Denton DWI – Drugged Driving Defense Attorney


Most people think that the crime of driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated (DUI/DWI) refers to driving after having too much to drink. The truth is, however, that a person can be charged with a DWI in Texas if they are impaired by a variety of substances, and not just alcohol alone. Here’s what you need to know about drugged driving in Texas:

What Does “Intoxicated” Mean in Texas?

  • A person commits a DWI offense when they are operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. According to Texas Penal Code, Chapter 49, when they do not have the normal use of mental or physical faculties as a direct result of drinking alcohol or taking a controlled substance or drug, or a combination of these substances, or any other substance.

This means that a person who has taken any drug, to the point that the drug causes impairment of normal operations, could be arrested for, charged with, and convicted of a DWI if they are operating a motor vehicle. This includes illegal drugs and prescription or over-the-counter medications.

What Are the Penalties for a DWI in Texas?

Being charged with a DWI in Texas is a very serious offense, and could carry heavy penalties if you are convicted. In most cases, a DWI charge is a class B misdemeanor with a minimum confinement of 72 hours. If the amount of alcohol in a person’s blood was a .15 or more percent, the offense is a Class A misdemeanor. The offense is also more serious if it is a person’s second or subsequent offense. If you have a child passenger in your car at the time of the DWI, the offense is a felony and the penalties are extremely serious, including up to two years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.

Defending Yourself Against a DWI – Drugged Driving Charge in Texas

If you have been charged with a DWI and accused of drugged driving, it is important that you retain legal counsel to protect yourself as soon as possible. At the law offices of Brent D. Bowen, Attorney at Law, our lawyer can help you to understand possible defenses to drugged driving charges, and build your case. For example, one defense is that you were under the influence of a prescription medication, which you had taken legally, and were unaware that the medication would have such impairing side effects.

Contact Our Law Offices for Legal Counsel in Denton Today

If you are convicted of a DWI in Denton or surrounding areas of Texas, the penalties could be severe. To protect yourself and secure the best possible outcome for your case, do not hesitate to contact an experienced Denton drugged driving attorney. Brent D. Bowen, Attorney at Law, is the talented criminal defense attorney you’re looking for. To schedule your consultation, reach our law firm by phone or online today.