Corpus Christi DWI Lawyer

BEST DWI LAWYER IN CORPUS CHRISTI

Driving While Intoxicated is a serious charge. If you are facing a DWI in Nueces County the stakes are high. DWI charges impact driving privileges, second amendment rights, employment, college admissions, and travel. Every person facing a DWI charge is facing jail time.

Outcomes matter when your life and liberty are on the line. You can’t win if you don’t fight, and you cannot fight alone.

Corpus Christi DWI Lawyer



Trey Porter is a dynamic advocate, nationally recognized for his work in Criminal Defense. Voted by his peers as a best lawyer in the field of Criminal and DWI Defense every year since 2015, Mr. Porter is recognized as a Texas SuperLawyer, and distinguished as a Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers Association. Mr. Porter holds a Superb rating from AVVO, where attorneys are rated based on skillful litigation, client satisfaction, peer endorsements, and positive results. Learn more.

  • Do I need a lawyer for a DWI in Corpus Christi? Yes. Every person facing criminal prosecution needs counsel. An experienced DWI attorney works to protect and preserve your rights. Having the best legal representation can yield the best results in a criminal case. Learn more.
  • Can a DWI be dismissed in Corpus Christi? DWI charges can be dismissed by challenging the State’s evidence. DWI arrests are warrantless arrests. Officers must establish reasonable suspicion and probable cause in every case, every time, without exception. A powerful defense reviews all evidence to leverage mistakes or weaknesses into a dismissal or reduction. Learn more. 

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU GET YOUR FIRST DWI IN CORPUS CHRISTI?

After being arrested for DWI in Corpus Christi, everyone is eventually taken to the Nueces County Jail, located at 901 Leopard St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 in downtown Corpus Christi, for processing and an eventual appearance before a magistrate judge. Magistrate judges set bond amounts and other conditions of release.

This process is slow, impractical, and frustrating. In Corpus Christi, it often takes 8-10 months from jail release before a DWI case is resolved.

best Corpus Christi DWI Lawyer

  • What to expect after arrest for DWI in Nueces County? The wheels of justice turn slowly in Corpus Christi. However, there are fast-moving deadlines that require professional attention almost immediately after being arrested. There are only 15 days to contest the automatic driver’s license suspension. The contest is important, and should not be missed. Learn more.
  • What happens on the first court date in Texas? The first court date is called arraignment in Texas. The first court date is a short, formal appearance where the judge ensures the defendant knows the charge(s) and is represented by counsel. Missing this court date will result in additional criminal charges. It is important to seek legal counsel ahead of these early dates and deadlines. Learn more.
  • How do you get out of a DWI charge in Corpus Christi? Getting out of a DWI charge requires challenging the State’s evidence, applying relevant Texas law, and relentlessly looking for an opportunity to leverage a State weakness or error into a defense advantage. Learn more.



    Nothing is more important than protecting your freedom and future. Retaining the best Corpus Christi DWI lawyer puts you in the strongest position possible to obtain a dismissal or reduction. Learn more. 

HOW DO I GET MY LICENSE BACK AFTER A DWI IN CORPUS CHRISTI?

Driving privileges are subject to suspension after a DWI charge in Texas, but they are not immediately suspended. A replacement driver’s license can be requested from the Texas Department of Public Safety online. Getting your license card back does not prevent a suspension, and it does not serve as a request for an administrative hearing. Learn more.

top rated Corpus Christi DWI Lawyer

  • Do you lose your license for first DWI in Nueces County? Yes. Driving privileges are suspended after an arrest for DWI in Nueces County. The suspension does not come from a Nueces county judge, however. Texas DPS administratively suspends driving privileges for everyone charged with DUI in Texas.

  • Can you drive with a suspended license in Nueces county? No. It is illegal to drive a motor vehicle with a suspended license in Texas. Driving with a suspended license while a DWI is pending in Nueces County Court can result in bond revocation and additional criminal charges.



    An Occupational License is the only way to legally drive during a period of suspension in Texas. Learn more. 

IS YOUR LICENSE AUTOMATICALLY SUSPENDED AFTER A DUI IN CORPUS CHRISTI?

Every person charged with DWI in Texas faces an automatic Administrative License Revocation (ALR) suspension of their driving privileges. The suspension takes effect approximately 40 days from the date of arrest. Learn more.

The ALR hearing is the only chance to contest the suspension. The ALR hearing is an important part of DWI defense and should never be skipped over. Learn more.

  • How do I get my license back after a DWI in Corpus Christi? If your license card is confiscated, you may request a new license through the Texas DPS website. If your license is suspended, you may be eligible for an Occupational Driver License. Learn more.
  • What is ALR hearing for Corpus Christi DWI? Everyone charged with DWI in Nueces County faces an automatic administrative license revocation (ALR). After an ALR suspension takes effect, it is illegal to drive. The suspension takes effect approximately 40 days from the date of arrest. The ALR hearing is the one and only chance to contest the suspension. Learn more.

  • How long is your license suspended for a DWI in Corpus Christi? Driving privileges are suspended for 90 – 180 days after an arrest for DWI. Commercially licensed drivers face significantly longer periods of suspension. Learn more.

HOW LIKELY IS JAIL TIME FOR FIRST CORPUS CHRISTI DWI?

Jail time is a real, legal possibility for first-time DWI offenders. The range of incarceration faced depends on a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC). The maximum jail sentence for DWI 1st in Corpus Christi is 12 months unless enhanced by aggravating factors. Learn more.

  • What is the penalty for first-time DWI in Nueces County? A first-time DWI charge in Nueces County is a Class B misdemeanor. The maximum fine is $3,000.00, and the maximum jail sentence is 6 months. A conviction for this offense is permanent, and results in a driver license suspension. Aggravating factors can enhance the penalties for DWI in Texas. Learn more.

  • What is the punishment for the DWI in Corpus Christi? Punishment for a DWI is either probation or jail time. There is no minimum probation period. The maximum period of incarceration for misdemeanor DWI charges is one year, and 10 years for felony DWI charges. Learn more.



    The punishment a person receives is largely impacted by the representation they choose. A powerful, experienced defense can make the difference between a dismissal and a conviction. Learn more.
  • Is the first DWI a felony in Corpus Christi? A first-time DWI charge in Comal county is a Class B misdemeanor. However, aggravating factors like serious bodily injury or the presence of a child passenger under 15 years old can result in felony charges. Learn more.

WHAT ARE PENALTIES FOR DWI IN CORPUS CHRISTI?

The penalties for DWI in Corpus Christi are serious. DWI penalties include jail time up to one year for first-time offenders, driver’s license suspension, restricted second amendment and travel rights, and thousands of dollars in fines. Additionally, a permanent criminal conviction can have lifelong consequences on professional licenses, college admissions, and security clearances. Learn more.

It is critical to avoid a conviction for DWI in Texas at all costs. Learn more.

corpus christi dwi lawyer

  • What are the penalties for a Nueces County misdemeanor DWI? All first-time DWI charges in Corpus Christi are Class B misdemeanors, though they can be enhanced by certain factors. DWI first-time offenders face up to 1 year in jail, up to $6,000.00 in fines, loss of driving privileges, loss of constitutional rights, and the far-reaching repercussions of a permanent criminal conviction. Learn more.

  • What are the penalties for Class B DWI charge in Corpus Christi? DWI with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) below 0.14 is a Class B misdemeanor. This categorization does not change if drugs are found in the blood analysis. The maximum fine for this offense is $3,000.00, and the maximum jail sentence is 6 months. A conviction for this offense is permanent, and results in a driver license suspension. Learn more.
  • Is a .15 or higher a DWI in Corpus Christi? DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or higher is a Class A misdemeanor in Texas. The maximum fine is $6,000.00, and the maximum jail sentence is 12 months. A conviction for this offense is permanent, and results in a driver license suspension. Learn more.
  • What are the penalties for DWI with Open Container in Nueces County? DWI with an Open Container is a Class A or B misdemeanor, depending on a person’s BAC, falling into the same punishment ranges as set forth above. However, a person convicted of this offense faces a minimum of 6 days in jail because of the Open Container enhancement. Learn more.

DWI 2ND CONSEQUENCES IN CORPUS CHRISTI

Everyone released on bond for DWI 2nd in Nueces county is required to install the ignition interlock device in all vehicles they drive. This is expensive and inconvenient. Additionally, jail time is a requirement of punishment for DWI 2nd – even if probation is granted. Learn more.

  • How much does a second DUI cost? The maximum fine for a DWI 2nd offense in Corpus Christi is $6,000.00. Court costs, probation, and pretrial fees can add thousands of more dollars to the total amount a person could be required by law to pay for a DWI 2nd in Nueces county.
  • Can you go to jail for DWI 2nd in Corpus Christi? Yes, jail time is a real possibility for everyone facing a DWI 2nd charge. The maximum period of incarceration is 1 year in the Nueces County Jail. Learn more.

DWI vs DUI IN NUECES COUNTY

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a Class C misdemeanor in Texas. DUI only applies to minors under 21. Minors are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle with any detectable alcohol in their system, making the legal limit for a DUI charge 0.0. Learn more.

  • Can Corpus Christi DUI charges be dismissed? DUI charges can be dismissed in Texas. Never plead guilty to a DUI charge. There are multiple legal pathways to dismissal. DUI dismissal is the first step towards deleting the entire incident through expunction. Learn more.
  • Can you avoid jail time for a 1st DUI in Nueces county? Yes, jail can be avoided for a DUI charge in Nueces County, Texas. DUI is a Class C misdemeanor, and jail is not legally available as a punishment for first-time offenders. Learn more. 

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR JAIL RELEASE AFTER DWI ARREST IN NUECES COUNTY?

Jail release in Corpus Christi can take up to, and sometimes longer than, 24 hours. It’s a difficult, time-consuming process.

  • How much is bail for a DWI in Corpus Christi? Bail for first-time DWI charges in Texas rarely exceeds $5,000.00. This is the first of many costs associated with the Texas DWI process. Judges have total discretion over bond amounts. Learn more. 

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE COST OF A DWI IN CORPUS CHRISTI?

Being charged with DWI is expensive. Being convicted can be financially devastating. It’s impossible to put a price on what it’s worth to avoid incarceration and the potential of a permanent criminal conviction. Learn more.

  • DWI in Corpus first offense cost? The maximum fine for a first DWI offense in Texas is $6,000.00. The total damage a permanent criminal conviction has on job opportunities and lost income is incalculable. Learn more.

  • How much is a DWI lawyer in Corpus Christi? Fighting a DWI costs thousands of dollars. In Corpus, even first-time offenders can face up to 365 days in jail. Good lawyers are attentive to communication, detailed and focused with strategy, and often get the best results for their clients. Learn more.
  • How much does a DWI Cost in Nueces County, Texas? The maximum fine for a first or second DWI offense in Texas is $6,000.00. The maximum fine for a felony DWI is $10,000.00. An effective DWI lawyer can fight for dismissal and work to mitigate consequences, saving time and money, potentially preserving your career and reputation. Learn more.

HOW DO YOU BEAT A DWI IN CORPUS CHRISTI?

DWI charges in Nueces county can be beaten. Leveraging powerful constitutional rights – like the Sixth Amendment’s Confrontation Clause – can have a devastating effect on the State’s case. The Nueces County District Attorney cannot legally obtain a conviction in a case where necessary evidence has been suppressed by a judge. Learn more.

  • How to get a DWI dismissed in Corpus Christi? Challenging the State’s evidence is the most effective way to dismiss a Corpus Christi DWI charge, whether it’s a DWI first-offense, DWI 2nd, or even a felony DWI 3rd or more. If a judge suppresses evidence, the State cannot use it to prosecute. Learn more.
  • What are the chances of DWI dismissal in Nueces County? DWI charges are dismissed everyday in Nueces county courtrooms. Charges are not dismissed through goodwill or luck, rather they are dismissed because a powerful defense forced the State prosecutors to dismiss the charge. Challenging evidence is a critical part of obtaining a dismissal. Learn more.

HOW LONG DOES DWI STAY ON YOUR RECORD?

A DWI charge from Corpus Christi or anywhere in Texas stays on the record forever. If the charge was dismissed without probation, it is eligible for removal and deletion through expunction. If the charge resulted in a conviction, it may be eligible to be sealed through an order of nondisclosure. Learn more.

  • Can a DWI be expunged from the record? Dismissed DWI charges may be deleted through the legal process of expunction. Charges not eligible for expunction may still qualify for an order of nondisclosure, which has the effect of sealing the record. Learn more.

  • How long does a DWI stay on your driving record? DWI charges stay on a person’s Texas driving history forever. In qualifying situations, the charge can be removed from the public record through an expunction. Learn more. 

WHAT BAC IS CONSIDERED DWI IN CORPUS CHRISTI?

The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Texas is 0.08. Blood alcohol levels that exceed this amount are over the legal alcohol limit for driving a motor vehicle in Texas. Learn more.

  • What BAC level is considered DUI in Texas? 0.1 is the legal limit for DUI in Texas. DUI only applies to minors in Texas. The legal alcohol limit for adults in Texas is 0.08. BAC is not required for DWI in Texas. Police regularly arrest motorists based on field sobriety tests and other factors without offering a breath or blood test. Learn more.

BEST DWI LAWYER IN CORPUS CHRISTI | NUECES COUNTY, TEXAS

Trey Porter Law represents people facing Intoxication & DWI charges in Corpus Christi and Nueces County, as well as the surrounding areas of Aransas Pass, Port Lavaca, Rockport, and San Patricio.

Standing up for the citizen accused, from students to teachers, veterans to first responders, and professionals across varied industries and disciplines, TPL brings a results-oriented & client-focused approach to solving complex problems. 

CORPUS CHRISTI DWI RESOURCES

Access to information is important when dealing with a criminal charge. The following entities play an important role in the Corpus Christi criminal justice system. For more information visit the Nueces County, Texas website. 

  • Nueces County Clerk

    Nueces County Courthouse

    901 Leopard St., Room 201

    Corpus Christi, TX 78401

    Phone: (361) 888-0580
Corpus Christi DWI Lawyer FAQs; Knowledge is power. Get honest answers now.

    Glowing Client Reviews

    Trey is the man! I hired him because I had overheard a county court judge mentioning how awesome of an attorney he is, so if an endorsement from a judge won’t convince you then I’m not sure what will. I sure do hope I never find myself in a pickle ever again but if I do, I would hire Trey in a heartbeat. He’s honest, transparent, doesn’t beat around the bush, and will work tirelessly so that your clean record stays clean and unblemished. 5 stars, highly recommend!

    Joey

    I recently hired Trey Porter Law to help our teenage daughter with a drug charge. In the state of Texas she was being charged as an adult which carried a much stiffer penalty. Trey is very responsive, helpful, knowledgeable and is always available to answer any questions or concerns via phone, text or email. He was able to negotiate on her behalf so it was a pleasant experience. I would highly recommend Trey Porter Law.

    Wendy

    Trey really helped me out. He was straight forward and professional, and really helped me in my case. I thought i was going to lose my job, but trey did everything in his power to help me keep my way of life, and still keeps up with me any details on my case.

    I really appreciated all he did for me.

    Juan

    Trey is a phenomenal attorney that gets the job done right! He is dedicated to help his clients.

    He made himself available and answered all my concerns immediately! I had faith in him and he continued to prove his expertise by helping me. I highly recommend Trey Porter!!

    Binda

    Trey Porter fought for me! I am a nurse and thought my career was over.

    Very thankful I got Trey Porter involved. He responds to messages regularly and was very thorough.

    He saved my career. Forever grateful!

    Stevie

    Mr Porter is the real deal. You get what you pay for these days. I know that from my personal business dealings. Attorney Trey Porter was no different.

    He was prompt, professional and poised. I was charged with DWI, and Mr Porter got the charge dismissed. I could not be more pleased or thankful. If you get a DWI, hire the best — hire Trey Porter.

    Alina

    Read More Reviews

    WE FIGHT FOR DISMISSAL

    WE FIGHT FOR DISMISSAL

    CHARGES DISMISSED

    DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED .15

    Driving facts involved failing to maintain a single lane and speeding. Client refused breath test and forced law enforcement to obtain search warrant for blood. Blood test result was not used after challenge from Defense, and State waived and abandoned charge.

    CHARGES DISMISSED

    DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

    Client was a college student, worried about the collateral consequences of an alcohol offense. After negotiation and review of the traffic stop, the case was dismissed. Client received no criminal conviction. The charge was later expunged and deleted from client’s record.

    CHARGES DISMISSED

    DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED .15+

    Client was involved in minor accident. Client was at fault in accident. A young executive, client was concerned that a criminal conviction for DWI would result in termination. After review of the traffic stop, it was clear the officer lacked probable cause for arrest. State eventually dismissed DWI charge. Client received no criminal conviction.

    CHARGES DISMISSED

    DWI 2nd

    Client, a military veteran, was facing up to one year in jail. State could not prove intoxication by alcohol, and was prepared to proceed on loss of use by marijuana. After challenging the State to prove that marijuana was ingested at or near time of driving, and that marijuana impaired client’s driving, the State dismissed the case on the day of trial.

    CHARGES DISMISSED

    DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

    Driving facts involved a false claim by police that taillight was out. After challenging the reasonable suspicion for the traffic stop, the State was forced to dismiss the case when video did not match police report. Client has since expunged arrest, and has no criminal record.

    CHARGES DISMISSED

    DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

    Client is a public school teacher and faced immediate termination upon conviction. The facts of the case were bad. State was unwilling to budge in negotiation, and matter was set for trial – the last shot at avoiding a conviction and preserving client’s livelihood. State was forced to dismiss on day of trial. Client has no criminal record, and has since expunged the DWI arrest.

    Contact Trey Porter Today

    Request a free consultation

    The stakes are high. Criminal charges can have devastating, lifelong consequences. During the free, confidential consultation, Mr. Porter will answer questions surrounding your legal matter, and discuss and identify potential defenses.

    If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, the State is working on your conviction. It’s time to start building your defense.

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