Multiple DWI Attorney in Hidalgo County

Facing Repeat DWI Charges? Know Your Rights & Options in Hidalgo County

Multiple DWI charges in Hidalgo County carry serious consequences. Texas law increases penalties for each additional conviction, and the effects reach far beyond the courtroom. Our team at Anthony M. Ortega Law, PLLC guides clients through every stage, making sure you understand your rights and opportunities to protect your future. 

If you face a second, third, or subsequent DWI, timelines move quickly, and local courts expect prompt action. Our firm provides clear answers about possible jail time, fines, and license restrictions so you feel prepared—not overwhelmed—by what comes next.

Contact a multiple DWI attorney in Hidalgo County at Anthony M. Ortega Law, PLLC, today. We are former prosecutors, available 24/7, and offer bilingual and free consultations to provide immediate and strategic defense. Call us at (956) 300-1402 or fill out our online form to schedule your appointment.

Understanding Multiple DWI Laws in Texas

In Texas, DWI stands for "Driving While Intoxicated," and it is defined as operating a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. The state has a tiered system of penalties for DWI offenses, and the consequences increase with each subsequent conviction. A skilled multiple DWI attorney in Hidalgo County will understand the nuances of these laws and how they apply to your specific situation.

• Second DWI: A second DWI offense is a Class A misdemeanor. A conviction carries a potential fine of up to $4,000 and a jail sentence of 30 days to one year. Your license will also be suspended for up to two years. You will likely be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle.
• Third DWI (and subsequent DWIs): A third DWI offense is a felony. A conviction carries a potential fine of up to $10,000 and a state prison sentence of 2 to 10 years. Your driver's license will be suspended for up to two years, and you will be required to install an IID.

It is important to understand that in Texas, a DWI is considered a prior offense if it occurred within the past ten years. However, all prior DWI convictions, regardless of how old they are, can be used to enhance the current charge to a felony. This is a key reason why securing a skilled Hidalgo County multiple DWI lawyer is so critical; we can challenge the validity of prior convictions.

As former prosecutors, a Hidalgo County multiple DWI lawyer from our firm is highly skilled at challenging the prosecution's evidence of intoxication, including:

• Field Sobriety Tests: We can argue that these tests are subjective and that your poor performance could be due to other factors, such as fatigue, an underlying medical condition, or the weather.
• Breathalyzer Test: We can challenge the validity of the breathalyzer test by questioning the calibration of the machine, the qualifications of the operator, and whether the test was administered properly.
• Blood Test: We can challenge the chain of custody of the blood sample, the accuracy of the lab results, and whether the blood was drawn in a legal manner.

We will use our specialized knowledge to create reasonable doubt and fight for the best possible outcome. This is the difference an experienced multiple DWI attorney in Hidalgo County can make.

Penalties of a Repeated DWI Conviction in Hidalgo County

A multiple DWI conviction in Texas can have devastating and long-lasting consequences. Beyond the immediate penalties, a conviction can impact every aspect of your life.

• Criminal Record: A felony conviction will stay on your record forever, making it difficult to find a job, secure housing, or obtain professional licenses. A Hidalgo County multiple DWI lawyer will fight to keep this from happening.
• Increased Insurance Rates: Your auto insurance premiums will skyrocket, and you will likely be required to obtain expensive SR-22 high-risk insurance.
• Employment Issues: Many employers will not hire a person with a felony record, and a conviction could lead to the loss of your current job.
• Immigration Issues: A DWI conviction can have severe consequences for non-citizens, including deportation.
• Loss of Civil Rights: A felony conviction in Texas can lead to the loss of your right to vote and your right to possess a firearm.

The Legal Process for Multiple DWI Charges in Hidalgo County

Repeat DWI charges in the area bring unique challenges. Understanding each phase is key. 

Here’s what you can expect from start to finish:

• Arrest & booking: Local law enforcement processes arrests at county facilities and records all relevant details.
• First appearance: The court schedules your initial hearing, where you hear charges and learn your rights.
• Driver’s license hearings: Texas law often requires a separate administrative proceeding to address your driving privileges. Acting within required timeframes may help protect your options.
• Case review & negotiation: Building a strong defense may involve gathering documents, verifying prior convictions, or discussing available paths based on your record. The next steps often depend on your history and the circumstances of the arrest.
• Hearings & resolution: Multiple hearings or negotiations may occur before reaching a final outcome. Every step can affect penalties and long-term results.

Court procedures in Hidalgo County create specific expectations for repeat DWI cases. Some local courts set dedicated days for DWI matters and require additional documentation or program compliance. Missing these details can complicate your case. Our team works to keep you on track with a clear calendar and reminders for every appointment.

Our Comprehensive Approach to DWI Defense

As former prosecutors, our firm has the specialized knowledge to handle even the most complex DWI cases. We believe in a proactive, strategic approach that anticipates the prosecution's tactics and challenges their evidence at every turn.

• Challenging the Traffic Stop: We will scrutinize the reason for the initial traffic stop. If the police lacked probable cause, any evidence they collected afterward may be inadmissible in court.
• Attacking the Field Sobriety Tests: We will argue that the field sobriety tests were not administered correctly or that your performance was affected by other factors.
• Disputing the Breath and Blood Tests: We will challenge the accuracy of the test results, the calibration of the equipment, and the chain of custody of the samples. A multiple DWI attorney in Hidalgo County with our experience can spot the errors that others might miss.
• Strategic Negotiations: We will use our knowledge of the law and the weaknesses in the prosecution's case to negotiate for a reduction of the charge to a lesser offense, such as Obstruction of a Highway or Reckless Driving.

Our firm is committed to a thorough and detailed investigation to uncover the facts and build a compelling defense. We are available 24/7 and offer bilingual services.

Why Choose a Multiple DWI Lawyer in Hidalgo County

Hiring a multiple DWI lawyer in Hidalgo County means selecting someone who understands both Texas law and local expectations. At Anthony M. Ortega Law, PLLC, we grew up in this community and value honest, clear service. Our clients work directly with the attorney from consultation to resolution, receiving one-on-one guidance and prompt responses to every question. 

Our clients benefit from our deep connections to the Hidalgo County area and our commitment to transparent, supportive legal service. Because every court in the area handles DWI cases with its own procedures and timelines, our direct experience helps us guide you through the details that matter most for multiple DWI defense.

We structure our fees to reflect the realities of each unique situation, removing barriers that prevent you from seeking the help you need. As a longstanding member of the community, our team treats every client with dignity and respect.

Contact Our Multiple DWI Lawyer in Hidalgo County for Guidance

Take control by calling (956) 300-1402 for a free consultation with a multiple DWI attorney in Hidalgo County. You will meet directly with a lawyer who understands the region's laws and court processes. We prioritize open communication and affordable fees while keeping you informed every step of the way. Reach out to discuss your situation and find a path forward. 

Call (956) 300-1402 today to schedule your consultation and start protecting your future.