WACO DWI LAWYERS

Powerful Defense. Proven Results.

WACO DWI LAWYERS

If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Waco, you can’t change what happened – but you can change what happens next. Choosing counsel is the single most important decision you’ll make in this process. It’s common to search for the “best DWI lawyers in Waco” or “top-rated DWI lawyers near me.”

Make a short list, and talk to multiple sources.

Texas criminal defense lawyer Trey Porter defends people charged with DWI and intoxication matters in Waco, McLennan County, and throughout Central Texas.

Recognized as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer in America by the National Trial Lawyers Association (2025), Mr. Porter holds a 10.0 Superb rating from AVVO where attorneys are ranked for results, reviews, and peer endorsements, and over the past 13 years has earned a reputation as a lawyer that gets results.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU GET A DWI IN WACO?

A DWI arrest in Waco starts with booking at the McLennan County Jail on State Highway 6. After release on bond, the case is filed in one of the McLennan County Courts at Law. The first court date, often called arraignment, will be the next scheduled action locally.

DWI arrests in McLennan County trigger a separate legal action aimed at suspending your driver’s license. The Texas Department of Public Safety moves fast to independently suspend driving privileges after a DWI arrest. You only have 15 days from the date of arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR A DWI IN WACO?

A first-time DWI in Waco is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by:

Up to 180 days in McLennan County Jail
A fine of up to $2,000 plus court costs and state surcharges
Driver’s license suspension for up to 1 year
A permanent criminal record

If the BAC is .15 or higher, the charge is enhanced to a Class A misdemeanor, with up to 1 year in jail and a fine up to $4,000.

Repeat offenses, intoxication assault, and intoxication manslaughter are prosecuted as felonies carrying years in prison and devastating lifelong consequences.

WHAT COURTS HANDLE DWI CASES IN WACO?

Misdemeanor DWI cases in Waco are heard in the McLennan County Courts at Law, located at the courthouse in downtown Waco near the Brazos River. These courts handle most first and second DWI arrests.

Felony-level DWIs, including third offenses or DWIs involving accidents and serious injuries, are sent to the McLennan County District Courts.

Court appearances are mandatory, and missing one can lead to a warrant and bond forfeiture. A Waco DWI attorney manages deadlines and appearances strategically to protect you at every step.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A DWI ARREST IN WACO?

Once released from jail, the most important steps are:

Hire a DWI lawyer immediately – the sooner an attorney is on the case, the stronger the defense.
Request an ALR hearing within 15 days to protect your driver’s license.
Consult with your Waco DWI attorneys about next steps for the court process.
Comply with all bond conditions from travel restrictions to drug and alcohol testing.

Waco law enforcement officers – from Baylor University Police to DPS troopers on I-35 – know DWI law inside out. You need a DWI defense lawyer who does too.

CAN A WACO DWI BE DISMISSED OR REDUCED?

Yes. A DWI in McLennan County can be dismissed or reduced, but it takes a strategic, aggressive defense. The most effective approaches include:

Challenging whether the traffic stop was legal.
Attacking the reliability of field sobriety testing.
Questioning the accuracy of breath or blood results.
Thoroughly reviewing video evidence for probable cause.

A reduction from a Class A misdemeanor DWI 0.15 or higher down to a Class B misdemeanor DWI can have a measurable impact on the overall result.

DOES A DWI STAY ON YOUR RECORD FOREVER IN WACO?

Yes. A DWI conviction in Waco stays on your criminal record permanently. Texas law does not allow a DWI conviction to be expunged.

The only way to clear a record is through:

Expunction – available only for dismissal without probation or being found not guilty at trial.
Nondisclosure – limited record sealing for certain first-time offenses.

Because a conviction never goes away, protecting your record starts in the courtroom. A Waco DWI attorney fights for dismissal so future opportunities aren’t destroyed by one mistake.

For more information on the effects a DWI can have on a criminal record, see the FAQ Guide.

DO YOU NEED A WACO DWI LAWYER?

Yes. A DWI in Waco carries severe legal, financial, and personal consequences. Local knowledge matters – from how McLennan County prosecutors handle cases to the courthouse procedures on Washington Avenue.

Trey Porter Law defends students at Baylor University, professionals working in Waco, and drivers stopped in McLennan County’s I-35 corridor.

With proven results and hundreds of reviews from happy clients, the firm delivers aggressive representation when freedom, careers, and futures are on the line.

REVIEWED BY TREY PORTER, WACO DWI LAWYER

Trey Porter is a Waco DWI lawyer with over a decade of trial experience defending DWI, Public Intoxication, and select criminal charges. His practice focuses on protecting lives and livelihoods, fighting for dismissals, and clearing criminal records through expungement across Texas.

A member of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and the National College for DUI Defense, Mr. Porter has been recognized for his courtroom advocacy and reputation for results. His legal insights have been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, USA Today, and other national outlets.

Trey Porter Law represents people in Waco, and across Texas, including Killeen and Austin.

Testimonials

A Proven track record of success

M. Adams

Exceptional Defense Attorneys and firm.
I had the pleasure of being represented by Trey Porter Law. Attorney Joseph Strickland worked with me directly and was wit me at every court appearance and I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. From the outset, they set clear expectations on how they could help me avoid jail time for my DWI charge.

What truly stood out was their unwavering support throughout the entire process. They were always accessible, promptly addressing any questions I had. Ms. Aisley would answer my call and respond to my questions on the spot. This was especially crucial when my school and potential employers raised concerns about my pending charges. Joseph Strickland provided guidance on how to navigate these external challenges, showcasing their commitment to their clients beyond the courtroom.

Their professionalism, transparent communication, and dedication to my case made a significant impact, and I am grateful for the positive resolution they achieved. I highly recommend Trey Porter Law Firm for anyone in need of a skilled and supportive defense attorney and team.

C. Pollock

After a search of attorneys in my area I sought out Trey Porter Law Firm, impressed by the detailed information provided on the website and resounding client endorsements. From the introductory phone call, direct meeting, subsequent calls/emails/texts, and throughout my court appearance and disposition, all dealings have been exceptional. Everyone on the team has been friendly and responsive, while still being highly professional. I also very much appreciate the proactive approach taken throughout my case.

J. Givens

Mr. Porter an amazing attorney, he help me get through my situation swiftly and professionally as well as save me time and money in the process. Working with Mr. Porter was a pleasure, he kept me well informed and updated throughout the whole process which made things so much easier for me to understand. Mr. Porter and his team took the stress out of stressful situation. Mr. Porter and his team was always easy to contact and return my phone calls and emails promptly. I cannot give enough praise to Mr. Porter and his team. I had another attorney in the beginning who wad basically going to railroad me. I would definitely recommend Mr. Trey Porter again and again. If you’re looking for a great attorney who is affordable and knowledgeable and will fight for you, Trey Porter is the attorney to choose. Definitely a five star attorney.

J. Franklin

Trey and his staff are great and make sure to help you with all your questions to get through the process. Trey worked out the best outcome for my issue and got me an opportunity to get my charge expunged. Trey and his team made a negative experience end on a positive note. Truly recommend this law firm for your legal issues.

J. McKibbon

I would like to thank Trey Porter and his team regarding my DUI case. I truly could not have expected a better outcome regarding my case. This outcome only happened because of his expert knowledge and dedication to his profession. Trey really took time to explain every step of the process to me which really helped me make critical decisions on how to proceed. I am lucky to have come across his name and will only refer people to Mr. Porter regarding DUI offenses. Trey, I want to thank you publicly. Your expert handling of my D.U.I. got my case reduced to an outcome I was very pleased with. Nothing against my driving record, no loss of license and I’m positive this wouldn’t have turned out so well without you. Thanks for your hard work, empathy and responsiveness it really meant a lot to me.

R. Valdez

We hired Trey Porter to assist us last year. From the initial consultation up to and including the court hearing, Trey had a straight forward approach to the situation at hand. He explained everything along the way and was available at any time to discuss/answer any questions we had either by phone/text/email. With his experience and professionalism, we obtained the best outcome possible. We would highly recommend Trey Porter with no hesitation whatsoever. Five stars is definitely not enough!

B. Cantu

I highly recommend Trey Porter! He is very professional and attentive to each situation at hand. He does not beat around the bush. Straight forward and explains things very well. Easy to work with. Contacts you before you have to ever contact him. Detailed oriented. Driven to get you the best deal possible in your situation. Him and his staff were absolutely amazing for my situation. Thank you!

B. Patel

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!!

D. Lopez

Mr. Porter was exceptional! He answered all my questions, was thorough throughout my case. Really pushed to go above and beyond to get us the results we were needing. Excellent professional service and as a professional I can definitely say I recommend him.

C. Jef

100/100
Excellent experience with Mr Porter and TPL law offices. They fought for me and they won! I hired Mr Porter after an embarrassing incident. My license and employment were on the line. The office had excellent communication and personal service — even through text message! Totally recommend Trey Porter 100/100!

T. Royal

5 STAR!
I hired Mr. Porter to represent my son in a DUI case. I was worried a conviction would ruin his future. Mr. Porter and the whole office were friendly, thorough, and poised throughout. They respond to text and calls almost instantly. We are just finishing the expunction process after the case was dismissed!!! I am grateful to Mr. Porter and recommend him to one and all. Excellent from start to finish. Thank you TPL!

A. Renaud

Winning
I won with Attorney Trey Porter! Had a criminal DWI .15 charge, small accident, but no injuries. This was my first criminal charge of my life. Mr. Porter was great to talk to — as was the entire office staff and other attorneys. Everyone was SO NICE! 9 long months passed and my charge was dismissed. No probation. No conviction. This experience was well worth the money. I recommend Trey Porter, Attorney at Law.

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