San Antonio Commercial DWI Lawyer
Experienced Defense Against Commercial DWI Charges in Texas
At The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen, we specialize in providing top-notch legal representation for individuals facing commercial DWI charges in San Antonio and the surrounding areas. If you find yourself in a situation where you or your employees are facing commercial DWI charges, it's crucial to have an experienced San Antonio commercial DWI lawyer on your side. Our skilled Texas attorneys are dedicated to defending your rights and helping you navigate the complex legal landscape of commercial DWI cases in Texas.
Call The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen today at (210) 405-9730 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our commercial DWI attorney in San Antonio!
What is a Commercial DWI?
A Commercial DWI, or Driving While Intoxicated, is a legal charge that arises when a person operating a commercial vehicle is found to be driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Commercial vehicles include trucks, buses, and any vehicle used for transporting goods or passengers for compensation. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Texas is generally 0.08%, but it is significantly lower at 0.04% for commercial drivers. This lower limit reflects the higher level of responsibility placed on commercial drivers due to the potential dangers associated with their vehicles.
Commercial DWI cases are unique because they involve standard DWI laws, specific regulations, and consequences that apply exclusively to commercial drivers. These cases demand a deep understanding of state and federal transportation laws, making it crucial to have a skilled San Antonio commercial DWI lawyer who is well-versed in these areas.
Commercial DWI and CDL Disqualification
One of the most significant concerns for commercial drivers facing DWI charges is the potential disqualification of their commercial driver’s license. A CDL is essential for many people’s livelihoods, and losing it can lead to job loss and financial hardship.
In Texas, a conviction for driving under the influence while operating a commercial vehicle can result in the following disqualifications:
- First Offense: A first-time commercial DWI conviction typically results in a one-year disqualification of your CDL. This means you will not be legally allowed to drive a commercial vehicle for one year.
- Second Offense: A second offense will likely result in a lifetime disqualification of your CDL, meaning you will never be able to drive a commercial vehicle again.
- Refusal to Submit to Testing: If you refuse to submit to a breathalyzer or blood test, you can face a one-year disqualification, even if you were not ultimately convicted of a DWI charge.
Because of these potential consequences, it is critical to have a dedicated San Antonio commercial DWI lawyer on your side. A lawyer can help build a defense that challenges the charges and works toward keeping your CDL intact.
What are the Penalties for a Commercial DWI in Texas?
The penalties for a commercial DWI conviction in Texas can be severe and have long-lasting consequences. It's essential to understand what you might face if you are convicted:
- License Disqualification: A first-time commercial DWI conviction can lead to a one-year CDL disqualification. If the commercial driver was transporting hazardous materials, this disqualification period increases to three years.
- Subsequent Offenses: Subsequent convictions for commercial DWI can result in longer disqualification periods and may even lead to a lifetime disqualification of your CDL.
- Fines: Commercial DWI convictions can result in significant fines, which can strain your finances. Fines can range from $500 to $2,000 for a first offense. A second offense may result in fines of up to $4,000, and a third offense can lead to fines as high as $10,000.
- Jail Time: While a first offense might not result in a lengthy jail sentence, repeat offenders may face significant jail time. A first offense can carry a jail sentence of up to 180 days, and subsequent offenses could result in a sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
- Employment Consequences: Many employers require commercial drivers to maintain a clean driving record. A commercial DWI conviction can lead to job loss or difficulty finding new employment in the industry.
- Criminal Record: A commercial DWI conviction will also result in a criminal record, which can impact your personal and professional life.
What Defenses Can Be Used Against Commercial DWI Charges?
A skilled San Antonio commercial DWI lawyer can employ various defense strategies to challenge the charges against you. If the traffic stop was unlawful or lacked reasonable suspicion, evidence gathered during the stop may be inadmissible. Additionally, improper testing procedures for breathalyzers or blood tests, or faulty field sobriety tests, could cast doubt on the validity of the results. A lawyer may argue that your performance on sobriety tests was affected by medical conditions, poor weather, or other factors, undermining the case against you.
Other potential defenses include a lack of evidence showing you were intoxicated or the influence of prescription medications that can mimic signs of impairment. Your San Antonio commercial DWI attorney can also work to negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties, which could help you avoid a lengthy CDL suspension or permanent disqualification. These defense strategies aim to protect your livelihood and future opportunities.
Protect Your Business with Expert Commercial DWI Defense
As a business owner, a commercial DWI charge can have severe consequences for both you and your company. It is crucial to understand the specific legal implications and potential penalties associated with a commercial DWI offense.
At The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen, we specialize in providing expert defense for commercial DWI cases in San Antonio, TX. Our experienced Texas attorneys are well-versed in the laws and regulations surrounding commercial DWI charges and can guide you through the legal process.
Why choose us for your commercial DWI defense:
- Extensive knowledge of commercial DWI laws
- Proven track record of successful case outcomes
- Personalized and strategic defense strategies
- Strong negotiation skills with prosecutors
- Thorough investigation and gathering of evidence
- Effective courtroom representation
Don't let a commercial DWI charge jeopardize your business. Contact The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen today to schedule a consultation with an experienced San Antonio commercial DWI lawyer and protect your rights and reputation.
Call The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen today at (210) 405-9730 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our commercial DUI attorney in San Antonio!
Contact Our San Antonio Commercial DWI Attorney Today
In San Antonio, facing a commercial DWI charge can be daunting, but you don't have to navigate the legal process alone. The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen is here to provide expert legal representation and guidance through every step of your case. Our experienced San Antonio commercial DWI lawyers understand these cases' unique challenges and are dedicated to protecting your rights and interests.
Contact The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen today to schedule a consultation with our commercial DWI lawyer in San Antonio! Call now - (210) 405-9730
Five-Star Client Testimonials
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"He knows the law inside and out and uses that to your advantage."Allison M.
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"He will shoot you straight and will handle the case better than anyone in Texas."Laura J.
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"I truly had someone on my side."Jonathan R.
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"The dismissal saved my career and my professional license."Bob V.
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"Mr. Scharmen is the most dedicated attorney for someone who finds themselves in the need of his services."Patricia
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Going the Extra MileWhile we try to avoid the courtroom for clients, I promise to be ready for anything - including a jury trial.
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Extensive DWI ExperienceFor more than 40 years, I have exclusively practiced criminal law and DWI defense.
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Recognized in the CommunityHighly respected among colleagues, I'm double-board certified and the recipient of many awards and accolades.
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