New Year Arrests and DWI Charges in Galveston County

New Year’s Eve in Galveston County is known for celebrations, fireworks, and parties, but it also leads to a significant uptick in arrests, especially for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). Zendeh Del & Associates PLLC is here to help those facing these charges, providing expert legal defense and helping clients navigate the complexities of the legal process. In this guide, we explore why arrests rise during New Year’s, what to expect if charged with DWI, and how to protect your rights.

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The Surge in DWI Arrests During New Year’s in Galveston County New Year Arrests and DWI Charges in Galveston County

Every year, Galveston County sees a substantial rise in DWI arrests during the New Year’s holiday season. The combination of alcohol, late-night celebrations, and increased law enforcement leads to a busy time for police officers, particularly in areas like Galveston Island, which attracts large crowds for events and parties. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Texas, the local authorities are proactive in ensuring public safety, often leading to the arrest of individuals suspected of driving under the influence. Zendeh Del & Associates PLLC has observed that during such busy times, law enforcement steps up its efforts by implementing more roadblocks, sobriety checkpoints, and increased patrols, especially on New Year’s Eve. These tactics aim to reduce accidents, protect public safety, and apprehend impaired drivers. With the intense focus on DUI enforcement, many individuals find themselves facing charges that could significantly impact their lives.

Why New Year’s Eve Is a Prime Time for DWI Arrests

The reason for the sharp rise in DWI arrests around New Year’s Eve can be attributed to several factors. First, the festive nature of the holiday often involves alcohol consumption. As individuals celebrate with parties, fireworks, and gatherings, the temptation to drive home after drinking becomes stronger, especially for those who may not plan ahead for a safe way to get home.
  • Lack of Planning for a Safe Ride: Many individuals do not plan for a safe ride home when they drink at social events. While taxis, rideshare services like Uber, or designated drivers are often available, they are frequently overlooked by celebrants who underestimate their blood alcohol content or fail to consider the risks of impaired driving. This lack of foresight can result in DWI arrests.
  • DWI Checkpoints and Increased Police Presence: Local law enforcement in Galveston County works hard to prevent accidents and injuries by maintaining a strong presence on the roads during New Year’s Eve. Increased DWI checkpoints are common, as officers are trained to look for signs of impairment such as erratic driving, swerving, or driving too slowly. With checkpoints strategically located near major roads and bars, the likelihood of getting caught driving under the influence rises.
  • No Refusal Weekends: Many New Year’s weekends in Galveston County are designated as “No Refusal” weekends. This means that if you are arrested for DWI and refuse to provide a breath or blood sample, officers have the authority to obtain a blood draw without your consent. This policy is part of an effort to ensure that impaired drivers are held accountable, even if they refuse testing, making DWI arrests during New Year’s even more common.

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

Understanding the Legal Process After a DWI Arrest in Galveston County

If you are arrested for DWI in Galveston County, the consequences can be severe. It is crucial to understand the steps that follow your arrest and how to navigate them with legal representation from a trusted firm like Zendeh Del & Associates PLLC.
  • The Initial Arrest and Booking Process: Once you are arrested for DWI, you will be taken to a local detention facility, such as the Galveston County Jail, for processing. During booking, personal information is collected, and you may be asked to provide a breath sample, undergo a blood test, or both. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is found to be above the legal limit of 0.08%, you will likely be formally charged with DWI.
  • Immediate Consequences: Following an arrest, you could face immediate consequences, including the suspension of your driver’s license. Texas law allows for an automatic administrative license suspension if you refuse to submit to a breath or blood test, or if you test over the legal limit. This suspension is typically 90 days for a first offense but can last longer for subsequent offenses.
  • The Court Process: After the arrest, a court hearing will be scheduled, usually within a few days. During the hearing, the court will determine whether to release you on bond, set trial dates, or explore other legal options. Depending on your situation, you may be offered a plea deal or face trial. If convicted, penalties for DWI can range from fines and license suspension to mandatory alcohol education programs, and even jail time for more severe cases.

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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.

Why You Should Hire Zendeh Del & Associates PLLC for Your DWI Defense

Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side during the DWI defense process is essential. Zendeh Del & Associates PLLC specializes in defending clients who have been charged with DWI offenses in Galveston County. Our experienced attorneys will ensure that you understand every aspect of your case and fight aggressively on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.
  • Expert Legal Defense: Zendeh Del & Associates PLLC has years of experience handling DWI cases in Galveston County. Our attorneys are well-versed in Texas DWI laws and have successfully defended numerous clients against such charges. We understand how to challenge evidence like breathalyzer results, question the legality of the traffic stop, and present your case in the most favorable light.
  • Plea Negotiations and Sentencing Alternatives: Many DWI cases are settled through plea negotiations, and a skilled attorney can help you avoid the harshest penalties by negotiating a plea deal that reduces charges or penalties. In some cases, it may be possible to have the charge reduced to a lesser offense or to seek alternative sentencing options, such as community service or probation, rather than jail time.
  • Protecting Your Rights: The most important part of a DWI case is protecting your rights. An arrest for DWI does not automatically mean you are guilty. You have the right to a fair trial, to challenge the evidence presented against you, and to have the case reviewed for procedural errors. With the help of our legal team, we will ensure that your rights are upheld at every stage of the process.

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

If you are facing DWI charges in Galveston County after the New Year’s celebrations, it is crucial to seek legal advice immediately. Zendeh Del & Associates PLLC offers free consultations to discuss your case and explore your options. We understand the serious consequences that come with a DWI charge and are committed to providing you with the aggressive legal representation you need. Contact us today at https://www.galvestonjustice.com/contact/ to schedule your consultation and begin your defense.

To learn more about this subject click here: How Prior Convictions Affect a New DWI Charge