WACO PUBLIC INTOXICATION LAWYERS

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WACO PUBLIC INTOXICATION LAWYERS

Public Intoxication charges in Waco and McLennan County are serious. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record, visible on every background check. It can block job opportunities, professional licenses, housing applications, and more. That’s why the goal in every case is clear: dismissal and record clearing.

Texas law makes it a Class C misdemeanor to be intoxicated in a public place to the degree you may endanger yourself or others. But there’s no BAC requirement, and arrests can be based totally on a police officer’s mood and opinion. That’s a bad combination.

Trey Porter steps up to level the playing field. Mr. Porter is an award-winning Texas criminal defense lawyer with over a decade of experience dismissing and deleting Public Intoxication charges in Waco, McLennan County, and across Texas.

Every case is different, but the game plan is the same: avoid a conviction.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR PUBLIC INTOXICATION IN TEXAS?

Fine up to $500 plus court costs.
Court-ordered classes and community service.
Permanent criminal record for misdemeanor drug – alcohol crime.

The permanent criminal record is the worst part. You can’t calculate the financial consequences of having a criminal conviction. It can be an immediate disqualifier for numerous jobs, including those requiring specialized licenses, professional board approval, and security clearances.

Under 21: Minors and college students face additional consequences such as driver’s license suspension, alcohol awareness courses, and potential expulsion from school.

MCLENNAN COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE COURTS

McLennan County, Texas has 5 Justice of the Peace courts. Public Intoxication incidents that occur in the county are assigned to one of these five JPs, based on the specific location of the incident:

Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 1
501 Washington Ave., Suite 206, Waco, TX 76701

Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 2
901 Washington Ave., Waco, TX 76701

Justice of the Peace Precinct 2
180 State Highway 317, McGregor, TX 76657

Justice of the Peace Precinct 3
402 Robinson Dr., Robinson, TX 76706

Justice of the Peace Precinct 4
520 Columbus Ave., Waco, TX 76701

Justice of the Peace Precinct 5
901 Washington Ave., Waco, TX 76701

Failure to appear at any court date for a Public Intoxication charge can result in additional criminal charges and an arrest warrant.

WACO MUNICIPAL COURT

Waco Municipal Court handles the Public Intoxication cases that occur in the city limits, in addition to thousands of other Class C misdemeanor cases each year.

Evidentiary matters are coordinated with the City Attorney’s Office, and in-person appearances are generally required unless a Waco Public Intoxication attorney makes arrangements with the Court ahead of time.

Waco Municipal Court
201 W. Waco Dr.
Waco, TX 76701
Phone: (254) 750-5900

MUNICIPAL COURTS IN MCLENNAN COUNTY, TEXAS

In addition to the county JP courts and Waco Municipal Court, all other Public Intoxication cases in McLennan County are assigned to one of the following courts:

Bellmead Municipal Court

Hewitt Municipal Court

Woodway Municipal Court

Robinson Municipal Court

Lorena Municipal Court

McGregor Municipal Court

Other cities, including Beverly Hills, Crawford, Riesel, Mart, Lacy Lakeview, Bruceville-Eddy, Moody, and West also maintain municipal courts that regularly hear Public Intoxication cases.

Local knowledge is priceless. McLennan County has an unusually high number of municipal and justice courts. With every court comes unique procedures, requirements, and tendencies.

Trey Porter Law has significant experience representing clients in small courts in and around Waco, ensuring all clients get a powerful, complete, and effective defense.

CAN YOU GET PUBLIC INTOXICATION CHARGES DISMISSED?

Yes, it is possible to get Public Intoxication charges dismissed in Waco. Securing dismissals in Public Intoxication cases requires a working knowledge of Texas law and local insights.

Officers frequently arrest individuals leaving Baylor University football games, Magnolia Market weekends, and downtown Waco nightlife around Austin Avenue, the Suspension Bridge, and the River Walk area – all locations where being in public after drinking is common, but not always criminal.

Experienced Waco Public Intoxication attorneys will:

Scrutinize the arresting officer’s report and bodycam footage

Question whether there was actual danger to self or others

Push for dismissals through negotiation or legal motions

For more information about criminal defense strategy, and how it can be used to win a criminal case, check out the FAQ Guide.

CAN A PUBLIC INTOXICATION BE EXPUNGED IN TEXAS?

Yes, Public Intoxication charges can and should always be expunged – but you have to obtain a dismissal to qualify. Convictions can’t be expunged, and they never “fall off” the record in Texas.

If you simply pay the fine in order to avoid the hassle of going to court, the charge just became a permanent part of your criminal record.

It’s important to never plead guilty to a Public Intoxication charge. It’s more than just a ticket.

TRUSTED WACO PUBLIC INTOXICATION ATTORNEYS

Local knowledge matters. Every McLennan County court operates differently – from Waco Municipal Court’s coordination with the City Attorney’s Office, to the smaller municipal courts where prosecutors may negotiate directly with defense counsel. Having an advocate who understands these local procedures can mean the difference between a dismissal and a lasting record.

Backed by 40+ years of combined courtroom experience, Trey Porter Law fights for dismissals in Public Intoxication cases across Waco, Baylor University, and McLennan County.

Trey Porter is recognized as a Top 100 Criminal Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers Association, and he has a 10.0 Superb rating from AVVO where attorneys are rated for courtroom results, peer endorsements, and verified client reviews.

Don’t let one mistake define your future. Contact Trey Porter Law today for a free consultation to lay out all options, answer your questions, and chart a course for success.

REVIEWED BY TREY PORTER, WACO PUBLIC INTOXICATION LAWYER

Trey Porter is a Waco Public Intoxication 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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