Plano DWI Lawyer

Fighting Mandatory Jail and Felony Enhancements in Collin County

Those who have been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) need to take immediate legal action. Why? Because those accused of DUI/DWI only have a limited amount of time to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing for the opportunity to determine whether or not their license will be suspended.

Acting promptly, with the help of a skilled DWI attorney in Plano, can make a difference in your options after an arrest.

The Law Office of Mac Morris can represent you during your hearing. Take the first step towards protecting your driving rights and call (972) 846-8214 or reach out online for a complimentary consultation.

DWI Laws in Plano, TX

Texas enforces strict DWI laws, and Plano follows state statutes with its own local enforcement priorities. In Plano, drivers face DWI charges with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, but even lower BAC levels can result in charges if the police believe someone is impaired. Penalties can include fines, community service, suspended licenses, and possible jail time.

Plano sits within Collin County, which processes a significant number of DWI cases annually due to proactive enforcement, particularly along major routes like U.S. Highway 75 and the Dallas North Tollway. Collin County courts work closely with the Texas Department of Public Safety during DWI arrests, which can affect how your case proceeds.

First-time offenders are typically directed to rehabilitation, with judges often requiring completion of alcohol education and intervention programs. Repeat offenses bring much harsher penalties, including potential felony charges. Working with a DWI lawyer familiar with Plano courts and their procedures gives you an advantage when challenging evidence or exploring plea agreements.

Types of Intoxication Offenses We Defend in Plano, TX

• Standard DWI 
• High BAC Enhancements
• 3rd or Subsequent Offense
• DWI Drug Offenses
• Felony DWI
• Felony DWI with Child Passenger
• Intoxication Assault and Manslaughter

Penalties and Consequences of a DWI Conviction in Texas

Being charged with a DWI can have severe legal and personal consequences. A conviction can impact your ability to drive, your criminal record, and your future opportunities. Our experienced Plano DWI attorneys help clients navigate Texas law and pursue solutions that limit the effects of a conviction.

Consequences of a DWI conviction may include:

• Driver's license suspension or revocation
• Heavy fines and court costs
• Possible jail time
• Increased insurance premiums
• Difficulty obtaining employment or housing

The repercussions go beyond initial court penalties. Many people face requirements to install an ignition interlock device for repeat convictions, complete court-ordered community service, or participate in substance abuse evaluations. 

Texas also places a surcharge on your license through the Texas Department of Public Safety, which adds yearly costs to maintain or renew driving privileges after a DWI. In Plano, as elsewhere in Texas, a conviction remains visible on background checks long after you finish the sentence.

A DWI conviction can also affect relationships and create social stigma. Seeking experienced legal guidance can make it easier to navigate these obstacles and protect your future. At Law Office of Mac Morris, we provide clear information and strategic solutions when facing these challenges.

Don't face these consequences alone. Contact the Law Office of Mac Morris for a free consultation to discuss your DWI situation and learn about your legal options.

The Legal Process for a DWI in Plano

In Plano, Texas, the legal process for a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charge involves several key steps:

• Arrest and Booking: Police may conduct roadside field sobriety tests. If they believe you are intoxicated, they will arrest you and take you to the police station, where booking includes collecting your information and fingerprints.
• Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Hearing: Following an arrest, you have 15 days to request an ALR hearing to contest your driver's license suspension. Missing this deadline can result in an automatic suspension.
• Arraignment: At your first court appearance, officials present the charges, and you enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
• Pretrial Proceedings: Your attorney reviews evidence, such as the legality of the stop or the accuracy of blood or breath tests, and may file motions with the court.
• Trial: If you cannot reach a plea agreement, the case goes to trial, where the prosecution and defense present arguments, and a judge or jury decides the verdict.
• Sentencing: If found guilty, the court imposes penalties. For a first DWI in Texas, sentencing may include fines of up to $2,000, jail time from 72 hours to 180 days, and a driver's license suspension lasting up to one year.

Every DWI case in the Plano area moves through the Collin County court system, usually starting at the Collin County Courthouse on Bloomdale Road in McKinney. 

Local procedures may include initial court settings where the judge will review probable cause for the arrest. Collin County prosecutors often use police body camera and dashcam footage from Plano officers, so your defense attorney must pay careful attention to both the procedure and how the county collects and presents evidence in court.

Probation & Alternative Sentencing for DWI in Collin County

Probation offers an alternative to jail for many first-time DWI cases in Plano and throughout Collin County. If the court grants probation—known as community supervision—you must meet strict conditions to remain out of jail. 

These terms often include regular check-ins with a probation officer, completing an alcohol abuse assessment, and attending approved education programs. The county can also require you to install an ignition interlock device if your BAC was high or if you have a previous conviction.

Depending on your history and the facts of your case, you may also receive alternative sentences such as community service, attending a Victim Impact Panel, or counseling for substance use. Collin County courts closely monitor participation, and even small violations can bring you before a judge. 

Our team works with you to clarify probation terms and support you as you move through each requirement. Understanding Collin County's expectations helps you complete probation successfully and focus on moving forward after a DWI charge.

Comprehensive DWI Defense in Collin County, Frisco, & McKinney

When you seek our help, you will be turning to a Plano DWI lawyer who has managed all types of DWI cases. We know DWI representation, and our case history demonstrates real results.

Every DWI situation is different. Some involve accidents, child passengers, or a prior DWI arrest. We examine details such as procedures for blood and breath testing at Collin County facilities, police conduct during your arrest, and whether officers used roadside field sobriety tests that followed state guidelines. If your case involves a high BAC or refusal to provide a specimen, we address those factors and their impact on the prosecution’s evidence.

In addition to defending you during ALR hearings, we provide thorough support through every step of the legal process. From arrest to the courtroom, our team handles technical issues such as evidence review, examining the legality of your stop or arrest, and challenging breath or blood test results. We work to create a defense that fits your specific circumstances, examining every possible angle to safeguard your rights.

Why Choose the Law Office of Mac Morris for Your DWI Defense

• We work closely with our clients and handle all the details of their cases.
• We create and implement personalized strategies.
• We have obtained successful results, which has led to satisfied clients.
• We can defend those accused of underage DUI/DWI.
• We can assist you in requesting an ALR hearing.
• We are experienced in providing a defense in DUI/DWI jury trials.

Choosing the right defense team can make a significant difference in your case result. We value clear communication and make sure you always know what comes next. Our commitment to thorough investigation and strong negotiation techniques helps achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.

Arrested for DWI? Protect Your License & Future Now! A skilled Plano DWI lawyer can fight for reduced charges or a dismissal. Call (972) 846-8214 today or contact us online for a FREE consultation!

FAQ: Common Questions About DWI Defense in Plano

What Should I Do Immediately After a DWI Arrest?

After a DWI arrest, remain calm and comply with law enforcement instructions. Contact a DWI attorney in Plano as soon as possible to review your case. Since you have only 15 days to request an ALR hearing to challenge license suspension in Texas, timing is crucial. Working with a lawyer early gives time to collect evidence and build your defense. Always speak with your attorney before giving statements because anything you say may be used in court.

How Can a DWI Impact My Employment?

A DWI charge can threaten your job, especially if you drive for work or your employer has strict conduct policies. A suspended license could make commuting difficult, and some employers may end employment after a conviction. Navigating the legal process strategically helps minimize these effects. By reducing penalties or fighting for a dismissal, Law Office of Mac Morris helps safeguard your long-term career and stability.

What Are Common Defenses Against DWI Charges?

The best DWI defense depends on the specifics of your arrest. Common approaches include challenging the reason for the initial traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of sobriety or BAC tests, and identifying procedural errors from police. Our attorneys dig into these issues and spot any violations of your rights during the arrest or testing. Each of these factors can weaken the prosecution's case and improve your chances for a favorable outcome.

Is It Worth Fighting a DWI Charge?

Fighting a DWI charge often makes sense because the consequences can be severe and long-lasting. A conviction can affect your insurance rates, job options, and personal life. By working with an experienced Plano DWI attorney, you increase the chances of reducing or dismissing the charges and protecting your future. The Law Office of Mac Morris provides strategic representation focused on your needs.

How Does the ALR Process Work in Texas?

The Administrative License Revocation (ALR) process runs separately from the criminal DWI charge but is critical to keep your license. After an arrest, you have 15 days to request a hearing. If you do not request one, the state automatically suspends your license after 40 days. At the ALR hearing, officials review whether police had probable cause to stop you and whether you failed or refused a chemical test. An experienced attorney can guide you through this process and identify any weaknesses in the state's case.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation Today

Facing the loss of your driving privileges or the prospect of jail time and harsh penalties can be stressful. We strive to secure the best available outcome for every individual we represent. Don’t let a DUI or DWI charge determine your future.

We remain committed throughout and after the legal process, providing the information you need and support for rebuilding your life post-trial. Drawing on years of experience, our team advises on education programs, community service, and other resources to help you move forward in Collin County and beyond.

For passionate and reliable legal representation for your DWI/DUI matter, contact us online or call (972) 846-8214 as soon as possible!