High BAC DWI Defense in Corpus Christi
Focused Review of a 0.15 BAC DWI Allegation
A DWI allegation involving a BAC of 0.15 or higher calls for close review of the test result and the procedures used to obtain it. At Robert J. Gonzalez, Attorney At Law, I handle DWI and other criminal defense matters for people in Corpus Christi. I examine the evidence, the timing of the test, and whether law enforcement followed required protocols.
I have provided legal guidance since 1984, drawing on my prior experience as a Texas prosecutor and Municipal Court Judge. These roles inform how I evaluate evidence and procedural decisions. Clients work directly with me and receive personalized attention as I assess the circumstances surrounding the charge.
My family-owned law firm serves people facing criminal allegations in Corpus Christi and the surrounding areas. Although a charge involving a BAC of 0.15 is sometimes described as an extreme DUI, Texas law uses the term DWI. More precisely, it’s a DWI charge enhanced because the reported BAC reached or exceeded 0.15.
Call (361) 309-9332 for a free, no-obligation consultation about a high BAC DWI charge and the immediate decisions ahead.
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What Makes Robert Gonzalez Different
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Dedicated Family FocusAs a family-owned law firm, we prioritize personalized care, treating each client like family. Trust us to navigate your legal journey with a commitment to your well-being and success.
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A Former Prosecutor on Your SideAs a former prosecutor, I have a unique understanding of both sides of the courtroom. I can anticipate the prosecution’s case against you and build a highly effective defense strategy accordingly. Allow me to help you with your future.
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Trusted & Recommended AttorneyOver the past three decades, I have earned a reputation for providing hard-hitting representation, individualized support and compassionate care to each of my clients.
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Free Confidential Case ConsultationsI aim to make the legal process as simple and painless as possible for clients. As such, I offer free consultations to help clients get started. Do not hesitate to get in touch with my law firm today to request your initial consultation.
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More Than 3 Decades of ExperienceWith my extensive legal experience and exceptional history of success in your corner, you may increase your chances of securing a favorable case outcome. Representing your rights is more than just a job to me, it is my passion. Put my experience to work for you today.
Texas Penalties for a DWI with a 0.15 BAC
Texas Penal Code Section 49.04(d) generally elevates a DWI to a Class A misdemeanor when analysis of blood, breath, or urine shows a BAC of 0.15 or more at the time of analysis. That timing matters because the specimen or breath sample is tested after the alleged driving occurred.
A standard first DWI is generally a Class B misdemeanor, with at least 72 hours of confinement and maximum penalties of 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. The 0.15 enhancement raises the classification and potential punishment even when the allegation involves a first offense.
The principal consequences associated with the enhanced charge include:
- Class A misdemeanor classification: The available punishment can include up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
- Misdemeanor status: A first-offense DWI based on a reported BAC of 0.15 or higher remains a misdemeanor rather than becoming a felony solely because of that result.
- Deferred adjudication restriction: Texas law bars deferred adjudication for DWI when the BAC was 0.15 or more. Deferred adjudication is a process in which a court postpones a finding of guilt while a defendant completes court-ordered conditions.
- State fine after conviction: A DWI conviction involving a BAC of 0.15 or more carries a $6,000 state fine under Texas Transportation Code provisions.
These are statutory ranges and consequences, not a prediction of what any particular case may produce. The applicable exposure depends on the filed allegation, the evidence, prior history, and other legally relevant circumstances.
Reviewing Evidence in a High BAC DWI Case
A reported test number doesn’t eliminate the need to examine how the evidence was obtained and handled. A BAC reading reflects the amount of alcohol in a sample at a particular time. Because the alleged driving happened earlier, the result and the surrounding timeline must be considered separately.
I examine BAC evidence and law enforcement protocols. Depending on whether the allegation rests on breath testing, blood testing, or another analysis, my review can address evidence collection, handling, testing procedures, and compliance with applicable requirements.
Evidence and procedures that may require review include:
- The time of the traffic stop, arrest, specimen collection, and analysis
- The method used to collect and preserve the sample
- The records associated with breath or blood testing
- The handling of the evidence between collection and analysis
- Law enforcement compliance with required procedures
A test result is only one part of the evidence. The prosecution still bears the burden of proving the charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt, which requires sufficient proof of every element of the charge. I evaluate the full evidentiary context rather than treating a single number as the entire case.
What Happens After a 0.15 BAC DWI Arrest in Corpus Christi
The criminal charge and driver’s license suspension process are separate matters. After a Texas DWI arrest, a person generally has 15 days from the arrest date to request an Administrative License Revocation hearing. This hearing provides an opportunity to contest the administrative suspension of driving privileges.
A first-offense 0.15 BAC misdemeanor is generally handled by the local Courts at Law at the county courthouse serving Corpus Christi. Court proceedings and the Administrative License Revocation process follow different tracks, so action in one doesn’t automatically resolve the other.
Case Evaluation & Immediate Decisions
During a free, no-obligation case evaluation, I can review the allegation, available evidence, and immediate decisions with you. The discussion can cover the reported test result, testing method, arrest timeline, court process, and approaching driver’s license deadline. You can also ask questions before deciding how to proceed.
Expected Case Timeline
Most cases resolve within six months to one year, although some take longer. The timeframe can depend on the investigation, discovery, applicable statute of limitations, and issues raised by the evidence. Discovery is the process of obtaining and reviewing case materials, and its scope can affect how long the proceedings remain pending.
Discuss Your High BAC DWI Charge Directly with Me
A focused evaluation can clarify the 0.15 BAC allegation, the separate license process, and the evidence that warrants closer review. I provide direct, personalized attention throughout the representation.
The contact form is also available to share information about the circumstances of your arrest.
Call (361) 309-9332 to request a free, no-obligation high BAC DWI case evaluation with Robert J. Gonzalez, Attorney At Law.