DWI/DUI Defense in Zilker, Texas
Expert Legal Representation at The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC
If you’ve been charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Zilker, Texas, having an experienced legal team on your side is crucial. At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we specialize in defending clients against DWI and DUI charges in Zilker and surrounding areas. Whether you’re facing your first offense or a repeat charge, our DWI Austin attorneys are ready to build a strong defense. Our skilled attorneys provide aggressive and strategic legal representation to protect your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Understanding DWI and DUI Charges in Zilker, Texas
DWI and DUI charges in Zilker can lead to severe consequences, including heavy fines, suspension of your driving privileges, and possible jail time. Texas law enforces strict penalties for impaired driving, and a conviction can have lasting effects on your life, both personally and professionally. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, a DWI Austin defense attorney can make the difference. At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we are committed to guiding you through the complexities of Texas law, reducing the impact of the charges, and working tirelessly to secure the best possible result for your case.
Zilker DWI and DUI Legal Definitions and Penalties
- Class B Misdemeanor: A typical DWI charge in Zilker is classified as a Class B misdemeanor when a driver operates a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances. A conviction for a Class B misdemeanor can result in mandatory jail time (at least 72 hours), fines, and mandatory alcohol education programs. Our DWI Austin team works to reduce or dismiss these charges.
- Enhanced Penalties for Open Containers: If law enforcement discovers an open container of alcohol in your vehicle during a DWI stop in Zilker, the charge will still be a Class B misdemeanor but with enhanced penalties. This can include a mandatory six-day jail sentence, which could significantly affect your defense strategy.
- Class A Misdemeanor: If your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) exceeds 0.15%, the charge may escalate to a Class A misdemeanor. This more severe charge carries higher fines, longer jail sentences, and additional penalties. Having an experienced attorney can help navigate these heightened consequences and protect your future.
What is the Legal BAC Limit in Zilker, Texas?
In Zilker, the legal BAC limit for drivers is 0.08%. However, even if your BAC is below this limit, you could still face DWI or DUI charges if law enforcement believes you were impaired. Breathalyzer tests are commonly used to measure BAC, but they can sometimes be inaccurate due to faulty equipment, improper calibration, or human error. These issues can provide a strong defense against wrongful charges.
Effective Defenses Against DWI/DUI Charges in Zilker, Texas
Challenging the Legality of the Traffic Stop
If law enforcement did not have a reasonable suspicion or probable cause to stop your vehicle, we can challenge the legality of the stop. If the stop is found to be unlawful, any evidence obtained during the stop may be inadmissible, potentially leading to the dismissal of the charges.
Questioning the Accuracy of the Breathalyzer Test
Breathalyzer tests are not always accurate. Problems such as malfunctioning equipment, improper calibration, or human error can lead to inaccurate results. Our legal team will carefully review the procedure and challenge any inconsistencies in the breathalyzer test.
Disputing the Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be influenced by factors such as weather conditions, fatigue, or medical issues. We will review how these tests were administered and challenge their validity if any irregularities occurred during the testing.
Medical Conditions as a Defense
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or acid reflux, can cause symptoms that resemble intoxication or interfere with breathalyzer results. Our attorneys collaborate with medical professionals to show how your condition may have affected the test results or led to the perception of impairment.
Pre-Trial Diversion Programs
If this is your first offense, you may be eligible for pre-trial diversion programs or deferred adjudication. These programs may help you avoid a conviction, and in some cases, the charges may be dismissed once you fulfill the program’s requirements.
DUI vs. DWI in Zilker, Texas: What’s the Difference?
DUI (Driving Under the Influence):
DUI charges are generally filed against drivers under 21 who have any detectable amount of alcohol in their system, even if they are not visibly impaired. DUI charges typically carry less severe penalties compared to DWI charges.
DWI (Driving While Intoxicated):
DWI charges apply when a driver is impaired by alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication. DWI charges carry more serious penalties, which is why having a strategic and focused defense is crucial to fighting these charges.
Factors That Can Increase DWI/DUI Penalties in Zilker, Texas
Several factors can result in harsher penalties for DWI or DUI offenses in Zilker, including:
- Having a child passenger under the age of 15
- Causing an accident resulting in injury or death
- Possessing an open container of alcohol in the vehicle
- Having prior DWI or DUI convictions
At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we understand these aggravating factors and will work diligently to minimize their impact on your case. If you’re searching for an experienced DWI Austin attorney, our team is here to protect your rights and future.
Why Choose The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC?
- Experience: Our attorneys have extensive experience defending DWI and DUI cases in Zilker and throughout Texas. We understand the nuances of Texas law and have a proven track record of successful outcomes for our clients.
- Aggressive Defense: We use aggressive defense strategies, exploring every legal avenue to protect your rights and ensure the best possible result for your case.
- Personalized Service: We recognize that each case is unique. Our defense strategies are tailored to your specific circumstances, ensuring you receive the most effective legal representation possible.
- Proven Results: The Law Office of Bryan Fagan has built a strong reputation for delivering favorable outcomes in DWI and DUI cases. Clients in Zilker trust us for our expertise, professionalism, and proven success.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
If you are facing DWI or DUI charges in Zilker, Texas, it is important to act quickly. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can start building your defense and protecting your rights.
📞 Contact The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC at 512-220-3593 or contact us online for a free 30-minute consultation. Our experienced DWI Austin attorneys are here to provide the legal guidance you need.
Don’t face DWI or DUI charges alone—let our legal team fight for you and guide you through the legal process to achieve the best possible result.