DWI Lawyers for Pilots
Protecting Your Wings & Your Career Nationwide
For a pilot, a DWI arrest is more than a legal headache; it’s an existential threat to your livelihood. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) maintains a "zero tolerance" posture toward alcohol-related offenses, and the window to protect your medical certification and pilot license begins closing the moment you are handcuffed.
At Law Offices of Gary Trichter, we provide a level of defense that general criminal firms cannot match. Attorney Gary Trichter is the first attorney Board Certified in Texas as a DWI Specialist under the American Bar Association (ABA) guidelines. He is an active pilot with thousands of hours of fixed-wing and rotor time. Because of this, we understand the intersection of Texas criminal law and Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). We don't just fight the charge in court; we fight to keep you in the cockpit.
From our offices in Houston and Bandera, TX, we represent pilots nationwide in all FAA-related matters.
Call (979) 472-3858 or complete our online contact form for a complimentary in-person or virtual consultation with a pilot DWI attorney at our Houston office.
“Mr. Trichter Has An Immense Amount Of Knowledge. Including The Details And Specifics Of Dealing With The FAA After An arrest. As a Fellow Aviator And Aviation Enthusiast There Is Connection And Passion That Is Priceless.” - Ross Maverick, Pilot
Gary Trichter Pilot Certifications
From an aviation experience perspective, Gary has multiple Certified Flight Instructor ratings, he is a CFI, CFII (Instrument), and MEI (Multi-Engine) and he provides FAA guidance to pilots charged with DWI, other intoxication offenses, and drivers license suspensions. Gary is presently the proud owner of a Robinson helicopter, an R66, Cessna Golden Eagle 421C, and two Aero Vodochody Albatros L39Cs. In the past he has owned a Beechcraft Bonanza V35, a Beechcraft Baron 55, a Pitts S1T, a Pitts M12, an Espano Aviation Casa Saeta Jet trainer (actually designed by Willie Messerschmitt), a North American T28C (the very first one the U.S. Navy-owned), a Hughes 500 helicopter (the military version and actual Vietnam Veteran, an OH6), and a Cessna 337 (another actual military version and Vietnam Veteran, an O2A). Gary is a Colonel [member] in the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) and formerly was the aircraft coordinator for the B25 Devil Dog. Gary is an aircraft sponsor for both the B25 “Devil Dog” and B25 “Yellow Rose”.
Experienced Pilot and DWI Attorney
Gary is also an aircraft sponsor on not only the B25 Devil Dog but also the B25 Yellow Rose. As an aside, notwithstanding that no pilot wants to jump out of a perfectly good airplane at 10,000 or 11,000 feet, Gary has four parachute jumps to his credit. Gary is a member of the Classic Jets Aircraft Association (CJAA), Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Commemorative Air Force (CAF) and he has extensive aviation experience as an instructor, an aerobatic performer and a participant in formation flying as well as a performer in numerous CAF military-based air shows. Gary’s wealth of knowledge combined with his more than 45+ years of lawyer experience makes him unique in knowing the pitfalls for pilots associated with having been arrested and/or suffering a driver’s license suspension, especially in DWI/DUI/BWI/FWI-related matters.
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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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“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.
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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 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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“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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“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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“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.
Important Links for Pilots
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A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the FAA’s Aerospace Medicine Decision Makers
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Smooth is Fast on Medical Certification
Why Pilots Choose Our Top Gun DWI Specialist
You wouldn't let a student pilot fly a heavy jet in IMC; don't trust your career to a lawyer who doesn't know a transponder from a throttle.
- Peer-recognized excellence: Gary Trichter’s Board Certification is recognized by the American Bar Association and the National College for DUI Defense (NCDD).
- Fellow aviator: As a CFI and MEI, Gary speaks your language. He knows the pressure of the check-ride and the nuances of the FARs.
- Strategic defense: We utilize every tool, from challenging the legality of the stop to fighting the administrative license suspension (ALR), to prevent a "motor vehicle action" from ever hitting your FAA record.
Overview of FAA Consequences
The FAA views a DWI conviction or even a driver’s license suspension as a reflection of a pilot’s judgment and reliability. Under FAR 61.15, the FAA can take administrative action against your pilot certificate for motor vehicle actions.
These consequences can include:
- Emergency revocation. The FAA may immediately revoke all pilot, ground instructor, and medical certificates.
- Suspension. A temporary grounding while the FAA investigates your fitness to fly.
- Denial of future ratings. A DWI on your record can block you from upgrading your certificate or obtaining new ratings.
What do stealth fighters, F117’s, have in common with DWI expunctions?
You can’t see either of them!
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.
The HIMS Program Overview
For commercial and airline pilots, the HIMS program for pilots after DUI is often the only path back to the flight deck after an alcohol-related event.
- HIMS program (Human Intervention Motivation Study): It is an industry-wide occupational program that coordinates between the FAA, airlines, and pilot unions to treat and monitor pilots with substance issues.
- Our role: We guide pilots through the HIMS process to have you meet the stringent testing and compliance requirements necessary to regain your medical and professional standing.
Testing & Compliance
A DWI arrest often triggers a demand from the FAA for a complete "litigation package," including:
- Certified court records and police reports.
- A personal statement regarding your alcohol use.
- Evidence of completion of alcohol education or treatment programs.
Law Offices of Gary Trichter assists in compiling this documentation meticulously, emphasizing your rehabilitation and fitness to serve as a crewmember. We provide intensive legal help with all matters related to FAA drug & alcohol testing and violations.
Call Us to Consult a DWI/DUI Attorney for Pilots
Whether you are a commercial or private pilot, your wings are your life. Don't let one mistake ground you forever.
Request your complimentary confidential consultation with a pilot DWI/DUI attorney for legal guidance today. Call (979) 472-3858 or reach out online to get started.
