Denton Criminal Defense Lawyer

Difference Between DUI and DWI

Texas is one of the few states that distinguishes between DWI and DUI, and a lot of people may not know what the distinction is. It can be frightening to find yourself charged with either, but it is important to understand what, exactly, you are being charged with so that you can properly respond to the charges.

What Is a DWI?

If you have been found to have a blood alcohol content of over .08 percent, or are found to have drugs in your system, you can be charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). Additionally, if you are found to be mentally or physically impaired while operating a vehicle, you can be charged with a DWI. If it is your first offense, it is a Class B Misdemeanor. If convicted, you may face the following consequences:

• Possible jail time. If an open container of alcohol was present, the minimum jail sentence is six days.
• The suspension of your license for no fewer than 90 days.
• You will be required to attend a study program.

Additional convictions get even more serious. Your driver's license will be suspended for at least two years, and jail time can be longer.

What Is a DUI?

Unlike DWI, though, Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a charge specifically for minors found to be under the influence of any amount of alcohol. Officers will often use this to pull over under-aged drivers they suspect are operating under the influence of alcohol. Although less serious than a DWI, a first-time DUI offense is a Class C misdemeanor, which has the following consequences:

• A maximum fine of $500
• Probation, often in the form of community service
• The probable suspension of your license

Contact Us

If you or someone close to you has been charged with either a DUI or a DWI, it is important to get legal representation. Contact the Denton criminal defense lawyers of Alexander & Associates by calling 972-420-6560.