Arrested for a DWI in Spring, TX? What Happens Next and How to Protect Yourself
You’re driving home—maybe from a dinner out or a late shift—when flashing lights appear in your rearview mirror. What starts as a simple traffic stop quickly escalates. You’re asked to step out, take sobriety tests, and before you know it, you’re under arrest for DWI. Now you’re facing court dates, possible fines, a suspended license, and a criminal charge that could follow you for years. If this happened in Spring, TX or the greater Houston area, it’s time to speak with a DWI lawyer in Spring, TX who can help you understand what happens next—and what you can do to protect yourself.
What Happens After a Texas Drunk Driving Arrest?
Most DWI arrests begin with a traffic stop. If an officer believes you’re impaired, they may ask you to take field sobriety tests or a chemical test. Failing or refusing can result in an arrest and a trip to jail. From there, the case splits into two parts: a criminal case and an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing.
You may receive a temporary license and be given instructions on how to contest your suspension. But that window is short. If you don’t act within 15 days, the state can automatically suspend your driving privileges—even if you haven’t had your day in court.
In addition to license issues, you’ll also face a court date for your criminal charges. These can result in fines, jail time, or probation if not handled correctly.
Should You Refuse a Breath or Blood Test?
Under Texas law, if you’re arrested for DWI, you’re considered to have already given your consent to a chemical test. This is called the implied consent law. Refusing a test doesn’t guarantee a better outcome. It can still lead to a license suspension and may be used against you in court.
That said, some drivers in Spring or Houston might choose to refuse chemical testing due to concerns over accuracy or fairness. Every case is different. The impact of refusal depends on your driving record, the officer’s conduct, and the available evidence.
What Penalties Could You Face?
Texas has strict laws for driving while intoxicated. You are legally intoxicated when your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reaches 0.08 percent, but you can still be arrested at a lower level if alcohol or drugs impair your ability to drive. Even a first offense can result in serious consequences. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, penalties may include a fine of up to $2,000, jail time from three to 180 days, and a license suspension for up to one year.
Some factors can lead to harsher charges. If your BAC was 0.15 or higher, the offense may be upgraded from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor under Texas Penal Code § 49.04. This carries a higher maximum fine and longer potential jail sentence.
Other aggravating circumstances—such as having a child passenger, causing a crash, or having prior offenses—can also raise the penalties and may result in felony charges.
What Should You Do Next?
What you do right after a DWI arrest can affect your case. Texas law moves quickly, and certain deadlines come fast. Here are three important steps:
- Request an ALR hearing within 15 days to contest your license suspension.
- Follow any bond conditions or court orders to avoid further penalties.
- Avoid discussing the case publicly, especially on social media. Anything you post can be used against you.
Many people assume that if they failed a breathalyzer or field test, they have no defense. That’s not always true. Breath and blood testing devices must be calibrated correctly. Field sobriety tests must follow strict guidelines. If the stop was unlawful or your rights were violated, the entire case could be challenged.
Seeking criminal defense for DWI doesn’t mean you’re admitting guilt. It means you want someone reviewing your case with experience in how these cases work.
Can DWI Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes, in some cases. Charges may be dropped or reduced if there are problems with how the stop or arrest was handled. For example, if the officer didn’t have probable cause to stop you or failed to follow procedure, the evidence may not hold up in court.
In other situations, you might be eligible for alternative resolutions, especially if this is your first offense. This could include probation, community service, or a DWI education course.
Every case is different. A strong defense may find weaknesses in the state’s evidence, raise legal questions about the process, or argue for lesser charges based on your circumstances.
Will a DWI Go on Your Record?
If you’re convicted, yes. A DWI conviction stays on your criminal record in Texas and can affect your future for years. It can show up in background checks for jobs, housing applications, or professional licensing.
What many drivers don’t realize—whether they’re in Spring, Houston, or another part of Texas—is how far the impact of a DWI conviction can reach. It’s not just about fines or court dates. A single arrest can affect your career, your ability to drive, and your future. That’s why getting legal help after a DUI early in the process can make a real difference—not just on your record, but in how you move forward.
We’re Ready to Help You Defend Your Rights
If you’ve been arrested for a DWI—whether it happened just outside Houston or right here in Spring—you already know how quickly things spiral. One wrong move at a traffic stop can lead to court dates, license suspensions, and a criminal record. You need more than just legal advice. You need someone who knows how to handle criminal cases from the ground up.As a DWI lawyer in Spring, TX, we’re committed to helping clients face these charges with clarity and strength. We also handle other serious legal matters, including personal injury, civil rights violation, and unbundled legal services. If you’re ready to move forward with a legal team that understands how much is at stake, we’re here to help.
