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Driving while intoxicated (DWI) by alcohol, drugs, or both is charged as a misdemeanor in Amarillo when it is a first or second offense. Subsequent offenses and incidents involving aggravating circumstances. Such as DWI with children in the vehicle, are charged as felonies and have more severe consequences upon conviction.
You should not attempt to fight felony DWI charges on your own. An Amarillo felony DWI lawyer could provide crucial legal representation, especially if you have prior DWI convictions. A defense attorney could also protect your legal rights while fighting to achieve the best outcome possible in your situation.
Felony DWI Offenses in Amarillo
Felony DWI offenses in Amarillo are outlined in Texas Penal Code Title 10, Chapter 49. Several different offenses involving driving while intoxicated are charged as felonies, including:
- Third or subsequent DWIs
- Driving while intoxicated with children in the vehicle
- Causing serious bodily injury to another person by accident or mistake due to driving while intoxicated
- Causing the death of another person by accident or mistake due to driving while intoxicated
A first or second DWI offense is usually charged as a misdemeanor but could be elevated to a felony under certain circumstances. For instance, causing serious bodily injury to emergency medical personnel, firefighters, peace officers, or judges while those individuals were engaging in official duties could elevate DWI charges to a felony. An Amarillo felony DWI attorney could describe these laws in greater detail and explain how they apply to a particular situation.
Potential Penalties Upon Conviction
The penalties for felony DWIs in Amarillo vary based on the specific offense. For example, driving while intoxicated with a child in the vehicle is a state jail felony punishable by incarceration for between 180 days and two years, as well as a fine up to $10,000.
Third or subsequent DWI offenses are third-degree felonies. The penalties include between two to ten years imprisonment and a fine up to $10,000. Causing serious bodily injury to another person as a result of driving while intoxicated is referred to as intoxication assault and is also a felony of the third degree, punishable by the same penalties listed above.
Causing the death of another person due to driving while intoxicated is referred to as intoxication manslaughter and is a felony of the second degree. The penalties include imprisonment for between two and 20 years and a possible $10,000 fine. A felony DWI lawyer in Amarillo could provide additional information about these offenses.
Consult an Amarillo Felony DWI Attorney
Felony DWIs are associated with severe penalties, including several years imprisonment and a fine of several thousand dollars. An Amarillo felony DWI lawyer could provide crucial legal counsel and representation if you are facing charges.
A lawyer could identify the available defense strategies based on the specific circumstances surrounding your case. An attorney could also safeguard your legal right to due process and all other constitutional rights. To discuss your case and begin building a powerful defense, call now and schedule a consultation.