Houston Felony DWI Attorneys
Experienced Defense for Serious Drunk Driving Charges
Facing felony DWI charges in Texas? The consequences extend far beyond fines and jail time. A felony conviction can permanently impact your right to vote, employment opportunities, housing options, and firearm ownership. At Law Offices of Gary Trichter, our Houston felony DWI attorneys have successfully defended hundreds of clients against these life-altering charges.
Understanding Felony DWI in Texas
Texas law classifies four types of intoxication-related offenses as felony DWI:
Third or Subsequent DWI Offense A third DWI conviction becomes a third-degree felony, regardless of when previous offenses occurred.
DWI with Child Passenger Operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a passenger under 15 years old is automatically charged as a state jail felony.
Intoxication Assault Causing serious bodily injury to another person while driving intoxicated results in a third-degree felony charge.
Intoxication Manslaughter If someone dies as a result of your intoxicated driving, you face a second-degree felony with severe penalties.
Strategic Defense Approach
Felony DWI cases involve complex scientific evidence, from blood alcohol testing to field sobriety procedures. Our experienced attorneys understand these technical aspects and know how to challenge:
- Blood and breath test accuracy and procedures
- Field sobriety test administration
- Chain of custody issues
- Constitutional violations during stops and arrests
- Equipment calibration and maintenance records
- What Is A DWI Specialist?
- 1st Offense DWI
- 2nd Offense DWI
- 3rd Offense DWI
- DWI Penalties
- Boating While Intoxicated
- BWI With Child
- DWI with CDL
- Driver License Suspension
- DWI Expunction
- DWI Probation
- DWI with Child
- Field Sobriety Tests
- Flying While Intoxicated
- Intoxication Assault
- Intoxication Manslaughter
- Marijuana DWI
- Pilots with DWI
- Public Intoxication (PI)
- DUI For Minors Only
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“Gary Trichter is hands down the best attorney you will find. If you ever need representation this is the man to hire. He worked hard on the details of my case and was always available to talk.”- James F.
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“Not only did Mr. Trichter guide me through the complex legal proceedings but he also took the time to explain the process to me in a clear and understandable way. His direct answers and understanding ear helped me vastly through my legal process. Thanks to you Gary!”- Seth L.
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“With all the charges against me, which were felonies I was in serious need of a wise exceptional attorney and Gary is just that. He got resisting arrest, illegal carry of a gun and an outstanding warrant for a car accident. All charges were dismissed.”- Erica S.
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“I absolutely recommend, respect, and appreciate Gary and his team.They made the legal process easy, and were extremely helpful throughout the entire DWI ordeal. Gary specializes in Texas DWI cases and has a history of success. More importantly, in my opinion, is his fortitude, persistence, and unapologetic approach to these complacent DAs and Judges that seemed so eager to destroy my livelihood. Call Gary Trichter!! He will shoot you straight, and you will not regret hiring him and his team.”- Kyle O.
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“I was referred to Mr. Trichter by a close family friend. Two of his family member had used him to represent them in their DWI case and were both very pleased with his work. After having Mr. Trichter represent me I can fully understand why. He is an amazing attorney and the best at his job by far. But more then that he is an amazing person that truly care about his client. I will forever be great full for what he has done for me in helping me have my case dismissed. Thank you again Gary!!!”- Luke F.
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“Gary Trichter came recommended by a friend. I was told he was good but he's honestly fantastic! His staff, Cassie and Tracey are equally as awesome and so sweet! Gary is a very knowledgeable, caring, and creative lawyer. Call his office many times to talk about my case and I always feel like I get 100% attention. I highly recommend!”- Jenny S.
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“I highly recommend this Gary Trichter for anyone in need of expert legal representation. Him and his team guided me through every step of the process and fought tirelessly for the best possible outcome. Truly great work.”- Kevin W.
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“Gary and his staff are absolutely the best attorneys you can get. They deeply care for their clients well being and will fight for the best outcome possible. Gary's knowledge of the law and his calm demeanor has put my mind at ease when I had a medical situation that was very scary and misunderstood by an officer. He told me" I will walk you through this" and he did just that! scince then he has became a trusted friend.”- Kevin J.
Penalties and Long-Term Consequences
State Jail Felony Penalties
- Fines: Up to $10,000
- Confinement: 180 days to 2 years in state jail
- License Suspension: 90 days to 2 years
- Annual Surcharge: $1,000-$2,000 for 3 years to maintain driving privileges
Third-Degree Felony Penalties
- Fines: Up to $10,000
- Prison Time: 2-10 years
- Extended license suspension and surcharges
Life-Changing Collateral Consequences
Beyond criminal penalties, felony DWI convictions create lasting barriers to:
- Employment in many fields
- Professional licensing
- Housing and rental applications
- Educational opportunities
- Firearm ownership
- Voting rights
At the forefront of the industry stands our visionary founder, Gary Trichter. He earned the distinction of being the very first Board-Certified DWI Specialist in Texas. This certification is only given by the National College of DUI Defense (NCDD) which is recognized by the American Bar Association.
Gary has spoken at hundreds of seminars on DWI and has taught lawyers, judges, and prosecutors about DWI law. Gary co-authored the textbook Texas Drunk Driving Law and is leading the way with unparalleled expertise in the field.
Why Choose Law Offices of Gary Trichter?
With hundreds of felony DWI cases in our experience, we understand the high stakes involved. Our team provides:
- Immediate case evaluation to identify defense strategies
- Comprehensive investigation of all evidence against you
- Expert witness consultation on technical and scientific issues
- Aggressive negotiation for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- Trial-ready preparation when plea negotiations aren't in your best interest
Take Action Now
Felony DWI charges demand immediate, experienced legal representation. The sooner we begin building your defense, the better we can protect your rights and future.
Contact our Houston office today for a confidential consultation.
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1st Board-Certified DWI Specialist in TexasOur Founder Gary Trichter was the 1st Board-Certified DWI Specialist In The State of Texas to earn the designation of “DWI Specialist”.
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On The Forefront Of ChangeWe don't just push the envelope—we redefine its boundaries. We stand on the other side, shaping trends and crafting bold, effective defense strategies.
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DWI Defense PowerhouseWe combine professional, aggressive criminal defense with caring, understanding legal counsel.