Criminal Charges Can Mean Serious Consequences, Even For First-Time Offenders

Sometimes, in the blink of an eye, an ill-informed or impulsive decision can change the course of your or someone else’s life. Criminal charges are serious, but they’re not always permanently life-altering. In many cases, the consequences of a poor choice can be negotiated. Because criminal cases are handled differently depending on the state you’re in, it’s advisable to find an attorney to represent you who is well-versed in state-specific criminal law.

Youthful Mistakes Shouldn’t Follow You For Life

Dean Watts, Attorney at Law, located in Nacogdoches, has over two decades of representing people embroiled in legal trouble, whether it’s over a misdemeanor offense or felony charges. Our attorney’s focus is on young adult clients who may have made a mistake and are in search of a way to lessen or eliminate charges and penalties. There are many options for people to seek forgiveness in the eyes of the law, and our experienced attorneys can help you find the best options for your personal situation. Attorney Dean Watts can also discuss the possibility of clearing your record of past charges.

Understand Laws Governing Driving While Intoxicated And Drug Offenses

Criminal charges can stem from a wide variety of offenses, and some are more severe than others. Common offenses attorney Watts’ young adult clients commit include driving while intoxicated (DWI) and drug violations.

The laws surrounding DWI and drug charges have their own sets of consequences. In building a case, it’s useful to be aware of the scope of charges and what the penalties may include for either of these offenses:

DWI
In Texas, a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 is considered legally intoxicated and may be charged with DWI. Driving while impaired by drugs or lesser amounts of alcohol can also result in charges, as can an open container of alcohol. On your first offense, the penalties can be as severe as 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000 and losing your license for up to a year, with steep fines due in order to renew it in subsequent years.

Drug offenses
Texas law has fairly unforgiving controlled substance laws. Drugs are classified into categories that carry different levels of penalties, depending on their acceptable medical use and potential for abuse. Furthermore, factors like whether you’re charged with intent to distribute or simply in possession of a substance play a role in determining consequences. The law distinguishing these charges can grow complicated, depending on your circumstances.

Because there is sometimes ambiguity in the judgment passed by law enforcement at the scene of an arrest, or simply because the law carries many complicated provisions that are difficult for the average person to unpack, it’s important to retain a lawyer as soon as possible following criminal charges of any kind.

FAQ: Texas Criminal Defense

Below are some of the questions Attorney Dean Watts sees on a regular basis:

After a first offense, are there options to avoid jail time?

It depends on the specific charge. For instance, a DWI charge in Texas triggers a mandatory jail sentence of three days, even for a first offense.

An experienced attorney can evaluate your case and explain which alternatives may be available under Texas law. Some nonviolent first‑time drug offenses may qualify for drug court, which focuses on treatment and supervision rather than punishment. Successful completion can help you avoid jail time and reduce the long‑term impact of the charge.

For other offenses, fines, probation or community service may be possible in lieu of incarceration depending on the circumstances. In cases where the prosecution offers a plea deal, you may be able to accept reduced charges in exchange for a guilty plea. Every situation is different, and understanding your options is essential when protecting your future.

What should I do immediately after a Texas arrest?

If you are arrested in Texas, remember that you have the right to remain silent and to speak with an attorney. Do not make any statements that could be used against you. Get in touch with your legal team as soon as possible.

The key to your defense is not to protest at the time of arrest but to work with your lawyer to build a defense case. Examples to consider include proving your innocence, demonstrating a lack of evidence and highlighting procedural mistakes made by the police.

How does Texas differentiate between a misdemeanor and a felony?

A misdemeanor is generally a less serious crime. Sentences may include probation, fines or time spent in the county jail. In contrast, a felony is a more serious charge that could lead to incarceration in state prison. A Texas prison term could range from a year to life, depending on the specific charge.

Texas misdemeanors often fit into three classes:

• Class A, which are the most serious charges, such as driving while intoxicated (DWI) or assault resulting in injury.
• Class B, which could lead to up to 180 days in jail, such as assault without injury or public intoxication.
• Class C, which are the least serious and may not lead to incarceration, such as minor in possession or disorderly conduct charges.

Felonies often include significant charges such as burglary, drug possession, drug distribution or trafficking, aggravated assault and murder. In all cases, a strategic defense can help prevent a worst-case outcome.

Call Today

Don’t wait to get in touch with Dean Watts, Attorney at Law. Our attorney’s open-door policy welcomes walk-ins. You can also call him at (936) 559-9288 or get in touch online.