DWI Probation in Austin

Every person charged with DWI in Austin is eligible to submit an application for community supervision. Commonly referred to as probation, community supervision is an opportunity to avoid incarceration as punishment for DWI in Austin.

Texas has severe DWI consequences. Everyone charged with DWI, even a first offense, faces jail time. Community supervision is a safe and preferable alternative to the nightmare that is incarceration. Learn more about Austin DWI consequences. 

• What is DWI probation? Probation is a contract between a defendant and the court. Probation is granted when a defendant is sentenced to a period of time in jail or prison, and a judge or jury decides to probate the sentence. This means that the defendant serves the punishment period through community supervision, instead of incarceration.

• What are the requirements for Austin DWI probation?DWI probation requirements vary, however, court-ordered classes, random drug testing, reporting, continued employment or school enrollment, community service, alcohol monitoring device(s), and the payment of fines, court costs, and supervisory fees form the core of probation terms and conditions in Austin and elsewhere in Texas. Learn more.

How to get DWI probation

There are only two ways to receive probation for DWI in Austin. A judge has the power to grant probation when assessing punishment as part of a plea agreement, or after a defendant has been found guilty at trial. A jury also has the power to grant probation after finding a defendant guilty at trial. 

• Is it possible to get probation for DUI in Austin? Yes. Unlike DWI, a minor under 21 years of age cannot be sentenced to jail for DUI. However, it is critical to avoid a conviction for DUI  at all costs. Learn more.

• Can you get probation for a 3rd DWI in Austin?Yes. Every person charged with DWI in Austin is eligible to submit an application for community supervision. Even after losing a trial, a defendant may still receive probation instead of being sentenced to jail. Learn more about Austin DWI consequences.

How long is DWI probation?

The maximum length of community supervision in Texas for a misdemeanor DWI is 24 months, and for a DWI 3rd+ is 10 years. 

• What factors determine length of probation? Many factors determine the term of a probation, including, blood alcohol concentration, criminal history, whether there was an accident, injury, or property damage, attitude with law enforcement, driving facts, policies of the prosecuting office, and the temperament of the judge assigned to the case.However, the single most important factor in the outcome of any DWI case is choosing the right legal representation. The experience and determination of a DWI lawyer directly impacts the result.

• Can you get off probation early for a DWI in Austin?No. It’s not possible to early terminate a DWI probation in Texas. Learn more.

Straight probation vs deferred adjudication in Austin

The difference between straight probation and deferred adjudication is that straight probation starts with a permanent conviction. Because the conviction is final, the primary benefit of receiving straight probation is avoiding incarceration.

Deferred adjudication is much better than straight probation. Deferred adjudication begins with no conviction, and a guaranteed pathway to dismissal. If all terms and conditions are met by the end of term, the charge is dismissed. In many cases, the charge can later be sealed through a petition for nondisclosure. Learn more about DWI deferred adjudication in Austin here.

What happens with DWI probation violations?

Probation violations, even minor, can result in the State filing a Motion to Revoke Probation (MTR). MTR’s result in arrest warrants, potential incarceration, and can wreck a criminal record. 

• Can you drink on DWI probation Austin?No. Alcohol consumption is prohibited while on community supervision in Austin. Even for adults over 21 years old. Learn more.
  
  

• Is drug testing a requirement for DWI probation? Everyone on probation in Austin can be drug tested. The frequency is determined by the court and the supervision officer. Failure can result in an MTR. Learn more.

Travis County probation resources

The Travis County Adult Probation Department is charged with the supervision of thousands of Travis county residents. Common probation questions include: 

• What is the Contact for Bexar County Adult Probation?Phone: 512-854-4600
  
  Physical Address: 411 W. 13th Street
  
  Austin, TX 78701
  
  Website: https://www.traviscountytx.gov/tccjs/adult-probation/contact

• How do I pay probation fees online in Austin?Online payment options, and other questions are answered online, in the FAQ page: https://www.traviscountytx.gov/tccjs/adult-probation/faqs