DWI with Drugs Attorney in Corpus Christi

A conviction for a DWI with drugs charge in Texas can result in a complex web of direct penalties and far-reaching collateral consequences that will impact your life for years to come. My role as your Corpus Christi DWI with drugs lawyer is to not only defend you against the direct criminal charges but also to help you understand and mitigate the non-criminal fallout of a potential conviction.

The severity of the penalties depends on the specific classification of the offense:

• First Offense (Class B Misdemeanor): Up to a $2,000 fine, 3 to 180 days in county jail, and a driver's license suspension of 90 days to one year.
• Second Offense (Class A Misdemeanor): Up to a $4,000 fine, 30 days to one year in county jail, and a driver's license suspension of 180 days to two years.
• Third or Subsequent Offense (Third-Degree Felony): Up to a $10,000 fine, 2 to 10 years in state prison, and a driver's license suspension of 180 days to two years.

These are just the direct penalties. A DWI with drugs conviction can also lead to court-mandated DWI education or intervention programs, a required ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle, and annual surcharges of up to $2,000 for three years to maintain your driver's license. The costs, both financial and personal, are astronomical.

Collateral Consequences

A criminal record for a DWI can make it incredibly difficult to find employment, obtain professional licenses, or secure housing. Many employers and professional licensing boards have zero-tolerance policies for these convictions, and landlords often deny rental applications to those with a criminal record.

Additionally, a felony DWI conviction will result in a permanent ban on owning or possessing a firearm. For non-citizens, a conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.

Building a Strategic Defense Against DWI with Drugs Charges

Every case is unique, and I develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. As a seasoned Corpus Christi DWI with drugs lawyer, I will leverage every possible defense, including:

• Challenging the Traffic Stop: If the police officer did not have a valid reason to pull you over, the entire stop may be deemed illegal, and all evidence collected as a result may be suppressed.
• Disputing Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): These tests are notoriously unreliable, especially when drugs are involved. I can argue that your performance was affected by medical conditions, fatigue, or environmental factors rather than intoxication.
• Questioning Drug Recognition Experts (DREs): DREs are not infallible. I can challenge the validity of their conclusions and their training, especially because the DRE protocol is not based on universally accepted scientific principles.
• Contesting Chemical Test Results: The presence of a drug metabolite in your system does not necessarily mean you were impaired at the time of driving. I can challenge the timing of the test and the methodology used by the lab, arguing that the results do not prove intoxication.

Robert J. Gonzalez, Attorney At Law's Proven Track Record

Since 1984, our firm has built a trusted reputation in the Corpus Christi community. Clients choose us not only for our legal acumen but also for our commitment to personalized service. We understand the stress that legal challenges bring, and we're dedicated to offering reassurance and clarity throughout the process. Our initial consultations are risk-free, allowing you to discuss your case openly without financial obligation.

Having served the community for decades, our extensive courtroom experience has yielded a deep network of professional contacts, from expert witnesses to local officials, which can be crucial in fortifying your defense strategy. Over the years, Robert J. Gonzalez has been able to foster these connections, enabling us to approach each case with comprehensive resources and insights. We continuously strive to maintain the trust and loyalty of our community, as evidenced by the numerous referrals and repeat clients who seek our services.

Contact Robert J. Gonzalez, Attorney At LawToday

If you’re confronting a DWI with drugs charge, the guidance of a knowledgeable attorney can significantly ease your burden. At Robert J. Gonzalez, Attorney At Law, we offer insights and solutions tailored to each client's needs. Our local expertise in Corpus Christi means you're in qualified hands. 

Don’t face this challenge alone—contact us online now or call at (361) 309-9332 for effective legal support and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during the initial consultation?

Your first consultation is private and free of charge. We’ll go over the circumstances of your arrest, answer your questions, and discuss possible legal defenses. You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of your situation and how our firm can help you fight the charges.

Can I be charged even if I had a valid prescription?

Yes. In Texas, you can still be charged with DWI with drugs if a substance—prescribed or otherwise—impaired your ability to operate a vehicle safely. However, the presence of a prescription may open the door for specific legal defenses, which our firm can explore in your case.

What if I refused a blood or urine test?

Refusing chemical testing can result in automatic license suspension under Texas’s implied consent laws. However, we may still challenge the suspension and the overall validity of the arrest, depending on the circumstances. Early legal intervention is key to protecting your driving privileges and building a solid defense.

Will a DWI with drugs conviction stay on my record permanently?

In many cases, a conviction will remain on your criminal record. However, depending on the outcome, expungement or orders of non-disclosure might be available. We’ll evaluate whether you qualify for record-clearing options after your case concludes.