If you are given a DWI probation in Texas, this means the judge is allowing you to avoid jail by giving you the chance to abide by certain rules for a specified time. Probation reduces certain penalties associated with a DWI conviction, such as jail time and fines. In Texas violating this type of probation guidelines is a serious offense and will likely cause the judge to rescind conditions of your probation. In some cases, an excellent criminal defense lawyer may persuade the judge to give you a second chance.
Conditions Involved in a DWI Probation
In addition to reduced jail time and fines, DWI probation conditions could involve random drug/alcohol testing, attending DWI classes, staying out of further trouble with the law, rehabilitative counseling and keeping your driving record clean for a certain time period. In addition, terms of your probation may include the use of an interlock ignition device to prevent you from driving after you have been drinking.
What Happens to Residents of Texas Violating DWI Probation?
Reasons you may be charged with violating this type of probation include:
- Failing to meet with a probation officer (assigned by the courts)
- Failing a drug/alcohol test
- Failing to make probation payments
- Failing to attend court-ordered counseling, classes or rehab
- Getting arrested for another DWI or other crime
Violating DWI probation in Texas could result in one or more of the following:
- Reinstatement of the original punishment (specifically, jail time)
- Revocation of your driver’s license
Once the judge discovers you have violated probation, a hearing is usually set to determine what should be re-established as part of your punishment. One of two things will happen. Either your probation will be reinstated (with additional conditions) or your probation will be revoked and a person could be sentenced to jail.
Are you currently on probation for a DWI or have been charged with violating probation? Don’t go it alone. Contact the experienced, professional attorneys at Gebhardt and Eppes, PLLC Today.
