What happens after a DWI arrest in Texas?Administrative License Revocation:To preserve your right to drive in Texas, you must request a hearing within 15 days of when you were served with a Notice of Suspension(usually the date of arrest). If you timely requested a hearing to contest your license suspension, you will be able to continue driving until the hearing. If you lose at the hearing, you can not drive after the hearing. Crucial defenses can be developed at the hearing. If your license is suspended at the hearing, you may be able to secure an occupational license to drive.Arraignment:This is your initial court date. It will either be noted on your bond release or you will be notified by mail when to appear(usually about 30 to 60 days after arrest). This hearing is primarily for advisement of rights. If you have an attorney, he will advise you.Pre_trial Conference:Your attorney will discuss your case with the District Attorney and negotiate the best possible plea bargain. This conference will happen about 6 weeks after arraignment. This is usually after the driver's license hearing (ALR). The date is set by the Court and your attorney on his calendar.Suppression Hearing:The Court may suppress some or all of the evidence against you if your constitutional rights have been violated. Your attorney will file motions to suppress. It occurs anywhere 6 weeks to 3 months after the pre_trial conference.Trial:You may either request a bench trial wherein the court hears the case. If the case is a misdemeanor, the trial will be to a jury of six. If the case is a felony, the jury will be to a jury of twelve.Sentencing:The Court (that is, the judge) or jury imposes a sentence after conviction at trial. If you plea bargain or try your case before a judge, the Court imposes punishment. Typical DWI sentences include alcohol education classes, community service, fines, court costs and in some cases jail time. |