The Costs of a DWI in Houston, Texas

As a Houston DWI Attorney I dislike having to break it to people all the costs that are associated with a DWI. Most people know the consequences of a DWI conviction.  There is jail, fines, and the revocation of driving privileges.  The costs of a DWI conviction can range from losing your freedom, to losing your hard earned money, to the very right to travel outside the United States of America.

Texas legislators have found that someone convicted of DWI is an easy target.   For example, in Texas there are mandatory conditions for a DWI conviction.  Two examples include, DWI School as well as a Victim Impact Panel. The Victim Impact Panel is a humbling meeting for the accused, made up of Mothers Against Drunk Drivers members who convey harrowing stories of DWI victims.  In other instances the Ignition Interlock Device is required and community service will also be involved.

There are many costs associated with a DWI.  There are attorney fees, fines, court fees, mandatory surcharges imposed by DPS, potential civil suits, electronic home monitoring, time lost from work, programs and community service, license reinstatement fees, Interlock device, alcohol treatment, insurance premium rates rising, towing and storage fees. A conservative estimate would easily put the costs in the neighborhood of $10,000.

There are other consequences of a DWI conviction which involve more than money. Many automobile rental agencies will refuse your business. If you are convicted, you may not be able to obtain life insurance at any price. Likewise, many health insurance companies will charge you an extra premium, or deny you coverage. A  conviction may restrict you from traveling to some countries. Most countries only exclude you for a felony, but some, like Canada, treat all criminal convictions, including DWI as a basis for exclusion from the country.

If you have any questions regarding a DWI please contact our law firm.  We offer free consultations.