Multiple DWI Offenses in Houston, TX

Avoid significant penalties with our seasoned DWI defense attorneys

When a driver has one or more prior driving while intoxicated (DWI) convictions on his or her record, this can greatly increase penalties for a new conviction. Multiple DWI offenders are given no leniency by Harris County prosecutors and judges. You will need an aggressive and experienced attorney in your corner if you are to have any chance of avoiding a conviction.

Results-driven and passionate about fighting for our clients’ interests, DWI defense specialist Mark Thiessen and the team at Thiessen Law Firm have the skill and knowledge needed to represent clients facing second, third, fourth, or subsequent DWI offenses. Our Houston multiple DWI attorneys have secured Not Guilty verdicts in the most complex and seemingly hopeless cases, even in those where blood test evidence was submitted against our clients. We fight to win and will spare no effort in defending our clients’ rights.

Penalties for a second DWI offense

Fortunately, a second DWI in Texas is not considered a felony. Instead, a second DWI is charged as a Class A misdemeanor in Texas.

Penalties for a second DWI offense include:

• A minimum of 30 days in jail
• A potential total of up to 1 year in jail
• A fine of $2,000 – $4,000
• Potential license suspension for up to 2 years.

Individuals found guilty of a 2nd DWI may also be required to attend courses and install an ignition interlock device. These penalties have the potential to be twice as bad as a first-time DWI offense (which carries a fine of up to $2,000 and 3-180 days in jail). Additionally, since a second DWI offense is a repeat of a similar prior offense, you are more likely than not to receive the full extent of the penalty than you were with your first offense.

If you decide to take your DWI case to trial, keep in mind that it is now also now law that juries are allowed to be told whether or not you’ve received a prior DWI conviction.

Finally, if you are convicted of a 2nd DWI offense, your DWI is no longer eligible to be sealed on your record in Texas. In other words, that DWI will earn a permanent place on your record.

A third DWI is a felony offense in Houston

A third DWI is far more serious and is charged as a third-degree felony, even if your first and second DWI convictions took place a long time ago. As with other DWI convictions, the circumstances of your arrest will be taken into account. You are more likely to pay higher fines/face more time in jail if your BAC is over a certain limit (.15, roughly twice the legal limit) or if your arrest involved a wreck and the damage of property.

Penalties for a third DWI offense in Texas include:

• Up to 10 years in prison
• A fine of up to $10,000
• 2-year license suspension
• Mandatory ignition interlock device installation

With 3rd DWIs in Texas, you are especially likely to be told to attend a mandatory DWI course. Passing these courses, if they are part of your sentencing, is required; if you fail, you can be subject to additional fines and jail time. Additionally, you may also be required to complete anywhere between 100-600 of community service.

Again, unlike other states that have a limited “lookback period” to see whether you have any prior DWI convictions, in Texas your entire driving history is taken into account. Even if you have a prior DWI from 10 or more years ago, it will be taken into consideration and you will face the increased penalties associated with a subsequent DWI conviction. This makes retaining a top-notch attorney all the more important to your future.

Thank you, Mark, for saving my career.

I’m in medical sales, so when I was wrongly accused and my career was on the line, I called the best: Mark Thiessen. Mark came highly referred to me from my friends. After reading his reviews on line and meeting him in his office, I knew I could trust Mark to fight for me. Every time he walks in the court the DAs, Judge and staff all greet him. I was honestly proud that was my lawyer when he came in.

Posted by Beau
View More Testimonials

DWI surcharges have changed

As of September 1st, 2019, the laws regarding DPS surcharges have changed. Instead, mandated civil fees can be from $3000 to $6000 depending on if the charge occurred within 36 months of the original charge and if the blood alcohol level is over .15.

This range is for any subsequent DWI, be it second, third, or seventh.

DWI Lawyers With a Proven Track Record

Our Houston 2nd, 3rd, and 4th DWI lawyers have a track record of results that shows our true commitment and skill. Put us in your corner and you can rest assured that you have the most advanced team fighting for you. Our founding attorney, Mark Thiessen, is also Board Certified in DWI Defense by the National College for DUI Defense as well as DWI Law by the DWI Defense Lawyers Association and Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.