Have you been charged with a felony DWI in Fort Worth, Texas? You have rights. Call Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers at (682) 777-3336 to schedule a confidential consultation. Our Fort Worth felony DWI attorneys will protect your rights and spearhead your defense.
We have decades of combined experience defending clients against serious DWI allegations, including third-time DWIs and other felony-level intoxication offenses. When the stakes are this high, having an experienced felony DWI lawyer is critical. We offer private consultations to help you understand your rights.
Why Choose Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers for a Felony DWI in Fort Worth, TX?
Felony DWI cases are serious. Prosecutors rely heavily on prior convictions and sentencing enhancements that can drastically increase punishment. You need a defense team with deep experience in both DWI law and serious felony litigation.
At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, we are known statewide for handling high-risk criminal cases.
Clients trust our Fort Worth felony DWI lawyers because we offer:
- Two attorneys board-certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization — an elite distinction held by only a small percentage of Texas lawyers
- A multidisciplinary legal team that includes former prosecutors, a former magistrate judge, a former federal public defender, and a law professor.
- Extensive experience litigating complex DWI cases involving prior convictions.
- Personalized representation and clear communication at every stage of your case
Our Fort Worth, TX legal team is ready to stand up for you. Call us today for a confidential case review with a Fort Worth criminal defense lawyer.
Overview of Felony DWI Charges in Texas
Texas uses the term Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) for intoxication-related driving offenses.
A driver may be charged with DWI if they are 21 or older and:
- Have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or
- Lack the normal use of mental or physical faculties due to alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances
While first- and second-time DWIs are typically misdemeanors, certain circumstances can elevate a DWI to a felony offense.
When Does a DWI Become a Felony in Texas?
A DWI may be charged as a felony if:
- You have two or more prior DWI convictions
- The alleged offense involved serious bodily injury to another person
- The incident resulted in a fatality
- A child passenger under 15 years old was in the vehicle
Texas does not have a look-back or washout period. Prior DWI convictions count forever, even if they occurred decades ago.
Penalties for Felony DWI in Fort Worth, Texas
Felony DWI penalties depend on the specific charge level, but they are almost always severe.
A third DWI includes:
- Includes 2 to 10 years in Texas prison, with a fine of up to $10,000.
- Driver’s license suspension of 180 days to 2 years
Intoxication assault includes:
- 2 to 10 years in prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Mandatory license suspension
Intoxication manslaughter (second-degree felony) includes
- 2 to 20 years in prison
- Fine of up to $10,000
- Long-term or permanent license consequences
In addition to incarceration and fines, felony DWI convictions can result in ignition interlock requirements and long-term collateral consequences. An experienced attorney can help you understand the potential penalties for the charges you’re facing.
What Types of Defenses Are Available in Fort Worth Felony DWI Cases
A felony DWI arrest does not mean a conviction is automatic.
There are many ways to challenge the state’s case, including asserting:
Illegal Traffic Stop
If law enforcement lacked reasonable suspicion or probable cause to stop your vehicle, evidence gathered after the stop may be suppressed.
Invalid Prior Convictions
For enhancement purposes, the state must prove valid prior DWI convictions. Errors can prevent a misdemeanor from being elevated to a felony.
Problems with Blood or Breath Evidence
Felony DWI cases often rely on blood draws. Chain-of-custody issues and contamination can all undermine the reliability of chemical test results.
Lack of Proof of Intoxication
The prosecution must prove intoxication at the time of driving. Medical conditions or prescription medications can mimic signs of impairment.
Every felony DWI case is unique. An experienced Fort Worth DWI lawyer can help you find the defense(s) that are right for you.
Contact Our Fort Worth Felony DWI Lawyers Today for a Confidential Consultation
A felony DWI charge can affect the rest of your life. Prison time and loss of driving privileges are all real possibilities, but they are not automatic.
Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers has the experience and resources to fight felony DWI charges at every level. We have decades of proven success getting favorable results.
Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation with a Fort Worth felony DWI attorney and begin building your defense immediately.
