Misdemeanor DWI in Tarrant County can carry serious, long-lasting consequences that many people simply don’t fully understand. From permanent criminal records to unexpected impacts on employment and licensing, knowing what you’re up against is the first step in protecting your future. This article hopes to be a springboard for understanding how misdemeanor DWI in Tarrant County is handled and will help you learn…
- How long a misdemeanor will stay on your record in Texas.
- The possible legal consequences of a misdemeanor DWI.
- How an attorney may be able to help you keep a DWI off your record.
How Long Will A Misdemeanor DWI Stay On My Record In Texas?
How long a misdemeanor DWI stays on your record depends on how your case is resolved. Initially, once you’re arrested, the arrest becomes public record and will appear on a criminal background check. Even while the case is pending, the arrest is still visible, though it will not yet show a final outcome.
If the case is dismissed, it will still show up as an arrest followed by a dismissal. To fully remove it from your record, you’ll need to pursue an expunction.
If you plead to deferred adjudication probation, both the arrest and the probation period will appear on your record. However, this type of resolution may later qualify for non-disclosure, meaning the record can be sealed from most public view, a key benefit of this option.
If you’re convicted, either by pleading guilty or being found guilty at trial, the DWI conviction could stay on your record permanently, but it might be eligible for a non-disclosure, depending on whether it is your first DWI, your criminal history, and certain factors specific to your DWI arrest.
What Are The Legal Penalties For A DWI In Texas?
Texas classifies DWI offenses by severity, and penalties vary accordingly:
Class B Misdemeanor DWI:
- 3 to 180 days in jail
- Up to $2,000 fine
Class B with Open Container:
- 6 to 180 days in jail
- Up to $2,000 fine
Class A Misdemeanor DWI (BAC ≥ 0.15):
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Up to $4,000 fine
Second DWI (also Class A):
- 30 days to 1 year in jail
- Up to $4,000 fine
And more severe offenses become felonies.
DWI With A Child Passenger (State Jail Felony):
- Automatic felony if a child under 15 is in the car
- 6 months to 2 years in a State Jail Prison, or up to 5 years probation
Third DWI (Third-Degree Felony):
- 2 to 10 years in prison, or up to 10 years probation
- Up to $10,000 fine
Jonathan Lowe of The Lowe Law Office, PLLC, has spent years helping Texans in Tarrant County fight DWI charges and reclaim control over their lives. With a deep understanding of how even a first-time misdemeanor DWI can impact employment, licensing, and family relationships, Jonathan Lowe brings both legal strategy and real-world perspective to every case. He has guided countless clients through dismissals, reductions, and non-disclosure eligibility.
If you're facing a DWI in Tarrant County, now is the time to take action, so contact DWI attorney Jonathan Lowe to protect your record and your future today!
Intoxication Assault (Third-Degree Felony):
- 2 to 10 years in prison, or up to 10 years probation
- Up to $10,000 fine
Intoxication Manslaughter (Second-Degree Felony):
- 2 to 20 years in prison, or up to 10 years probation
- Up to $10,000 fine
Will A DWI Arrest In Texas Lead To The Automatic Suspension Of A Professional License?
Regarding your driver’s license, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) can suspend it if you refuse to provide a breath or blood sample when requested. On the other hand, for professional licenses, such as those for doctors, lawyers, or accountants, the arrest alone can prompt a review by the licensing board. These agencies operate independently from the criminal court system and often wait to see the outcome of the case before taking action, but not necessarily.
Some arrests may be based on weak evidence or improper procedures and later dismissed. That’s why it’s vital to consult an attorney who can:
- Advise you before you speak with any licensing agency
- Work to resolve the criminal case in a way that minimizes the impact on your professional standing
Are There Ways To Keep A First-Time DWI Conviction Off My Public Record?
Yes, but it often requires a strategic legal approach from the very beginning. The process typically starts by examining the circumstances of your traffic stop to determine whether it was lawful and supported by probable cause. If your attorney finds that the stop was unconstitutional, they may file a motion to suppress the evidence. When that evidence is obtained illegally, it may be excluded from trial under the “fruit of the poisonous tree” doctrine, significantly weakening the state’s case.
If the evidence can’t be thrown out and a conviction seems likely, your attorney can then shift focus to negotiation and mitigation. In many cases, it’s possible to work out a deal with prosecutors for a reduced charge or for deferred adjudication probation. This alternative allows you to avoid a formal conviction, and if you complete probation successfully, you may later qualify to have your record sealed through a process called non-disclosure, keeping the offense out of public view and limiting its long-term consequences.
How Might A DWI Conviction Affect My Relationships Or Family Dynamics?
Being arrested for DWI can be deeply embarrassing. And although it isn’t a violent crime, there’s a strong social stigma attached to it, which can strain personal and professional relationships.
Support is essential during this time. While you should only discuss the details of your case with your attorney, having emotional support from friends and family can make a big difference. The legal process can be overwhelming, with potential jail time, court fees, mandatory classes, and reputational harm, all contributing to an immense amount of stress.
For those who struggle with alcohol or drug issues, it’s important to seek help. The goal should be rehabilitation, not just punishment. If it’s a one-time mistake, it shouldn’t define your future. On the other hand, if you are wrongly accused, your attorney should be ready to fight the charges all the way to trial, if necessary.
The bottom line: your job, your relationships, and your reputation are worth protecting, whether that means seeking treatment or defending your name.
Still Have Questions? Ready To Get Started?
For more information on misdemeanor DWIs in Tarrant County, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (817) 660-7601 today.
Jonathan Lowe of The Lowe Law Office, PLLC, has spent years helping Texans in Tarrant County fight DWI charges and reclaim control over their lives. With a deep understanding of how even a first-time misdemeanor DWI can impact employment, licensing, and family relationships, Jonathan Lowe brings both legal strategy and real-world perspective to every case. He has guided countless clients through dismissals, reductions, and non-disclosure eligibility.
If you're facing a DWI in Tarrant County, now is the time to take action, so contact DWI attorney Jonathan Lowe to protect your record and your future today!
