DWI

What to Do if You’re Arrested for DWI in Galveston During Summer Festivals

Posted on by Shawn Grant
Getting arrested for DWI during a summer festival in Galveston can be overwhelming. The energy of the festival, the crowds, and suddenly finding yourself in the back of a police car can leave you feeling confused and uncertain about what to do next. But here’s the thing: You’re not alone. At Zendeh Del & Associates, we are here to guide you through this tough time and help you navigate the legal process for the best possible outcome. We understand the fear and anxiety that come with an arrest, and we are committed to protecting your rights.  

Awards & Media Appearances

  

Understanding What Happens After Your ArrestWhat to Do if You're Arrested for DWI in Galveston During Summer Festivals

After being arrested for DWI in Galveston, you may have several questions. Will you go to jail immediately? How long before you can leave? What are the consequences you’re facing? Here’s a breakdown of what to expect: Once arrested, the police will take you to a holding facility for processing. This involves taking your fingerprints, photographs, and collecting other details about your case. You may be asked to take a breathalyzer or blood test to determine your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Refusing these tests can result in automatic consequences, such as a driver’s license suspension. After this, the arresting officer will present the evidence collected and you will be formally charged. Your next step will be to appear before a judge. The legal process will begin, and you’ll likely need to post bail to be released while your case progresses. Though this is a stressful time, it’s important to remember that this is just the beginning, and with the right legal help, you can work toward a favorable result.

How DWI Charges Work in Galveston

Texas law is strict when it comes to DWI charges, especially during summer festivals where there are large crowds and a high police presence. A DWI charge occurs if your BAC is 0.08% or higher, but even lower levels can result in severe consequences. In Texas, a DWI conviction can be based on the officer’s observations, such as slurred speech, or on the BAC results from your breathalyzer or blood test. If you’re under 21, a BAC of just 0.01% can lead to a DWI charge because of Texas’s zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving.  

The Zendeh Del & Associates, PLLC Team

Jonathan Zendeh Del

Trial Attorney

Gabe Perez

Trial Attorney

Carolyn Zendeh Del

Certified Mediator, Attorney

Chase Waterwall

Trial Attorney

Dorothy Porretto

Office Manager, Paralegal

Pedro Ruiz

Judge

Legal Assistant Zaira Banda

Zaira Banda

Legal Assistant

Legal Assistant Colleen Herndon

Colleen Herndon

Legal Assistant

   There are also defenses you can raise to challenge the DWI charge. If there was an issue with the breathalyzer test or if the officer didn’t have reasonable suspicion to pull you over, these could be grounds for reducing or dismissing the charges.

What to Do After a DWI Arrest in Galveston

If you’ve been arrested for DWI during one of Galveston’s summer festivals, it’s essential to act quickly. Seek legal representation immediately. A skilled lawyer can help you understand the complexities of the legal process and ensure your rights are protected. It’s also crucial to avoid speaking to the police without an attorney present. Anything you say could be used against you in court, and your lawyer will ensure that your interests are defended. In addition, if you fail the breath or blood test, your driver’s license could be automatically suspended. However, you have a limited time to request a hearing to contest this suspension. Make sure you get in touch with an attorney promptly to guide you through this process and meet all necessary deadlines.  

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See what our past clients have to say about us.

These guys are amazing. They made a most horrific experience bearable. They treated me with respect and no judgment. I cannot describe how grateful I am for their representation with my case. 5 stars is not enough. I hope I never need them again but would ABSOLUTELY use them again and definitely recommend them.

— Jennifer S.

Jonathan Zendeh Del and Associates worked tirelessly on my case. They kept me informed every step of the way. In the end the got my case dismissed and I am so grateful that we out our trust in his law firm. I can honestly say the rumors were true. He really is the best.

— Kristin F.

  

What Happens Next in the Legal Process

Once your arrest has been processed, you’ll need to appear in court. A judge will decide whether to release you on bail, and your case will be scheduled for trial. During this time, the prosecution will gather evidence, and your attorney will start reviewing the case to build a strong defense. Your attorney will challenge the evidence, question the circumstances of your arrest, and possibly negotiate a favorable plea deal if it benefits your case.

Understanding the Potential Consequences

If you’re convicted of DWI in Galveston, you could face fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education classes, and possibly jail time. The specific consequences depend on factors such as your BAC, whether you have previous DWI convictions, and whether there were any aggravating circumstances, such as a car accident. A first-time DWI offense with a BAC of 0.08% or higher can result in a fine of up to $2,000 and up to 180 days in jail. If your BAC is 0.15% or higher, the penalties increase, with a fine of up to $4,000 and up to one year in jail. If you’ve been convicted of DWI before, the penalties are even harsher. In addition, you may face increased insurance premiums, difficulty getting your license reinstated, and professional consequences if your job requires a clean driving record.  

Case Results

$11,820,000

WARN ACT
SETTLEMENT

Reached a settlement of $11,820,000

$11,820,000

WARN ACT CASE
SETTLEMENT

Employees fired when not given proper notice

Not Guilty

DRUG JURY TRIAL

Client was a dentist caught with 12 grams of methamphetamine. 

Case Dismissed

DRAM SHOP CASE

Death of a person who was run over by a drunk person who left a party.

$2,500,000

CAR ACCIDENT

Confidential settlement of $2,500,000

$4,500,000

DRAM SHOP CASE

Death of a person who was run over by a drunk person who left a party

Not Guilty

DWI JURY TRIAL

Client was asleep on the side of the road with the car on. Breath was .248

Case Dismissed

STATE OF TEXAS v. C.S.

Wrecked motorcycle while leaving the beach, an officer witnessed the accident and assumed he was intoxicated

  

Additional Tips for Navigating the DWI Process in Galveston

While the legal process may seem overwhelming, it’s important to remember that there are steps you can take to ensure the best possible outcome. One of the most critical aspects is maintaining clear communication with your attorney. Be open and honest about the details of your arrest, as this will help your lawyer build the strongest defense possible. It’s also essential to keep track of all relevant documents and records related to your case. This includes any paperwork from the arrest, notices regarding your license suspension, and any evidence that may be presented in court. Having these documents organized and readily available can make the legal process smoother and more efficient. In addition, if you have a clean driving record, it can sometimes work in your favor. Many judges and prosecutors may take this into consideration when determining your sentence. Even if this is your first offense, you could still face serious penalties, so it’s crucial to work with an experienced attorney who can negotiate the best possible terms for you.

How Our Team Can Help You

If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Galveston during a summer festival, don’t wait to seek help. At Zendeh Del & Associates, we understand the stress and uncertainty you’re feeling, and we’re here to guide you through the legal process. Our experienced team will review every detail of your case, look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and build a solid defense for you. Whether that involves challenging the evidence, negotiating with the prosecution, or going to trial, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. DWI charges are serious, but with the right legal help, a positive outcome is possible. Contact us today to get the support you need to fight for your rights and your future.

To learn more about this subject click here: What to Expect in a Texas DWI Court Case