HIMS Program for Pilots After DUI Lawyers

Legal Representation for Pilots Nationwide

For a professional pilot, a diagnosis or finding of substance abuse was once a career-ending event. Today, the HIMS Program provides a proven, highly structured pathway for pilots to receive treatment, maintain long-term sobriety, and, most importantly, regain their FAA medical certification.

At Law Offices of Gary Trichter, we understand that the HIMS process is daunting, expensive, and legally complex. You aren't just fighting a DWI or DUI, but more so, you are navigating through an FAA minefield that requires you to prove your sobriety and fitness to fly.

As a Texas Board-Certified DWI Specialist under the (ABA) guidelines and a fellow multi-thousand-hour fixed-wing and rotor pilot (CFI, CFII, MEI), Gary Trichter provides the specialized legal oversight necessary to navigate this hurdle of federal regulations (FARS), aero-medical examiners (AMEs), and company officials. We can provide legal defenses and guidelines aligned with your recovery goals to get you into and keep you in the cockpit.

Get assistance in a complimentary in-person or virtual consultation with an HIMS program for pilots attorney at our Houston office by contacting us online or at (979) 472-3858.

Gary Trichter's professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to my case were exceptional.
“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.
Mr. Trichter seems to feel comfortable thinking outside the box and it pays off!
“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.
Mr. Trichter ensured that I was informed at every step, which greatly reduced my anxiety and allowed me to make informed decisions.
“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.
I highly recommend Gary Trichter to represent you or your loved one.
“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.
Gary is one of only 4 DWI specialist in the state and his reputation is unsurpassed.
“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.
Ultimately, all charges were dropped and I was able to get on with my life.
“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.
Gary exceeded my expectations, and was able to get my charges completely DISMISSED!
“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.
I can not express the amount of gratitude I have for Mr. Trichter.
“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.

How Our Legal Oversight Assists You in the HIMS Program

The HIMS program is a safety program, not a legal defense. However, every statement you make and every document you submit can have legal consequences.

Law Offices of Gary Trichter assists by:

Managing documentation. We verify that your treatment records and personal statements meet FAA standards to avoid unnecessary delays.
Protecting your rights. We safeguard your legal standing by managing your HIMS participation so it does not inadvertently compromise your defense in a pending criminal DWI or DUI case.
Advocating for reinstatement. If you encounter a hiccup or a false positive in the monitoring process, we provide the aggressive advocacy needed to keep your special issuance from being revoked.

HIMS Program Overview

HIMS is an occupational substance abuse program specific to the aviation industry. It coordinates the identification, treatment, and return-to-work process for pilots.

The team approach: HIMS is a tripartite effort involving the FAA, the Pilots’ Union (ALPA/APA), and Airline Management.
The goal: To move a pilot from "coerced sobriety" to "chosen abstinence," protecting the safety of the national airspace while preserving the career of a skilled aviator.
Special issuance: Successful completion of the initial HIMS phases allows a pilot to fly under a special issuance medical certificate, which is subject to strict ongoing monitoring.
Protecting your rights: We work to keep your HIMS participation from inadvertently jeopardizing your defense in a pending criminal DWI or DUI case, as well as to keep your special issuance from being revoked.

Airline Participation & Variations

While the FAA standardizes the HIMS model, how it is implemented varies significantly by employer.

Major carriers: Most legacy and major airlines (Delta, United, American, Southwest, etc.) have robust, internal HIMS programs with dedicated committee chairs and peer-pilot networks.
Regional and cargo carriers: Many regional airlines participate in HIMS through their union (ALPA) or third-party employee assistance programs.
General aviation and corporate: Pilots not affiliated with a major airline can still participate in a "HIMS-style" program by establishing a private monitoring team led by a HIMS-trained Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

Creating & Maintaining Your Program

If you are required to enter HIMS, often following a second DWI or DUI or a first-time high-BAC (blood alcohol concentration) event, our firm helps you quarterback the construction of your recovery team.

Selection of an HIMS AME: You must establish a relationship with a specialized AME who has completed FAA HIMS training. They act as the primary liaison with the FAA.
Psychiatric and neuropsychological evaluations: The FAA requires specific evaluations from HIMS-qualified clinicians to establish a baseline of cognitive and psychological health.
The monitoring contract: You will sign a formal agreement outlining your commitment to total abstinence, attendance at support groups (like Birds of a Feather or AA), and regular check-ins.

Compliance Monitoring: The "Step-Down" Plan

The FAA's Step-Down Plan requires a long-term commitment to total abstinence, verified by rigorous monitoring. Unlike a standard breathalyzer, which only detects alcohol for a few hours, the HIMS program uses advanced PEth (phosphatidylethanol) testing.

What is a PEth test? It is a highly accurate blood test that detects a specific biomarker formed only after alcohol is consumed. Because this marker stays in your red blood cells for up to four weeks, it provides the FAA with a long-term window into your behavior, making it impossible to hide even a single drinking episode.

We work to give you a complete understanding of these testing protocols so that you can remain in full compliance with:

Random testing - Navigating the frequency and requirements of unannounced blood and urine screenings.
The Step-Down schedule - Moving from monthly check-ins to quarterly or bi-annual reports over a five to seven-year period.
Peer and supervisor reports - Coordinating the monthly documentation from your fellow pilots and company supervisors that is required to maintain your special issuance.

Original Board-Certified DWI Specialist Gary Trichter Earned the Distinction of Being The 1st Board-Certified DWI Specialist in Texas

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.

LET'S TALK ABOUT YOUR CASE

Protecting Your Legal Interests

We confirm that your participation in the HIMS program is managed strategically so as not to inadvertently jeopardize your defense in a pending criminal DWI or DUI case. By providing legal oversight for your recovery process, our firm works relentlessly to safeguard both your freedom and your professional standing.

Learn more about how we can help with your case in a complimentary consultation with an attorney for the HIMS program for pilots after a DUI. Call (979) 472-3858 or reach us online at our Houston office today.

1st Board-Certified DWI Specialist in Texas
Our 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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We 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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