Bexar County
Understanding this sequence allows us to identify where mistakes or rights violations may have occurred.
Where DWI Cases Are Handled in Bexar County
In San Antonio, DWI cases typically proceed through:
- Bexar County Criminal Courts at Law for misdemeanors
- Bexar County District Courts for felonies
- Magistrate Court for bond and initial hearings
Knowing the local system helps us anticipate how your case will be handled and which defense strategies to use.
Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Hearings
What Is an ALR Hearing?
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) can suspend your license after a DWI arrest. Unless you act quickly, this suspension becomes automatic. Key rules include:
- You have 15 days from arrest to request a hearing
- Hearings determine if your license will be suspended
- Suspension can last months to years depending on the case
Failing to request a hearing means you give up your chance to save your license.
Why the ALR Hearing Matters
The ALR hearing provides several key opportunities for your defense:
- A chance to save your license
- Ability to cross-examine the arresting officer under oath
- Gathering evidence for use in your criminal case
This process is not just about driving — it’s an early opportunity to strengthen your overall defense.
The Impact of a DWI Conviction
The consequences of a DWI conviction extend far beyond the courtroom. Here’s how it can affect your life:
Personal Consequences
- A permanent criminal record
- Community stigma and damaged reputation
- Restricted international travel
The personal toll of a conviction often lingers long after court fines are paid.
Financial Consequences
- Thousands of dollars in fines
- Higher insurance premiums for years
- Job loss, particularly for drivers or licensed professionals
The financial burden of a DWI conviction can strain individuals and families alike.
Professional Consequences
- Suspension of professional licenses (teachers, nurses, CDL holders, etc.)
- Security clearance problems for military and government employees
- Fewer career opportunities long-term
For many, protecting their career is as important as avoiding jail.
Get the Defense You Deserve – Call 210-692-4913 Today
Frequently Asked Questions About San Antonio DWI
Can I refuse a breath test in Texas?
How long does a DWI stay on my record?
Will I go to jail for a first-time DWI?
How soon should I contact a lawyer after arrest?
Do I have to attend every court date?
Can a DWI be reduced to a lesser charge?
What if I live outside San Antonio but was arrested here?
Are field sobriety tests required in Texas?
What if I was on prescription medication?
How reliable are breathalyzers?
Will a DWI affect my job?
Will insurance increase?
Can a DWI be expunged?
Where are cases tried in San Antonio?
Do local prosecutors negotiate?
San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyer
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Contact The Hull Firm – San Antonio DWI Attorneys
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Phone: 210-692-4913
Email: info@thehullfirm.com
700 N St Mary’s Street
Suite 1400
San Antonio, TX 78205