What are my legal options if I’m charged with DWI in Houston?

If you’re arrested for drunk driving, we have at least 3 options for dealing with the charge within the confines of Texas law. We can attempt to get the case dismissed, work out a deal with the Harris County Dist. Atty’s Office, or we can fight the charge, head-on, in a full-blown trial.

Is it possible to beat a Houston DWI charge in Harris County?

Absolutely. The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates wields a distinctive set of credentials, training, and is an asset to anyone facing criminal charges related to DWI in Houston. Although every case is different, we also have a solid record of winning in court for our clients.

Can I avoid jail time if I’m convicted for drunk driving?

In short, yes. In reality, there are a number of different factors involved in each and every case we’ve seen in our experience as Houston DWI attorneys. Probation is usually a possibility for most persons that are convicted of DWI in Houston. However, there are no guarantees.

How much jail time can I get if I’m convicted of DWI?

A determination on jail sentencing is the sole priority of the court within the guidelines of Texas criminal law. Depending on the frequency of DWI offenses incurred by the defendant, and the severity of additional factors, a jail sentence could be as short as a few days, to life.

Can you help with truck driver DWI cases involving a CDL?

As a matter of fact we can. The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates is among the premier law firms in Texas for DWI defense. Both lawyers on our Houston DWI defense team are Certified ACS/CHAL Lawyer-Scientists, with Tad Nelson holding a Board Certification.

Will I lose my Texas Drivers’ License if I’m charged with DWI?

In Texas, if you’re arrested for DWI or DUI, the process of Administrative License Revocation is initiated for the purpose of automatically suspending your Texas Drivers’ License. Houston DWI lawyer Tad A. Nelson may be able to intervene, and prevent TDL suspension.

Texas DWI Cases Involving an Open Container

November 15, 2017

Updated: Feb 10, 2023 @ 11:16 pm

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Insights from a Top Criminal Defense Attorney in Houston

A charge of driving while intoxicated (DWI) can be a scary experience. When the offense is compounded with an open container charge, you have reason to be all the more concerned. In such cases, you need access to an experienced lawyer who can help you make the best choices after you have been charged.

At The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates, making sure you are treated fairly is a top priority. We can often help to reduce DWI charges for our clients in the Houston area. Do not wait to get the expert guidance needed to ensure the best outcome.

Understanding the Law and Your Rights

As you may already know, the state of Texas does not take a Driving While Intoxicated offense lightly. A conviction could affect your record and many aspects of your life, so a DWI charge must be handled by a lawyer with extensive knowledge in this area.

Here are some details you should know if you were charged for DWI coupled with an open container offense:

Open Container Violation – It is illegal in Texas to have an open container of alcohol in a vehicle. It does not matter whether or not the car or other type of vehicle is in motion or stopped. It is still against the law to have the open container in the vehicle.
Definition of Open Container – An open container is defined as any open bottle, can, or other receptacle that contains an alcoholic beverage of any sort. Even if the seal is broken and the alcohol has been untouched, it is still illegal to have such an item in a vehicle in Texas.
Location – Whether the opened container of alcohol is in the driver or passenger area of a vehicle, it is prohibited. Neither a driver nor any passengers may imbibe alcohol inside a vehicle.
DWI – Driving while intoxicated is an even more serious offense than having an open container in a vehicle. In fact, after the second such offense, you could be charged with a felony crime.

DWI, Open Containers, and the Law

There are certain exceptions to the laws mentioned here. One example is if an open container is kept in a locked trunk. Another exception is if the passenger imbibing alcohol does so in a hired limousine.

If you are charged with an open container violation or a DWI involving drugs or alcohol, contact a lawyer from The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates. You will benefit from our wealth of experience in this area.

If you were charged with an offense related to alcohol or drugs, contact us. We are proud to serve the residents of Houston, Galveston, Clear Lake and League City, Texas. Call us today at 281-280-0100, or you can reach us via our online contact form.