DWI & Alcohol-Related Offense Defense Lawyers in North Texas
A DWI arrest can change your life in a matter of minutes.
One traffic stop can lead to criminal charges, license issues, court appearances, increased insurance costs, employment concerns, and uncertainty about what comes next. When an accident is involved, the stakes become even higher. Allegations of intoxicated assault or intoxicated manslaughter can place your freedom, your reputation, and your future at risk.
At Madson Law, we defend individuals facing DWI and alcohol-related criminal charges throughout North Texas. We understand that many good people find themselves in difficult situations after making a mistake, exercising poor judgment, or simply being accused of something the government may not be able to prove.
If you have been arrested or believe you are under investigation, the decisions you make now matter.
Alcohol-Related Charges We Handle
Madson Law represents clients facing a wide range of alcohol-related offenses, including:
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
- Intoxicated Assault
- Intoxicated Manslaughter
These cases often involve complex scientific evidence, police procedures, blood testing, breath testing, accident reconstruction, and constitutional issues. They require a careful review of every detail rather than assumptions based solely on an arrest report.
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
A DWI charge is one of the most common criminal offenses prosecuted in Texas, but that doesn’t make it any less serious.
Under Texas law, a person may be charged with DWI if prosecutors allege they were operating a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. Intoxication can be based on an alleged blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher, or on claims that alcohol or drugs impaired the person’s normal mental or physical faculties.
A first-offense DWI is typically charged as a misdemeanor, but the consequences can still be significant. Potential penalties may include:
- Jail time
- Fines and court costs
- Driver’s license suspension
- Community supervision
- Mandatory education programs
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
- Increased insurance costs
- A permanent criminal record
The consequences often extend far beyond the courtroom.
Intoxicated Assault
When a DWI allegation involves serious bodily injury to another person, prosecutors may pursue intoxicated assault charges.
Under Texas law, intoxicated assault generally occurs when a person allegedly causes serious bodily injury to another while operating a motor vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or amusement ride while intoxicated.
These cases are far more serious than a standard DWI. Intoxicated assault is typically charged as a third-degree felony and may carry penalties that include:
- 2 to 10 years in prison
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Community supervision
- Driver’s license suspension
- A permanent felony record
One accident can lead to multiple charges if multiple individuals allegedly suffered serious injuries.
Intoxicated Manslaughter
Few criminal accusations carry consequences as severe as intoxicated manslaughter.
When a fatality occurs, and prosecutors believe intoxication played a role, they may file intoxicated manslaughter charges. These cases are emotionally charged, heavily investigated, and aggressively prosecuted.
The emotional weight of these cases affects everyone involved, including the accused and their family. At the same time, every person accused of a crime is entitled to a thorough defense and the full protections provided by law.
Penalties for Intoxicated Manslaughter
Intoxicated manslaughter is generally charged as a second-degree felony in Texas. Potential penalties include:
- 2 to 20 years in prison
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Driver’s license suspension
- Community supervision in limited circumstances
- A permanent felony conviction
In cases involving multiple fatalities, prosecutors may pursue multiple counts, significantly increasing potential exposure. The consequences are substantial, which is why these cases demand immediate legal attention.
Not Every DWI Arrest Leads to a Conviction
Many people assume that an arrest automatically means they will be convicted. That is simply not true. DWI cases often involve questions regarding:
- The legality of the traffic stop
- Field sobriety testing procedures
- Breath test reliability
- Blood testing protocols
- Police observations
- Medical conditions that may affect testing
- Constitutional violations during the investigation
A DWI case is only as strong as the evidence supporting it. That evidence should be carefully examined before any decision is made about how to proceed.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Many people don’t realize that important decisions in DWI and intoxication cases happen long before trial.
Evidence must be preserved. Witnesses must be interviewed. Video footage may need to be obtained before it disappears. Blood testing procedures may need to be challenged.
Administrative driver’s license issues often have strict deadlines. The earlier an attorney becomes involved, the more opportunities may exist to protect your rights and develop an effective defense strategy.
What to Do After a DWI or Intoxication Arrest
If you have been arrested or contacted by law enforcement regarding a DWI, intoxicated assault, or intoxicated manslaughter investigation:
- Remain calm
- Exercise your right to remain silent
- Do not answer questions without legal counsel
- Avoid discussing the case on social media
- Preserve any documents or evidence related to the incident
Even seemingly harmless statements can become evidence later.
Strategic Defense. Honest Guidance.
At Madson Law, we know that people charged with alcohol-related offenses are often experiencing one of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Our job is to provide clear answers, realistic expectations, and a thoughtful defense strategy based on the facts of your case. We will tell you the good, the bad, and the ugly. We will explain your options. And we will work hard to protect your future at every step.
We cannot promise a specific outcome, but we can promise preparation, honesty, and a defense built on experience and strategy.
Schedule a Free 30-Minute Consultation
If you have been charged with DWI, intoxicated assault, intoxicated manslaughter, or another alcohol-related offense in North Texas, contact Madson Law today.
We offer free 30-minute consultations and are ready to help you understand your options and begin building a plan for the future.
Schedule a Free 30-Minute ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my driver’s license after a DWI arrest?
A DWI arrest can trigger both criminal proceedings and separate driver’s license consequences. In many cases, there are strict deadlines for challenging a suspension or protecting your driving privileges. Acting quickly can be important to preserving your options.
Can I refuse a breath or blood test in Texas?
Texas has implied consent laws, meaning a refusal can carry consequences even if no conviction occurs. Depending on the circumstances, a refusal may lead to license-related penalties and can become an issue in the criminal case. The specific facts of the stop and investigation matter.
Can a DWI charge be dismissed?
Some DWI cases are dismissed due to evidentiary problems, constitutional issues, testing concerns, or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Every case is different, and the possibility of dismissal depends on the specific facts, evidence, and circumstances involved.
What happens after a first-time DWI arrest?
The process may include bond conditions, court appearances, driver’s license issues, and the collection of evidence by prosecutors. While a first arrest can be overwhelming, it is important to remember that an arrest is not the same as a conviction, and there may be defenses available.
How long does a DWI stay on my record?
The answer depends on how the case is resolved and whether any record-clearing options become available. Certain DWI-related records can continue affecting employment, housing, and other opportunities long after the criminal case is over.
What penalties can a DWI conviction carry?
Potential penalties may include fines, jail time, probation, driver’s license consequences, ignition interlock requirements, and other court-ordered conditions. The penalties often increase for repeat offenses or cases involving aggravating circumstances.
Disclaimer. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.
Copyright ©2026 Madson Law | The information on this site does not constitute legal advice.
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