Facing a felony DWI charge in Austin is a serious and often life‑changing experience. Unlike a first‑offense misdemeanor DWI, a felony charge carries the possibility of significant prison time, steep fines, the loss of driving privileges, and long‑term consequences for employment, housing, and future opportunities. If you or a loved one is dealing with a felony DWI arrest, the attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC are here to help you understand the law, review your options, and protect your rights every step of the way.
Gordon Law PLLC is located at 600 W. 28th Street, Suite #106A Austin, Texas 78705, and offers free consultations and flexible payment plans. If you are facing a felony DWI charge anywhere in Austin or the surrounding areas, call 512‑678‑9333 (WEED) to speak with an attorney right away.
A DWI becomes a felony in Texas under several circumstances. The most common felony DWI charges include:
If a person has two prior DWI convictions, a new arrest is typically charged as a third‑degree felony, punishable by:
Driving while intoxicated with a child under 15 in the vehicle is a state jail felony, even if it is a first offense. Penalties can include:
If a DWI results in serious bodily injury to another person—whether a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian—it may be charged as intoxication assault. Penalties may be increased further if the injured person is a peace officer, firefighter, EMT, or judge.
If a DWI accident results in death, the charge becomes intoxication manslaughter, carrying:
Each of these felony charges carries consequences far beyond a typical misdemeanor case, making experienced legal representation essential.
The prosecution typically must prove two key elements:
In felony cases involving accidents or injuries, the State must also prove the connection between intoxication and the injury or death, which is often the focus of the defense strategy.
Felony DWI arrests often come from:
Austin Police Department, DPS troopers, and local sheriff’s offices often work closely with prosecutors on felony DWI cases, and blood test evidence is common. These tests, however, are far from infallible.
The attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC closely examine every part of the case to identify defenses. Common areas of challenge include:
If officers lacked reasonable suspicion to stop you, or probable cause to detain you, key evidence may be suppressed.
Issues that may arise include:
These issues are especially critical in felony cases, where the stakes are highest.
Officers must follow strict protocols when administering roadside tests. Deviation from standardized procedures can affect their reliability.
In intoxication assault or manslaughter cases, the State must prove the intoxication caused the crash or injury. Defense experts may challenge the State’s reconstruction or propose alternative explanations.
In accident cases, injuries, shock, or confusion may be mistaken for signs of intoxication.
Every felony DWI case is unique. A thorough investigation often uncovers weaknesses that can lead to reduced charges, dismissals, or favorable negotiations.
While felony charges carry significant penalties, the outcome depends heavily on the specific facts and the strength of the State’s evidence. Possible resolutions include:
The attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC pursue every available defense to reach the best possible outcome.
A felony DWI accusation can affect your freedom, your family, and your future. The attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC provide:
When the stakes are this high, you need a defense team committed to protecting your rights and your future.
If you or a loved one has been charged with a felony DWI in Austin or the surrounding areas, contact:
Gordon Law PLLC
600 W. 28th Street, Suite #106A
Austin, Texas 78705
Phone: 512‑678‑9333 (WEED)
Free consultations and flexible payment plans are available.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney–client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, contact a qualified attorney.
Get the legal help you deserve from a team that listens, prepares, and fights for you. At Gordon Law PLLC, we take your case seriously and provide guidance tailored to your situation. Let us help you protect your future with trusted, client-focused representation.
