Tarrant County DWI Lawyers

If you find yourself on this page, it’s likely that you or someone you care about is dealing with the aftermath of a DWI charge in Tarrant County. At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we understand that facing such charges can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming. Our goal is to offer you support and to guide you through this challenging time with empathy and dedication. We are here to help you navigate the legal system and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.

The Consequences of a DWI Conviction

In Tarrant County, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is taken very seriously, and the penalties can be severe. If you are convicted of a DWI for the first time, you could face a fine of up to $2,000. Additionally, you may be sentenced to up to 180 days in jail, with a minimum of three days that must be served. On top of this, your driver’s license could be suspended for up to a year.

For a second DWI offense, the penalties become even harsher. You could be fined up to $4,000. The jail time could range from one month to a year, and your driver’s license might be suspended for up to two years. A third offense is treated with the utmost severity. The fines for a third DWI conviction can reach up to $10,000. Incarceration can last from two to ten years, and your driver’s license can be revoked for up to two years. It is important to note that these fines do not include additional state fines, which can be $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000, depending on the case.

Charges Involving Child Passengers

If you are caught driving while impaired with a child under the age of 15 in the vehicle, the charges are elevated to child endangerment. This situation can lead to additional consequences. You could face a fine of up to $10,000 and a potential jail sentence of up to two years. Furthermore, your driver’s license could be suspended for an additional 180 days.

Why Choosing McCarty-Larson, PLLC is Crucial for Your Tarrant County DWI Case

When facing DWI charges in Tarrant County, selecting the right legal team can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we offer more than just legal representation. Our firm brings over 50 years of combined experience in criminal defense, a background led by former law enforcement officers and prosecutors, and an impressive track record of positive client reviews.

Decades of Combined Experience

Our team’s extensive experience in criminal defense law ensures that you are represented by professionals who understand the complexities of DWI cases. With over five decades of combined experience, we have navigated numerous DWI cases, which has given us a deep understanding of the legal system and the nuances of DWI law in Tarrant County. This wealth of experience equips us to handle your case with attention to detail.

Former Law Enforcement and Prosecutor-Led Firm

McCarty-Larson, PLLC is led by individuals with a unique perspective on the legal process. Our founders have backgrounds as former law enforcement officers and prosecutors. This dual perspective allows us to anticipate the strategies and tactics used by the opposition and to counter them effectively. Our understanding of both sides of the courtroom enables us to craft a strong defense and identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Outstanding Reputation

We are proud of our reputation for excellence, as evidenced by over 270 five-star reviews on Google. Our clients consistently commend our dedication, professionalism, and the results we achieve. This positive feedback reflects our commitment to providing high-quality legal representation and our success in defending clients against DWI charges.

Defenses Against DWI Charges

Several defenses can be used in a DWI case, and choosing a knowledgeable team like McCarty-Larson, PLLC is crucial in leveraging these defenses effectively.

Constitutional Rights Violations

One of the primary defenses involves constitutional rights violations. If your rights were violated during your arrest or detainment, such as illegal searches or a failure to read your Miranda rights, we can challenge the legality of your arrest and seek to have the evidence against you dismissed. It is important that law enforcement respects your rights, and any breach can significantly impact the case.

Breath Test Defenses

Breathalyzer tests are commonly used in DWI cases, but they are not infallible. Factors such as recent burping, use of mouthwash, diabetes, or certain medications can affect the accuracy of these tests. Additionally, the breathalyzer must be properly calibrated and maintained. We can challenge the accuracy of the breath test if there are issues with the calibration or the qualifications of the person administering the test.

Blood Draw Defenses

Blood tests are another method used to determine blood alcohol content (BAC). For these tests to be reliable, they must follow strict protocols. We can challenge blood test results by examining potential issues with the sample handling or testing procedures. Any deviations from proper protocols can be grounds for disputing the test results.

Illegal Stops

Police must have a valid reason to stop a vehicle on suspicion of DWI. If they lacked probable cause, any evidence collected during the stop may be challenged. Valid reasons for a stop include erratic driving, speeding inconsistently, or other observable issues. If the stop was not legally justified, we can argue that the evidence should be excluded from your case.

Failure to Prove Elements of DWI

The prosecution must prove every element of the DWI charge beyond a reasonable doubt. A common challenge is proving that you were in actual control of the vehicle. For instance, if you were found sleeping in the car with the keys not in the ignition, the prosecution may struggle to prove that you were driving under the influence.

Field Sobriety Test Defenses

Field sobriety tests can be unreliable indicators of impairment. Various factors, such as injuries, age, or certain medical conditions, can affect the results. We can challenge the results of these tests by highlighting factors that may have influenced their accuracy.

Affirmative Defenses

Affirmative defenses, such as duress or mistake of fact, aim to negate criminal liability. For example, if you were forced to drive under threat or had a reasonable belief that negates your culpability, we can present evidence to support these defenses.

Free Consultations and Serious Consequences

At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and explore your options. DWI convictions can lead to severe consequences, including fines, jail time, a criminal record, and a suspended driver’s license. Our team is here to guide you through the complicated court and administrative proceedings and help you determine the best strategy for a successful outcome.

Mistakes to Avoid After a DWI Arrest in Tarrant County

If you’ve been arrested for a DWI in Tarrant County, it’s crucial to handle the situation carefully. Making informed decisions now can significantly influence the outcome of your case. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Not Contacting a Lawyer

One of the most critical mistakes you can make is failing to reach out to a lawyer immediately after your arrest. A knowledgeable lawyer can offer crucial advice and guide you through the legal process. Without legal assistance, you might miss important deadlines or make decisions that could negatively affect your case.

Speaking Too Much to the Police

During your arrest, you might feel the urge to explain your side of the story or answer questions from the police. However, talking too much can lead to misunderstandings or even incriminate yourself. It’s wise to exercise your right to remain silent until you have legal representation.

Ignoring Court Dates

After a DWI arrest, you will have court dates and deadlines to attend. Ignoring these dates can result in additional legal trouble, such as warrants for your arrest or further charges. Keeping track of your court schedule is essential for handling your case properly.

Not Understanding the Consequences

A DWI conviction can lead to serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Understanding these potential outcomes and how they may impact your life is vital. A lawyer can help you grasp the full impact of a DWI charge and work to reduce the penalties.

How McCarty-Larson, PLLC Can Help

At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, we recognize that dealing with a DWI charge can be stressful and confusing. Our team of Tarrant County DWI lawyers is here to help you through this challenging time.

Personalized Legal Advice

Our experienced lawyers will provide you with tailored legal advice based on your unique situation. We will explain the charges against you, the possible outcomes, and the best strategies for your defense.

Guidance Through the Legal Process

We will guide you through every step of the legal process, from interactions with law enforcement to court appearances. Our goal is to ensure that you are well-prepared and informed at each stage of your case. We will work hard to build a strong defense for you. This may involve challenging the evidence against you, negotiating with prosecutors, or presenting a case that highlights any errors in the arrest process.

Tarrant County DWI Lawyers Client Story

This client story is for educational purposes only.

Daniel had always been a careful driver. He knew the rules of the road and followed them strictly. So, when he found himself being pulled over one night, he was shocked and scared. The officer told him he had failed a breath test and his blood alcohol content was 0.12. This meant he was over the legal limit in Tarrant County. Daniel felt his heart sink. He knew that a DWI charge could change his life forever.

Desperate for help, Daniel searched for Tarrant County DWI lawyers. He came across McCarty-Larson, PLLC, and read about how they had helped others in tough situations. He decided to reach out to them. That’s when he met Robin McCarty. Robin listened carefully as Daniel explained everything that had happened. He was kind and understanding, which gave Daniel a little bit of hope.

Robin began working on Daniel’s case with all his effort. He looked into every detail, talked to specialists, and examined all the evidence. Robin didn’t just see a client; he saw a person who needed help. He believed in Daniel’s innocence and fought hard to show that the evidence wasn’t as strong as it seemed.

Weeks passed, and each day Daniel grew more anxious. He worried about what would happen to his job, his family, and his future. But Robin never gave up. He kept working and kept fighting, always reassuring Daniel that he was doing everything he could.

One day, Daniel received incredible news. Robin had managed to get the charges against him dismissed. Daniel couldn’t believe it. The fear and stress he had been carrying around were suddenly lifted. He was free and his life could go back to normal.

Contact McCarty-Larson, PLLC for Your DWI Case

If you have been arrested for DWI in Tarrant County, it’s important to get help from a legal team that understands the complexities of these cases. At McCarty-Larson, PLLC, our Tarrant County DWI lawyers are here to support you every step of the way. We offer free consultations to discuss your situation and help you understand your options.

Our team is dedicated to working hard on your behalf. We know how challenging this time can be, and we are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome in your case. Whether you are facing a first offense or have prior convictions, we will use our knowledge and experience to guide you through the legal process and work towards a positive resolution.

Don’t navigate this alone. Reach out to McCarty-Larson, PLLC today to schedule your free consultation. We are ready to stand by your side and provide the legal support you need during this critical time.