
Fort Bend County DWI Attorney
Protecting Your Future with 40+ Years' Experience
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a very serious offense. Local Fort Bend County law enforcement works hard to ensure that drivers are operating under safe conditions and to keep the roadway free of drunk or drugged drivers by always being on the lookout for intoxicated behavior. Routine traffic stops and driving while intoxicated (DWI) checkpoints have become more common over the years, and in 2010, more than 90,000 people were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
If you’ve been arrested for a DWI, we understand what is at stake. Should you hire the legal services provided at our firm, you will see firsthand the dedication we have for each DWI case. Our Fort Bend County DWI attorneys have 40 years of combined legal experience and will work tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome on your behalf.
If you've been arrested and charged with DWI in Fort Bend County, put us on your side by calling (281) 232-0505 a Fort Bend County DWI defense lawyer today.
DWI Charges We Handle
In Fort Bend County, common types of DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charges include:
- Standard DWI: Driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, typically resulting in fines, license suspension, and possible jail time.
- DWI with a Child Passenger: Driving intoxicated with a child passenger under 15 years old, leading to more severe penalties, including a state jail felony charge.
- DWI with Prior Convictions: A repeat offense where previous DWI convictions lead to harsher penalties, such as longer suspensions and higher fines.
- Aggravated DWI: A DWI with aggravating factors like a BAC of 0.15% or higher or causing injury, resulting in harsher penalties.
- DWI in a Construction Zone: Driving intoxicated in a construction zone, carrying additional fines and longer license suspensions.
- DWI with a Drugged Driver: Driving under the influence of drugs, leading to charges similar to alcohol-related DWI but for drug impairment.
- Underage DWI: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs as a minor, typically leading to fines, license suspension, and educational programs.
- Commercial DWI: Driving a commercial vehicle under the influence, resulting in higher BAC thresholds for violations and stricter penalties.
The consequences of a DWI conviction in Texas can be severe, and you need an experienced attorney who will fight for your rights. At Rosen & Kovach, PLLC, we have years of experience defending clients against DWI charges in Fort Bend County and throughout Texas.
What Are The Penalties For DWI Convictions in Texas?
In Texas, a person is considered legally intoxicated and can be arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) when their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08% or greater. However, a person can be considered impaired by drugs or alcohol regardless of their BAC. Under Texas law, whether you are the driver or the passenger, you can be fined up to $500 for having an open alcohol container in a vehicle.
Under Texas Penal Code §49.04, drunk or drugged driving laws clearly state that any person operating a vehicle under the influence of a substance that can greatly impair their judgment, driving skills, and reaction time may be charged with a DWI.
First DWI Offense
- Up to $2,000 in fines
- From 3 days to 180 days in jail
- Up to one year driver's license suspension
- Annual fee ranging between $1,000 and $2,000 for three years to retain your driver's license
Second DWI Offense
- Up to $4,000 fine
- One month to one year in jail
- Up to two years loss of driver's license
- Annual fee of $1,000, $1,500, or $2,000 for three years to retain your driver's license
Third DWI Offense
- A fine of $10,000
- From 2 to 10 years in prison
- Up to two years loss of driver's license
- Annual fee of $1,000, $1,500, or $2,000 for three years to retain your driver's license
When a driver has two or more DWI convictions within a five-year time period, they are required to install a special ignition switch that prevents their vehicle from operating if they have been drinking.
Whether you've been arrested for a first-time DWI offense, BWI, or felony DWI, there are a number of DWI offenses that may apply to your case. With over 30 years of experience working in criminal law and as a former prosecutor, I am fully prepared to aggressively defend your case. To challenge your DWI charges and fight for your driving privileges, I urge you to contact me and our other Fort Bend DWI attorneys at the Rosen & Kovach, PLLC right away!
What Are Potential Defenses for Charges of Driving Under the Influence?
DWI charges can severely alter a person's life. After an arrest and charge for driving while intoxicated, you must retain legal counsel from a dedicated DWI attorney in Fort Bend County. Regardless of the offense, whether this is your first DWI charge, you are a repeat offender, or you have been charged with DW under the age of 21, our firm can help.
Although you cannot plead to a lesser offense in the state of Texas, you may be able to protect your driving privileges at an ALR hearing. These hearings happen quickly after your arrest, and you only have 10 days after your arrest to retain legal counsel before the hearing, so it is imperative that you work with our DWI law firm right away.
Engaging a knowledgeable DWI attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Our firm utilizes a proactive approach, thoroughly investigating the details surrounding your arrest, scrutinizing the actions of law enforcement, and exploring potential procedural mistakes that can be pivotal in your defense. Our strategy always includes examining all available evidence, including dashcam footage and witness statements, to construct a comprehensive defense tailored to your circumstances.
Why Hire an Experienced DWI Lawyer?
When you’ve been arrested for DWI, it can be a scary, stressful situation. You may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your legal rights and options. The best choice you can make is to hire an experienced DWI defense attorney who will fight for your rights and ensure that you have the strongest case possible.
Here are the benefits of hiring a Fort Bend County DWI lawyer:
- A DWI attorney can help you understand the legal implications of a an arrest.
- A DWI lawyer can review charges, evidence, and any potential mitigating or aggravating factors necessary in determining an appropriate course of action.
- A DWI attorney will also be able to tell you if there are any applicable defenses that may apply to your case.
- A DWI lawyer can negotiate on your behalf with prosecutors for reduced penalties or even alternative sentencing options.
- A DWI attorney is aware of steps that must be taken to protect your rights throughout the process.
Hiring a seasoned DWI lawyer is not just about navigating the charges; it's about having a strategic partner committed to seeking the best possible resolution. With Rosen & Kovach, PLLC's in-depth understanding of Texas DWI laws and robust defense methodologies, you can trust that your case is in capable hands.
Ensuring Your Rights Are Protected After DWI Charges
When you work with Rosen & Kovach, PLLC, we will challenge the evidence of the DWI charge and fight for your freedoms and ensure that your rights are protected. Even if you are charged with a felony DWI, multiple DWI or intoxicated manslaughter, you can rest assured that your case will be in good hands. Our lawyers at our DWI law firm have 40 years of combined legal experience in assisting clients to achieve a favorable outcome for their criminal cases.
If you have questions or concerns regarding your situation and how working with Rosen & Kovach can greatly benefit your case, do not hesitate to contact our firm today. We offer free case evaluations to all potential clients that are risk-free and confidential. For a DUI lawyer near you, call our Fort Bend DUI law firm at (281) 232-0505.
Facing charges for DWI? Contact a Fort Bend County DWI attorney from my firm and schedule your appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions About DWI in Fort Bend County
What Should I Do Immediately After a DWI Arrest?
After a DWI arrest in Fort Bend County, it's essential to remain calm and comprehend your legal rights. Avoid admitting guilt or making statements without an attorney present. Remember, the first 10 days post-arrest are crucial as you will need to request an ALR hearing to contest any driver's license suspension. Contact a qualified DWI attorney in Fort Bend County promptly, as they will guide you on gathering evidence and build a strong defense strategy to protect your driving privileges and fight your charges effectively.
What Are the Penalties for a First-Time DWI?
There is no question that being arrested for DWI (driving while intoxicated) is a very serious offense in the state of Texas. If you are convicted of a first-time DWI you may face penalties including up to 180 days in jail, fines up to $2,000, and the mandatory revocation of your driver's license for at least 90 days.
When you consult with a Fort Bend County DWI lawyer at the Rosen & Kovach, PLLC, you are getting more than 30 years’ experience on your side. When it comes to your defense, you can count on the fact that we are committed to doing everything possible to see that your rights are protected and your freedom is preserved during your DWI case.
Can I Refuse a Breathalyzer Test in Texas?
In Texas, you can refuse to take a breathalyzer test; however, this could lead to immediate legal consequences under the state's implied consent laws. Refusal could result in an automatic driver's license suspension. This period can be contested with the assistance of a legal professional through an ALR hearing. An attorney can navigate the complexities of refusal consequences, ensuring that your legal rights remain protected while providing advice on the best steps forward in handling the aftermath.
How Can an Experienced Attorney Help With My DWI Case?
An experienced attorney is invaluable in navigating the complexities associated with DWI cases. They offer a thorough assessment of the evidence, identify possible procedural errors, and develop a customized defense strategy tailored to your unique situation. At Rosen & Kovach, PLLC, our attorneys are well-versed in local Fort Bend County laws and have the ability to negotiate with prosecutors, aiming to reduce penalties wherever possible. This comprehensive legal support is designed to mitigate the severe consequences that accompany DWI charges.
What Are the Long-Term Implications of a DWI Conviction?
A DWI conviction can have far-reaching effects beyond immediate legal penalties. It may impact employment opportunities, as many employers conduct background checks. Additionally, insurance premiums might increase, and personal relationships could suffer due to the perceived stigma of a conviction. Legal aid from a seasoned DWI attorney can help mitigate these outcomes by exploring options for expungement where applicable and providing long-term support aimed at minimizing future repercussions on one's life.
What Are the Common Mistakes Made by Those Charged With DWI?
A common mistake made after being charged with DWI is not securing legal representation quickly enough, which can result in missed opportunities to contest evidence or procedural missteps. Another error is underestimating the severity of the charge, leading individuals to make uninformed decisions without consulting a legal professional. Engaging an experienced Fort Bend County DWI lawyer promptly ensures a well-structured defense, which is critical in addressing these challenges head-on and steering towards a more favorable legal outcome.
"John made things happen!"John Kovach represented me in two cases in which both were dismissed and jail time was avoided.
- Katelyn




You Need a Fighter on Your Side
Why Choose Rosen & Kovach, PLLC
