Drug DWI

DWI with Drugs Attorney in Friendswood

Don’t Face a DWI with Drugs Charge Alone — Call a Friendswood Attorney Now

At Law Office of Steve O. Gonzalez, we understand the challenges you face when dealing with a DWI with drugs or drug intoxication charge. With over 32 years of combined experience, our dedicated team delivers effective and personalized legal strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.

Serving Friendswood, TX, and neighboring regions, we are committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome. In Friendswood, navigating the specific legal landscape can be intricate due to local law enforcement practices that are unique to the area. Our familiarity with these local elements allows us to provide a defense that considers both the legal realities and the community standards that might impact your case.

Let a skilled DWI with drugs attorney in Friendswood fight for you. We’re former prosecutors offering bilingual consultations in English and Spanish. Call (832) 900-9867 or reach out online.

Understanding DWI Laws in Texas

Under Texas law, a person commits the offense of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) if they are intoxicated while operating a motor vehicle in a public place. The key to understanding a DWI with drugs charge lies in the legal definition of "intoxicated." Texas Penal Code § 49.01(2) defines "intoxicated" as:

Not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties by reason of the introduction of alcohol, a controlled substance, a drug, a dangerous drug, a combination of two or more of those substances, or any other substance into the body; OR
Having an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more.

Key Elements the Prosecution Must Prove

For a DWI with drugs case, the prosecution must prove the first element: that the introduction of a substance (or combination of substances) caused a loss of the defendant's normal mental or physical faculties. This is a critical distinction from alcohol-related DWI cases, which can be proven "per se" by a BAC of 0.08 or higher.

With drugs, there is no "legal limit," and a positive test for a substance in your system is not enough on its own to secure a conviction. The state must also demonstrate that the drug actually impaired your ability to drive.

This proof often relies on a variety of evidence, including police officer observations of your driving, your performance on Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs), and the testimony of a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE). This highly subjective evidence is frequently ripe for challenge by an experienced DWI with drugs attorney in Friendswood.

Classifications and Related Offenses

A DWI with drugs charge can be classified in different ways depending on your criminal history and the circumstances of the offense.

First Offense: Typically a Class B misdemeanor.
Second Offense: A Class A misdemeanor.
Third or Subsequent Offense: This is elevated to a third-degree felony.

However, a DWI with drugs charge can become a felony even on a first offense if certain aggravating factors are present. We are prepared to defend against all levels of these charges and are an assertive DWI with drugs attorney in Friendswood.

Penalties of DWI Convictions in Texas

A conviction for a DWI with drugs charge in Texas can result in a complex web of direct penalties and far-reaching collateral consequences that will impact your life for years to come. Our role as your Friendswood DWI with drugs lawyer is to not only defend you against the direct criminal charges but also to help you understand and mitigate the non-criminal fallout of a potential conviction.

The severity of the penalties depends on the specific classification of the offense:

First Offense (Class B Misdemeanor): Up to a $2,000 fine, 3 to 180 days in county jail, and a driver's license suspension of 90 days to one year.
Second Offense (Class A Misdemeanor): Up to a $4,000 fine, 30 days to one year in county jail, and a driver's license suspension of 180 days to two years.
Third or Subsequent Offense (Third-Degree Felony): Up to a $10,000 fine, 2 to 10 years in state prison, and a driver's license suspension of 180 days to two years.

These are just the direct penalties. A DWI with drugs conviction can also lead to court-mandated DWI education or intervention programs, a required ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle, and annual surcharges of up to $2,000 for three years to maintain your driver's license. The costs, both financial and personal, are astronomical.

A DWI conviction in Texas creates a permanent criminal record, leading to significant, long-lasting consequences. It can be a major barrier to employment, professional licenses, and housing. For non-citizens, it risks deportation. A felony conviction results in the loss of firearms rights, and all convictions carry a damaging social stigma. This is why a dedicated defense is crucial to protect not just your freedom, but your future.

Our Comprehensive Approach to DWI with Drugs Defense

A charge of DWI with drugs is not a foregone conclusion of guilt. At the Law Office of Steve O. Gonzalez, we believe that every person deserves a vigorous defense. Our approach is methodical, strategic, and focused on identifying every possible weakness in the prosecution's case. As a dedicated Friendswood DWI with drugs lawyer, we leave no stone unturned in our fight for your freedom.

Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. Some of the most common and effective defenses we employ include:

Challenging the Traffic Stop: If the police officer did not have a valid reason to pull you over, the entire stop may be deemed illegal, and all evidence collected as a result may be suppressed.
Disputing Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): These tests are notoriously unreliable, especially when drugs are involved. We can argue that your performance was affected by medical conditions, fatigue, or environmental factors rather than intoxication.
Questioning Drug Recognition Experts (DREs): DREs are not infallible. We can challenge the validity of their conclusions and their training, especially because the DRE protocol is not based on universally accepted scientific principles.
Contesting Chemical Test Results: The presence of a drug metabolite in your system does not necessarily mean you were impaired at the time of driving. We can challenge the timing of the test and the methodology used by the lab, arguing that the results do not prove intoxication.

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Navigating the Legal Process in Friendswood, TX

Understanding the local legal landscape is crucial when facing DWI with drugs charges. Friendswood’s legal process can be complex, but here’s what to generally expect:

Initial Hearing: Occurs shortly after arrest, with a determination of bail and initial charges review. Having an attorney who understands the local courts' procedures can significantly influence the outcome at this stage. We're here to guide you, ensuring that every detail benefits your defense and contributes to a positive direction for your case.
Pre-Trial Proceedings: An opportunity for negotiations and plea bargains before the case proceeds further. In Friendswood, plea bargaining requires a deep understanding of both the law and the players involved. Our reputation within the legal community enables us to negotiate effectively on your behalf, seeking terms that serve your interests best while minimizing potential penalties.
Trial Preparation & Representation: Should your case proceed to trial, we ensure meticulous preparation, presenting a well-evidenced and robust defense in court. This preparation includes everything from gathering witness testimonies to thorough cross-examination. Each aspect of trial preparation is approached with the knowledge needed to counter the prosecution’s strategy, ensuring your best chance in front of a judge or jury.

Why Choose Law Office of Steve O. Gonzalez

Our firm's commitment to integrity and reliable legal defense makes us the preferred choice for clients facing serious charges. By understanding the local nuances and challenges within Friendswood and neighboring regions, we deliver representation that is both informed and dedicated:

Local Expertise: We are familiar with the specific laws and court practices in Brazoria, Galveston, Harris, and Fort Bend Counties. This expertise translates into a more nuanced approach to your defense, leveraging insights others may overlook. Whether it's understanding how local court dockets operate or how judges interpret DWI with drugs laws in Friendswood, our familiarity with the locale is a strategic advantage.
Client-Centric Approach: Your situation is unique from our perspective, and we tailor our defenses to best support your specific needs. Our practice emphasizes listening and understanding your concerns, ensuring that our legal strategies align with your personal and professional objectives. We believe that building a strong attorney-client relationship is foundational to achieving the results you seek.
Proven Track Record: Our history of successful outcomes and client satisfaction speaks volumes about our commitment to client advocacy. Testimonials and case histories highlight our ability to handle even the most challenging cases with precision and care. We take pride in the success stories of clients who have regained their lives thanks to our diligent advocacy.

Take The First Step Towards Defending Your Future

Let us alleviate the burdens of the legal process, so you can move forward with clarity and hope. Each step we take is designed not only to address your current legal challenges but also to lay the groundwork for a secure future, helping you avoid similar issues in the future. Taking action today means investing in your peace of mind for tomorrow.

Don’t face your DWI with drugs charge alone. At Law Office of Steve O. Gonzalez, we’re ready to offer the support and legal guidance you need. Contact us online or call (832) 900-9867 for a confidential consultation to discuss your case and explore your options.

Put Experience On Your Side

Why Choose Us?

More than 5,000 Clients Helped Since Start of the Firm
Serving Spanish-Speaking Clients
Certified in Breath Tests, Blood Tests and SFSTs

Former Brazoria County Assistant District Attorney
Aggressive & Passionate Legal Representation
Over 32 Years Representing The Accused

A Reputation of Excellence

Hear What Our Satisfied Clients Have To Say

"Case Dismissed!"
As a mother and wife I knew I needed the best defense as my future was at stake with 15yrs on the line.

- Brittany
"I highly recommend Steve and this team"
After going through the system once I pray, I never be in that situation again, I am glad I found an attorney that suited my needs.

- Kooffreh
"Best Lawyer hands down! Your in good hands if you hire them"
When they tell you you’re in good hands, if you don’t take their word for it, please- take mine!

- Kevin
"Best Lawyer hands down"
They were always in court on time and kept me informed throughout my 3-year process with Steve and his partner Kristina.

- Former Client
"Fantastic & Professional!"
Hands down, these folks are the best in the business! Thanks to Steve, KK, and the rest of the crew at the firm, I can now rest at ease after getting the case dismissed.

- Chad
"During the entire process, Kristi was an exceptional guide"
I feel truly fortunate to have had such an amazing lawyer on my side, and I will forever be grateful.

- Former Client
"Godsend"
Through his hard work and persistence, he was able to prove my innocence. I wouldn't want my life in anyone else's hand except his.

- Anonymous
"Phenomenal Attorney"
Steve and his team consistently go above and beyond for their clients. They definitely live up to their reputation as the fierce defenders.

- Clayton