Consequences Of A DWI In Texas Go Beyond Fines And Jail Time
A driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge can affect more than your driving privileges. Even a first offense may put your job, finances and future at risk. Some problems can begin before your criminal case ends.
Nevertheless, knowing the consequences of a DWI in Texas can help you make informed decisions and protect your future. At The Sanchez Law Firm, we help clients in McAllen, Edinburg and throughout the Rio Grande Valley fight DWI charges. Attorney Sergio Sanchez is a former district attorney with over 20 years of criminal law experience. He understands what is at stake and works hard to protect your rights.
How Can A Texas DWI Affect Your Job?
Texas is an at-will employment state. This means employers can generally fire workers for many reasons, including a DWI arrest or conviction.
Depending on your job, a DWI may lead to:
- Job loss: Your employer may take action, especially if your work involves driving.
- Failed background checks: A criminal record may hurt your chances of finding a new job or earning a promotion.
- Driving restrictions: You may lose permission to use company vehicles.
- Commercial driving penalties: Commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders may face disqualification.
- Loss of delivery work: Rideshare and delivery companies may remove drivers who no longer meet their rules.
Even if you keep your job, losing your license can make getting to work difficult.
Can A DWI Affect Your Professional License?
Some careers require a state-issued license, and a DWI may put that license at risk. Texas licensing agencies, such as the Board of Nursing (BON), Texas Medical Board (TMB) and Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), have rules about criminal records.
Depending on your profession, you may face:
- A duty to report an arrest or conviction
- Disciplinary action or an investigation
- License suspension or renewal problems
- Limits on your professional duties
The rules vary by profession. Failing to report a DWI when required may cause further problems.
Higher Insurance Rates And Other DWI Costs
The financial impact of a DWI can last long after your case ends. Your insurance company may raise your rates or refuse to renew your policy. You may also need an SR-22 certificate to prove you have the required insurance.
Other possible expenses include:
- Driver’s license reinstatement fees
- Ignition interlock device costs
- Alcohol education programs
- Transportation costs during a license suspension
- Lost wages from missing work
Together, these costs can place a heavy burden on your household.
Security Clearances And Work Credentials
Some jobs require security clearances or special credentials, and a DWI may raise concerns during a background review. This can affect people working in government, defense, transportation or the energy industry. Workers who need Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) or military base access may also face extra checks.
A DWI does not always lead to disqualification. However, the circumstances of your case may affect your ability to keep certain job privileges.
Immigration And International Travel Problems
A DWI arrest or conviction can create problems for noncitizens, especially when applying for or renewing a visa. While a DWI does not automatically lead to deportation or visa denial, the outcome depends on the facts of the case. Speaking with an attorney before resolving your charges can help you understand the possible immigration consequences.
International travel may also become more difficult. For example, Canada may refuse entry to people with impaired driving convictions. A DWI record can also affect your eligibility for trusted traveler programs, such as Global Entry, making work and personal travel less convenient.
Child Custody And Family Law Concerns
A DWI may become an issue during a child custody dispute, especially if the other parent raises concerns about alcohol use or your child’s safety. Since Texas courts make custody decisions based on the child’s best interests, a judge may consider alcohol testing, supervised visits or changes to the parenting schedule. However, a single DWI does not automatically mean you will lose custody.
College And Scholarship Opportunities
Students may also face problems after a DWI arrest or conviction. Depending on school policies, they could face campus discipline or lose certain scholarships. A DWI record may also make it harder to qualify for internships, study abroad programs or careers that require professional licensing.
Your Reputation And Online Criminal Record
A DWI arrest may appear in public records, online reports and background checks, which can affect your reputation and future opportunities. Even if your case is dismissed, information about the arrest may remain available online.
However, some people may qualify to have their records cleared or sealed under Texas law. Your eligibility depends on how the case was resolved and other legal requirements.
Fight The Lasting Effects Of A DWI With Our McAllen Lawyer
A DWI charge does not have to define your future. Taking action early can help you protect your rights and explore your defense options.
At The Sanchez Law Firm, we review every part of your arrest. We look for problems with the traffic stop, police procedures and test results. Our goal is to challenge weak evidence and seek the best possible outcome.
Time matters. In many Texas DWI cases, you have only 15 days after receiving notice to request a hearing to challenge a driver’s license suspension.
Call 956-467-5766 or contact our McAllen office online for a free consultation. Let our experienced DWI defense lawyer help you protect your rights, your job and your future.