Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)

It is against the law in Texas to operate a motor vehicle (watercraft or aircraft, too) in a public place while intoxicated. No responsible lawyer or other person will ever advocate that it is OK to drink and drive. If you want to drink in Texas, do not drive. Have a designated driver!!

“Intoxicated” in Texas means not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties by reason of the introduction of alcohol, a controlled substance, a drug, a dangerous drug, a combination of two or more of those substances, or any other substance into the body, or having an alcohol concentration (measured by a breathalyzer, most commonly) of 0.08 or more.

If convicted of driving while intoxicated for the first time, you may be subject to confinement in the county jail for a period of up to six months, and pay an additional fine not to exceed $2,000. This will be in addition to court costs, increases in your insurance premiums, and possible loss of license.

Generally speaking, a 120 lb. person can consume up to three ounces of 86 proof alcohol or approximately three-12 ounce beers within a one hour period and be right at the 0.08 legal limit. A 200 lb. person, on the other hand, can consume up to five ounces of 86 proof alcohol or approximately five-12 ounce beers within a one hour period to be right at the 0.08 legal limit.

The Law Offices of Thomas A. Martin represents clients throughout Southeast Texas, including the cities of Houston, Galveston, Memorial, River Oaks, West University, Clear Lake, League City, Sugar Land, Pearland, Beaumont, Hempstead, Katy, Conroe, and all the communities in Brazoria County, Chambers County, Fort Bend County, Galveston County, Harris County, Jefferson County, Liberty County, Montgomery County, and Waller County.