Being charged with a driving while intoxicated (DWI) or a related drunk driving charge can significantly impact your life for a long time. That’s why it’s crucial to know how to defend yourself when facing such a charge.
Below are three areas in your life that a drunk driving charge can affect:
Driving privileges
A DWI or related drunk driving charge can lead to the suspension of your driving privileges even before a conviction. Since Texas is an implied consent state, refusing to submit to testing after a lawful DWI arrest can lead to an automatic license suspension for not less than 180 days.
Being convicted of a DWI for the first time can lead to the loss of a driver license for up to a year, a fine of up to $2,000, and up to 180 days in jail (with three mandatory days). These penalties become harsher with subsequent offenses.
Criminal record
A DWI conviction becomes a part of your criminal record. Thus, it will show up on background checks done by an employer, landlord, or licensing agency. Accordingly, it can restrict your opportunities.
Some jobs, especially driving-related roles, reject applicants with a DWI conviction. Landlords who use strict criminal background checks consider people with a DWI, particularly a recent one, a risk to tenant safety.
Further, professional licensing boards, such as the Texas Board of Nursing, Texas Medical Board, State Board for Educator Certification and Texas Real Estate Commission, can deny or suspend one’s license because of a DWI conviction.
Personal relationships
A DWI conviction can strain your personal relationships. Your loved ones may feel disappointed. Also, it can be used to question your judgment and parental fitness if you are in a child custody battle or co-parenting agreement.
A DWI conviction can negatively impact several areas of your life. Consider legal guidance to protect yourself.
