Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charges are serious matters in Texas, especially in Galveston County. Unfortunately, misconceptions about DWIs often lead individuals to unknowingly compromise their legal defenses. At Zendeh Del & Associates, PLLC, Galveston’s premier criminal defense and DWI law firm, we’re dedicated to debunking these myths and ensuring our community is well-informed.
Myth #1: You Must Perform Field Sobriety Tests
The Truth: You Have the Right to Refuse
Contrary to popular belief, Texas drivers are not legally required to perform field sobriety tests (FSTs). These tests can be subjective and challenging even for sober individuals. Politely declining to participate in these tests is within your legal rights and can help limit potentially damaging evidence.
Myth #2: A Breathalyzer Test Result Guarantees Conviction
The Truth: Breathalyzer Tests Are Not Always Accurate
Breathalyzer devices can produce inaccurate results due to improper calibration, operator error, or medical conditions. Experienced DWI defense attorneys regularly challenge breathalyzer evidence, demonstrating these inaccuracies and potentially reducing or dismissing charges.
Myth #3: Refusing a Breathalyzer Means Automatic Guilt
The Truth: Refusal May Carry Consequences, but It Isn’t an Admission of Guilt
While refusing a breathalyzer test can result in license suspension under Texas’s implied consent laws, it does not equate to guilt in a criminal DWI case. Prosecutors must still prove intoxication beyond a reasonable doubt, and refusal alone doesn’t meet this standard.
Myth #4: All DWI Charges Lead to Jail Time
The Truth: Alternative Outcomes Are Possible
Many people wrongly assume that a DWI conviction automatically results in jail. While jail time can occur, Texas law provides alternatives such as probation, community service, mandatory counseling, and alcohol education programs. An effective DWI defense lawyer can negotiate for these outcomes.
Myth #5: Any Lawyer Can Handle a DWI Case
The Truth: Specialized DWI Defense is Crucial
Not all lawyers have the specialized knowledge and experience needed to effectively defend against DWI charges. Texas DWI law is complex, and only attorneys with focused expertise, like the lawyers at Zendeh Del & Associates, PLLC, understand how to effectively challenge evidence and build a robust defense.
Protect Your Future with Galveston’s Leading DWI Attorneys
Understanding the reality behind common DWI myths can significantly impact your legal outcomes. At Zendeh Del & Associates, PLLC, we leverage our extensive experience to aggressively defend our clients and protect their rights.
If you’re facing a DWI charge, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact our team 24/7 for a confidential and comprehensive consultation:
📞 (409) 740-1111
🌐 www.GalvestonJustice.com
🌐 www.GalvestonJustice.com
Trust Galveston’s top-rated criminal defense and DWI attorneys to provide the expert representation you deserve.