FAQ for DWI Cases

Answers from a Skilled Dallas DWI Defense Attorney

If you are facing DWI charges, it can be a stressful and confusing time. With so much at stake, it is crucial to have a knowledgeable Dallas attorney advocating for your rights. At Knight Law Office, we have experience on both sides of the courtroom, and our founder formerly served as Assistant District Attorney for the Dallas County District Attorney's Office, so we understand how to prepare the best possible defense for your case.

How do officers find out if a driver is intoxicated?

Police look for a number of things when screening for potentially intoxicated drivers. If a driver is swerving across the road, failing to stop at signs or lights, speeding, or even moving too slowly, a police officer may pull him or her over to determine if they are inebriated. Police may also conduct sobriety tests to conclude whether a driver is intoxicated. These tests may include having the driver walk in a straight line and turn around, watching the driver's eyes as they track a flashlight or pen, and having the driver stand on one leg. Finally, police can administer a breathalyzer or blood test to determine a driver's blood alcohol concentration.

What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Dallas?

Drivers must have a BAC of less than .08% to be under the legal limit in Dallas. Those with a BAC of .08% or higher can be arrested and charged with a DWI. It is important to note that these chemical tests are not always administered correctly. Also, if drivers burp or vomit prior to taking one of these tests, the results can be skewed. The test must be conducted correctly for the evidence to be legitimate.

What happens if I refuse a blood or breath test?

In the state of Texas, drivers operating a vehicle have automatically consented to chemical testing to determine their sobriety. Individuals can refuse a breathalyzer or blood test but may face a 180-day license suspension. Drivers who are pulled over in a repeat incident and refuse the chemical tests a second or third time can lose their license for up to two years.

What should I do if I've been charged with a DWI or DUI?

If you are facing DUI charges, you should retain a qualified lawyer to defend your case. Our team of aggressive Dallas criminal defense attorneys believes that every individual is innocent until proven guilty. With so many factors involved in a drunk driving incident, including possible faulty tests, varying blood alcohol levels, and protocols for legal police stops, we can review your case to determine if the charges against you are valid.