Houston DWI Lawyer at Varghese Summersett

There are few things as devastating as facing a DWI charge in Houston.  Unlike most criminal charges, driving while intoxicated requires no intent to have committed the offense. So it comes as no surprise that individuals with no criminal history can find themselves in the crosshairs of a DWI prosecution. Our Houston DWI Lawyer understands this. Facing a DWI charge in Houston is more than just a legal challenge – it’s a fight for everything you care about. Your freedom, your reputation, your driving privileges, and your future are all at stake. At Varghese Summersett, we understand the gravity of your situation, and we’re here to stand by your side as your tireless defenders.

The Stakes Are High – Choose a Lawyer Who Can Defend It All

In Texas, driving is more than a convenience; it’s a virtual necessity. With only 15 days to save your license after a DWI arrest, you need a Houston DWI lawyer who can act fast and effectively.

Houston DWI Lawyer Team at Varghese Summersett

What Sets Varghese Summersett Apart?

1. Board Certified Specialists

Our team includes Board Certified specialists like Benson Varghese and Anna Summersett. This certification in criminal law is held by less than 1% of Texas attorneys and demonstrates our commitment to excellence in criminal defense.

2. Extensive Trial Experience

With hundreds of successful DWI trials under our belts, we bring unparalleled experience to your case. We’re as comfortable in the courtroom as we are at home, and it shows in our results. Houston DWI Lawyer Mike Hanson is a highly-sought after trial lawyer. Our lawyers have gone to trial on everything from misdemeanor DWIs to felony intoxication manslaughter charges.

3. Innovative Preparation

We’ve built a full courtroom in our office. From mock trials to witness prep, we use the courtroom to prepare for trial. That’s how committed we are to preparing the strongest possible defense for you. Our unique approach allows us to meticulously rehearse every aspect of your case, leaving no stone unturned.

4. Former Prosecutors Fighting for You

Our team includes former prosecutors who now dedicate their careers to defending the accused. This insider knowledge gives us a unique perspective on how the other side thinks and operates, allowing us to anticipate and counter their strategies.

5. Comprehensive DWI Expertise

We handle every level of DWI case in Texas. Our Board Certified criminal lawyers expertise covers the full spectrum of DWI charges, including:

Understanding DWI Charges in Texas

Texas law takes a strict approach to DWI cases, with penalties that escalate based on factors such as your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), prior offenses, and whether any injuries or fatalities occurred. This guide will break down the various types of DWI charges in Texas, their corresponding penalties, and the circumstances that may lead to enhanced charges.

DWI

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in Texas. For a first offense, penalties can include:

  • Fines up to $2,000
  • 3 to 180 days in jail
  • License suspension for up to a year
  • Annual surcharge up to $2,000 for three years to keep your license

DWI with BAC 0.15 or Greater

If your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.15 or higher, you’ll face enhanced penalties:

  • This is considered a Class A misdemeanor
  • Fines up to $4,000
  • Up to a year in jail

DWI Second Offense

A second DWI offense is also a Class A misdemeanor, but with increased penalties:

  • Fines up to $4,000
  • 30 days to a year in jail
  • License suspension for up to two years
  • Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device

DWI Felony

A third DWI offense is considered a third-degree felony:

  • 2 to 10 years in prison
  • Fines up to $10,000
  • License suspension for up to two years

Intoxication Assault and Manslaughter

These are more serious offenses involving injury or death:

  • Intoxication Assault: Second-degree felony, 2 to 20 years in prison
  • Intoxication Manslaughter: First-degree felony, 5 to 99 years in prison

DWI with Child Passenger

Driving while intoxicated with a child under 15 in the vehicle:

  • State jail felony
  • 180 days to 2 years in state jail
  • Fines up to $10,000.

Misdemeanor DWI Sentencing in Texas

Offense DWI 1st Offense DWI w/ Open Container DWI w/ ≥ 0.15 BAC DWI 2nd Offense
Punishment Class B with 72 hrs – 180 d. Jail; Fine $0-$2,000 (P.C. § 49.04(b)) Class B with 6 – 180 d. Jail; Fine $0-$2,000 (P.C. § 49.04(c)) Class A with 0 – 365 days Jail; $0-$4,000 (P.C. § 49.04(d)) Class A with 30 – 365 days Jail; $0-$4,000 (P.C. § 49.09(a))
DL Suspension 90 d. – 1 yr., except: < 21 at offense = 1 yr. (T.R.C. § 521.344(a)(2)(A)) 90 d. – 1 yr., except: < 21 at offense = 1 yr. (T.R.C. § 521.344(a)(2)(A)) 90 d. – 1 yr., except: < 21 at offense = 1 yr. (T.R.C. § 521.344(a)(2)(C)) 180 d. – 2 yrs., unless: prior w/in 5 yrs. = 1 – 2 yrs. (T.R.C. § 521.344(a)(2)(B))
Credit ALR? Shall Credit, *unless*: < 21 (T.R.C. § 521.344(c)(2)) or prior Chap. 49 Conv. (T.R.C. § 521.344(c)(1)) Shall Credit, *unless*: < 21 (T.R.C. § 521.344(c)(2)) or prior Chap. 49 Conv. (T.R.C. § 521.344(c)(1)) Shall Credit, *unless*: < 21 (T.R.C. § 521.344(c)(2)) or prior Chap 49 Conv. (T.R.C. § 521.344(c)(1)) N0 (T.R.C. § 521.344(c)(1))
Ignition Interlock Not Required Not Required Not Required Required if prior conviction is w/in 5 yrs. (P.C. § 49.09(h))

Our criminal defense attorneys stand between you and the government

The Varghese Summersett Approach to DWI Defense in Houston

Protecting Your License: The ALR Hearing

When you’re arrested for DWI, your driver’s license is taken, and you’re given a notice of suspension. You have only 15 days to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to contest this suspension. This hearing is crucial not only for maintaining your driving privileges but also for informing your criminal defense strategy.

Our experienced DWI lawyers know how to navigate the complex rules and procedures of ALR hearings. We’ll challenge every aspect of your arrest, including:

  • The validity of the initial stop
  • The existence of probable cause for your arrest
  • The validity of the process used to obtain a specimen of your breath or blood

Dismantling the Prosecution’s Case

In both your criminal case and the ALR hearing, our defense strategy is thorough and relentless. We meticulously challenge the evidence against you by examining every detail of the case. This includes scrutinizing the handling and analysis of chemical specimens, such as breath and blood tests, to ensure their accuracy and reliability.

Our approach also involves cross-examining key witnesses, including police officers and forensic specialists, to identify inconsistencies or weaknesses in their testimony. When necessary, we bring in expert witnesses to counter the prosecution’s claims and provide alternative interpretations of the evidence.

Additionally, we investigate any potential constitutional violations or procedural errors that may have occurred during your arrest or the collection of evidence. Every aspect of your case is analyzed with precision, leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice.

Collateral Consequences of a DWI

A DWI conviction can have far-reaching effects on your life, beyond just the legal penalties. These collateral consequences can include:

  • Security Clearance: A DWI can make it difficult to obtain or renew security clearances, potentially impacting your career in government or defense-related fields.
  • Professional Licenses: Many professional licenses, such as those for doctors, nurses, pilots, and lawyers, can be restricted or revoked following a DWI conviction.
  • Child Custody: A DWI conviction can negatively impact child custody and visitation arrangements in family court proceedings.
  • Employment and Housing: A criminal record can make it challenging to secure employment or housing, as many employers and landlords conduct background checks.
  • Insurance Rates: Your auto insurance rates are likely to increase significantly after a DWI conviction.
  • Travel Restrictions: Some countries may deny entry to individuals with DWI convictions on their record.

our bench is deep

Can you beat a DWI in Houston?

It’s possible to beat a DWI charge in Houston, but it’s nearly impossible to do it on your own. Many people make the mistake of pleading guilty, thinking it’s their only option. At Varghese Summersett, we. consider the following:

  • Long-term Consequences: A DWI conviction can affect your life long after any jail time or fines. It can impact your ability to get a job, rent a home, obtain loans, or secure professional licenses.
  • Potential Defenses: There may be numerous ways to challenge your DWI charge that aren’t immediately apparent. Our experienced attorneys know how to identify and leverage these opportunities.
  • Negotiation Power: Even if the evidence seems strong, having a skilled attorney can often result in reduced charges or penalties through negotiation.
  • Two Cases to Fight: Remember, a DWI arrest triggers both a criminal case and a civil case for your license suspension. Pleading guilty to the criminal charge doesn’t help your civil case.

Understanding DWI vs. DUI in Texas

While the terms DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and DUI (Driving Under the Influence) are often used interchangeably, in Texas, the official term is DWI. Texas law uses DWI for both alcohol and drug-related impaired driving offenses. Driving while intoxicated means you were not normal physically or mentally due to a substance in your body or your met .08 blood alcohol threshold. Driving under the influence, on the other hand, is an offense that applies to individuals who are under the age of 21 and have any detectable amount of alcohol in their system while operating a vehicle.

How Long Will a DWI Stay on Your Record?

In Texas, a DWI conviction will permanently stay on your criminal record unless it is expunged or sealed. Expungement is only possible in very limited circumstances, such as if you were arrested but never charged, you beat the case at trial, or if your case was dismissed. This is why fighting your DWI charge with an experienced attorney is so crucial – the consequences can truly last a lifetime.

The Varghese Summersett Difference: Why Who You Hire Matters

When you’re facing DWI charges in Houston, who you hire can make all the difference. Here’s why Varghese Summersett stands out:

  • Methodical, In-depth Preparation: We approach every case with meticulous attention to detail. Our attorneys are known for their thorough preparation, ensuring you’re in the best possible position when your day in court arrives.
  • Courtroom Excellence: Our attorneys are as comfortable arguing your case in court as they are in their own living rooms. This confidence and skill translate to powerful advocacy for you.
  • Commitment to Clients: We understand that facing a DWI charge is one of the most stressful experiences of your life. We’re not just your legal representatives; we’re your steadfast supporters throughout this challenging time.
  • Proven Results: Our track record speaks for itself. We’ve successfully defended hundreds of DWI cases, often achieving dismissals, acquittals, or significantly reduced charges.
After getting my 6th DWI, I found Varghese Summersett and was extremely glad I did! I was worried about having to serve prison time, but after my first meeting there with Bersa, she told me not to worry! They assigned me to a beautiful lawyer named Alex Thornton who was great!!! She got me 8 years probation and also got me a occupational driver's licence after they suspended mine for 2 years! I was extremely happy with this law firm and all their staff that helped me!!! Thank You
Kristen Carr is knowledgeable, caring and tough. I can’t thank her and her paralegals enough for guiding me through the divorce process.
As a Texas attorney, I can confidently say that if you're looking for a top-tier criminal defense attorney in Houston, you should hire Mike Hanson. I've known Mike personally for over 15 years, dating back to his days as a Division I football player, and followed his repeated wins in the courtroom on challenging cases throughout his legal career. Unlike many of us, he lives for and loves trial. He is not afraid of any legal challenge. His depth of knowledge and hunger to win in criminal defense is unmatched, and his reputation within the legal community speaks volumes. Anyone who has met Mike will attest to his dedication, skill, and integrity. As a lawyer, I would not hesitate to hire Mike Hanson at any stage in your case - whether facing criminal charges or simply seeking expert legal counsel. You won't find better representation than Mike and Varghese Summersett.
When people ask me what the best legal advice I can give as an attorney, I say it's to not get into a situation where you need one! Yet life is unpredictable, and if you find yourself where you need one, in that case, my advice is to go with the lawyer you can trust. Especially in a criminal defense situation, I would only hire Mike Hanson. When my clients need defense referrals, I only refer Mike because I know he'd take care of them like his own.
I made an excellent decision when I chose Ty Stimmons with Varghese Summersett as my attorney. He and his staff— Shantae, Natasha, Kaylon, Katie, and kept me updated on the progress of my cases. The staff guided me through the online process of completing forms and helped me retrieve the information I needed for my cases. What really helped me the most was that the staff allowed me to call the office whenever I had questions, concerns or needed information. I am extremely please with the law firm.
I was arrested on an assault charge with bodily injury to a family member. The judge put me on an EPO bond. Once released I returned to the vicinity of my home and noticed someone taking items from it.l confronted that person and arrested a second time for violation of a bond. While I was incarcerated the second time my property was being taken. I hired an attorney that I could not get in touch with nor even show up in court with me or respond to texts or emails. When he did come to court he said I was facing jail time. Not only was I dealing with the agony of my property being taken, now jail was added to my problems. I decided to change direction. I went to the law firm of Varghese/Summersett with Tiffany Burks and here team Mitch Monthie and Michelle Bahr taking the helm. After the first consultation with them taking on both charges, I left feeling confident that I chose the right team for. Not only was I kept informed on my cases but had very good representation each time I was in court. Needless to say today I’m free of all charges. Thanks to Tiffany and that magnificent team of lawyers. This firm is the one you want on your side “GREAT CHOICE “👌
With out a doubt I am very satisfied with and I highly recommend this excellent firm. I say this not only because of my favorable outcome, in my case a dismissal, which is what my attorney Christy Jack wanted from the start. I say this because it was the entire experience - from my very first phone call to the morning the case was decided and I said thank you and walk out feeling relaxed and fresh and ready to move on. I feel none of those lingering unpleasant feelings one is often left with after turning your life over to a stranger. I am so glad I withdrew from my first choice of attorney and went with my gut and hired this firm.
This firm operates as a team, is exceptionally responsive, efficient, and understanding of ones particular needs. I was able to maintain an active role and actually participate in my case on a daily basis through their online system. I was never left feeling things were out of my control or out of my hands. That was very helpful, crucial, as legal matters can be overwhelming and weigh heavy as things move along so slowly.

Several years later….

I want to reassure everyone that I still have very strong feelings about how well the difficult experience of going before the courts became a pleasant experience. Strange words for sure. What can be pleasant about something like this ?
Having a very supportive and competent lawyer backed by a very supportive and committed team.
I’ll cut to the point.
Go with your gut feelings. I did. And Christy Jack proved me right.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your stellar review of our firm. We are always happy to be a source of comfort to our clients during a tremulous time--all while working hard behind the scenes to get exceptional outcomes. Your review reflects Christy Jack's communication, helpfulness, and understanding throughout. We wish you the best!
We are incredibly grateful to Mrs. Christy Jack for her expertise and dedication as a criminal lawyer. My nephew was falsely accused of third-degree family violence, facing a potential sentence of 2 to 10 years. Despite the challenging situation, Mrs. Jack believed in him, trusted his account, and worked tirelessly to present the truth.

Thanks to her efforts, the prosecutor and grand jury recognized the facts, and all charges were dropped. Without her help, my nephew could have faced years in prison due to false accusations.

Mrs. Christy Jack’s exceptional service and commitment truly changed my nephew’s life, and we cannot thank her enough. Highly recommend her to anyone in need of a compassionate and skilled attorney.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing such a powerful review! We’re so grateful that Christy’s dedication and belief in your nephew’s case led to such a positive outcome. Your trust and recommendation mean the world to us, and we’re honored to have made a difference in your nephew’s life.
Julie & Turner have helped me with my divorce case since 2021, the BEST in the business and I wouldn’t trust anyone else. Between Communication and efficiency they go above and beyond. Highly recommend
Response from the owner:Thank you so much! We are thankful for your trust and couldn't agree more!
The best experience ever at this firm. They took care of us for over a year plus with our case. They worked hard to make sure our justice was served. I would choose them time and time again. I especially thank Shantae Haymer, Ty Stimpson and Katie Steele, for everything they have done. Do not hesitate to come to this firm, they will be your saving grace.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and heartfelt recommendation! We’re so glad Shantae, Ty, and Katie could provide you with dedicated support and deliver justice in your case. It was truly our honor to assist you, and we’re here for you whenever you need us.
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Don’t Face This Alone: Contact Varghese Summersett Today

A DWI arrest can be life-changing, but it doesn’t have to define your future. With Varghese Summersett on your side, you have a fighting chance to protect your freedom, your reputation, and your way of life.

Remember, time is critical in DWI cases. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building your defense. Don’t let crucial deadlines pass or important evidence slip away. Contact Varghese Summersett now for a confidential consultation.

When you’re in a fight for everything you care about, don’t settle for less than the best. Choose Varghese Summersett – Houston’s premier DWI defense team. We’re ready to stand with you and fight for the outcome you deserve.

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