An open container violation can lead to more legal problems than you think. If a police officer finds an open liquor container in your car, you can be cited for a Class C misdemeanor. But if the officer uncovers evidence you committed another offense–such as DWI or possession of illegal drugs–you may face significantly more […]
A DWI accident can lead to multiple criminal charges, especially if the crash results in serious injury or death to another person. For example, a drunk driver who “causes the death of another by accident or mistake” may be charged with intoxication manslaughter, a second-degree felony under the Texas Penal Code. Separately, the driver may […]
The state of Texas has fairly strict laws when it comes to driving while drinking or while under the influence of drugs. Over the past several years, the state has cracked down on drivers who violate those laws, resulting in large fines and even jail time for violators. There are a few things, called enhancements, […]
A Texas woman who struck a group of bicyclists has recently been charged with intoxication assault. Upon arrest, the 50-year-old woman she showed signs of intoxication. The report shows that she struck a group of five bicyclists, leading to the death of one. One other bicyclist suffered from bruises and fractures, but is expected to […]
Not all DWIs are created the same in Texas. In many cases there may be special circumstances that justify an “enhanced” DWI charge–i.e., one that may result in more jail time or higher fines. One of the more common enhancements in Texas is the DWI with open container charge. Plastic Cup, Empty Bottle Helps Justify […]
Houston-area police will not cut you any slack following an accident where they suspect you were driving drunk. DWI accidents are a serious matter, and police will move quickly to try and preserve what they consider relative evidence. However, police should never take shortcuts when it comes to protecting your constitutional rights, especially in a […]
Even if you are not driving while intoxicated, it is still against the law to have an open container of alcohol in the car with you, even if you are stopped or parked at the time. An “open container” is defined by the Texas Penal Code as any “bottle, can, or other receptacle” where the […]
A DWI accident that causes the death of another person is considered second-degree felony manslaughter in Texas. Police and prosecutors will not go easy on a defendant just because the victim was a family member, or even if the defendant himself was seriously injured. That said, in their zeal to prove a defendant’s guilt, police […]
Driving with an open container is almost as bad as blowing a BAC of .08 or greater, and if you blow a .08 or greater and have an open container in the vehicle, your DWI just went from bad to worse. If you were charged with an enhanced DWI in Texas, you may find it […]
Driving while intoxicated is a serious offense in Texas, but driving while intoxicated and causing an accident is a crime. If you or a loved one caused an accident while driving under the influence, you face a criminal conviction, jail time, and fines. In short, your future is at stake. A skilled DWI defense attorney […]