Felony & Repeat DWI in San Antonio, TX
When a DWI becomes a felony in San Antonio
Not all DWI charges carry the same exposure. Prior convictions and certain aggravating facts can turn a misdemeanor into a felony with years of potential prison time, and these are the cases where experienced representation matters most. If you are facing a repeat or felony DWI in Bexar County, understanding exactly what you are charged with is the first step toward making sound decisions.
San Antonio DWI Defense is an independent local guide. We are not a law firm and we do not provide legal services or representation. We help people arrested in the San Antonio and Bexar County area understand the process and connect with a verified, licensed local DWI defense attorney for a free, confidential case review.
Situations that raise the stakes
- Third or subsequent DWI. A third DWI in Texas can be charged as a felony, with a substantially higher punishment range than a first or second offense.
- DWI with a child passenger. Driving while intoxicated with a child in the vehicle is a felony charge in Texas, separate from the driver's BAC.
- Intoxication assault or manslaughter. If someone is seriously injured or killed, the charge is a felony from the outset and is treated very seriously.
- High BAC or prior history. Aggravating facts can elevate the charge level and the consequences.
Why experience matters most here
Felony DWI cases are complex, the potential consequences are severe, and the difference an attorney's experience makes is greatest at this level. No ethical attorney can promise an outcome, but a seasoned defense lawyer can scrutinize the stop, the testing, the chain of custody and the prosecution's proof, and explain your realistic options clearly.
Comparing experienced felony DWI attorneys
For a repeat or felony charge, prioritize a licensed Texas attorney with substantial felony DWI experience in Bexar County. Whatever the charge, the ALR license deadline still applies, so act promptly while you compare verified local attorneys.
Compare verified San Antonio DWI attorneys
Tell us a little about your situation, the charge, whether it is a first offense, and how recently you were arrested, and we will help you compare verified, licensed San Antonio-area DWI defense attorneys and request a free, confidential case review. There is no obligation, most DWI defense attorneys offer a free initial consultation, and acting promptly matters because the deadline to request an ALR license hearing is short.
This page is general legal information, not legal advice, and it does not create an attorney-client relationship. DWI and DUI laws are complex and every case turns on its own facts. Deadlines (including the deadline to request an ALR license hearing) are short and unforgiving. Only a licensed Texas criminal-defense attorney can advise you on your specific situation. If you have been arrested, speak with a qualified attorney promptly.
Frequently asked questions
No. San Antonio DWI Defense is an independent local guide. We help people arrested for DWI or DUI in the San Antonio area understand their situation and connect with a verified local criminal-defense attorney for a free case review. We are not a law firm, we do not represent you, and nothing here is legal advice.
In Texas they are separate charges. DWI (Driving While Intoxicated, Penal Code 49.04) is the charge for drivers 21 and over. DUI (Alcoholic Beverage Code 106.041) is a separate under-21 minor charge that applies to any detectable amount of alcohol. Because the offenses, penalties and defenses differ, it matters which one you are facing — a licensed Texas attorney can confirm your specific charge.
An arrest triggers two separate tracks: the criminal case in court and an Administrative License Revocation (ALR), a civil DPS action to suspend your license. You generally have a hard deadline — commonly cited as 15 days from the notice of suspension — to request an ALR hearing, or the suspension takes effect automatically. Because that deadline is short and easy to miss, many people speak with a defense attorney promptly. We can help you compare local attorneys, but only a licensed Texas attorney can advise on your specific deadline.
It depends on the charge (first offense, repeat, felony), whether the case goes to trial, and the attorney. DWI defense commonly runs into the thousands of dollars in attorney fees, and many attorneys offer a free initial case review. We do not quote a fee — a local attorney gives you an exact estimate after reviewing your case.
Favor an attorney licensed in Texas with real DWI / criminal-defense experience and familiarity with the Bexar County courts and DPS process. Insist on a clear explanation of both the criminal case and the ALR license track, and be cautious of anyone who guarantees a result — no honest attorney can promise an outcome. Tell us your area and situation and we help you compare verified local attorneys.
No. No honest attorney guarantees a result, and Texas attorney-advertising rules bar unfounded result claims. Every case is different. A reputable attorney explains the process, the realistic range of outcomes and the risks — not a promised result. This guide provides general information only and is not legal advice.
