DWI 0.15 or Higher Defense Lawyer in Tyler, TX | Cheryl A. Wulf, Attorney at Law
Charged with a DWI and a BAC of 0.15 or Higher? Get the Defense You Need
In Texas, being charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is serious, but the consequences become even more severe if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is measured at 0.15% or higher. This elevated BAC level can lead to enhanced penalties, including longer jail time, higher fines, and a longer driver’s license suspension. At Cheryl A. Wulf, Attorney at Law, we provide aggressive legal defense for individuals in Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas facing these elevated DWI charges. If you’ve been charged with a DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or higher, you need a skilled attorney who will fight to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your future.
What Does a DWI with 0.15 BAC or Higher Mean?
In Texas, the legal limit for BAC when operating a motor vehicle is 0.08%. However, if your BAC is measured at 0.15% or higher, the state considers this an aggravating factor, and the charge can be enhanced from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor, which carries significantly harsher penalties.
Penalties for DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or Higher
If convicted of a DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or higher in Texas, you may face the following penalties:
- Class A Misdemeanor
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Fines up to $4,000
- Driver’s license suspension for 180 days to 2 years
- Annual surcharge fees of up to $2,000 for 3 years to retain your driver’s license
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) as a condition for driving privileges
- A permanent criminal record, which can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses
These penalties are in addition to the standard consequences of a DWI, such as probation, community service, and mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs.
How Cheryl A. Wulf Defends DWI with 0.15 BAC or Higher Cases
At Cheryl A. Wulf, Attorney at Law, we understand that a DWI charge with a BAC of 0.15 or higher can have life-altering consequences. We offer an aggressive defense strategy aimed at reducing or dismissing charges whenever possible. Our defense approach includes:
1. Challenging the Accuracy of BAC Tests
Breathalyzer and blood tests are not always 100% accurate. Breathalyzer machines can malfunction or give false readings if not calibrated correctly, and blood samples can be mishandled. We thoroughly investigate how your BAC was tested and whether any errors occurred that could have impacted the results.
2. Examining the Legality of the Traffic Stop and Arrest
For a DWI charge to stand, the arresting officer must have had reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle and probable cause to arrest you. If the stop or arrest was conducted unlawfully, we may be able to get the evidence suppressed and the charges reduced or dismissed.
3. Exploring Alternative Sentencing Options
In some cases, we may be able to negotiate for alternative sentencing options such as probation, deferred adjudication, or alcohol rehabilitation programs. These alternatives can help you avoid jail time and reduce the long-term impact on your life.
4. Fighting for Reduced Charges
Even if you have a BAC of 0.15 or higher, we will fight to reduce your charges to a standard DWI or seek to negotiate a more favorable plea deal, which can minimize the penalties you face.
Why You Need an Experienced DWI Defense Lawyer
A DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or higher is not just a traffic violation—it’s a criminal offense with severe consequences. Having an experienced DWI defense lawyer on your side is critical to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Cheryl A. Wulf has years of experience defending clients against DWI charges in Tyler, TX, and understands the nuances of Texas DWI law. She will work tirelessly to develop a strong defense strategy and ensure you receive fair treatment under the law.
What to Expect After a DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or Higher Arrest
After your arrest, you will face a series of legal steps, including:
- Arraignment: The first court appearance where you will be formally charged and enter a plea.
- Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Hearing: A separate civil proceeding where the Texas Department of Public Safety will determine whether to suspend your driver’s license. You have 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an ALR hearing.
- Pre-Trial Hearings and Trial: Your attorney will file motions, review evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or prepare for trial if necessary.
FAQs About DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or Higher in Texas
What happens if I’m convicted of a DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or higher?
A conviction for DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or higher in Texas is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, with penalties that can include up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $4,000, and a driver’s license suspension.
Can a DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or higher be reduced to a standard DWI?
Yes, depending on the circumstances of your case, it may be possible to negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing. An experienced attorney can evaluate the evidence and explore options for reducing the charge to a standard DWI, which carries lesser penalties.
Do I need a lawyer for a DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or higher?
Yes, having a lawyer is crucial when facing a DWI with enhanced penalties. A Class A misdemeanor can have serious long-term consequences, and an experienced attorney can help protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and work to minimize the penalties.
Contact Cheryl A. Wulf for DWI 0.15 or Higher Defense
If you’ve been charged with a DWI with a BAC of 0.15 or higher in Tyler, Texas, it’s important to act quickly. Cheryl A. Wulf, Attorney at Law, is here to provide aggressive defense and protect your future.
Call us at (903) 525-9869 or use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
Cheryl A. Wulf, Attorney at Law
11702 Hwy 64 E, Tyler, TX 75707
Phone: (903) 525-9869
Fax: (866) 824-4469
