Are you or a loved one facing DWI charges? If you’re considering a general criminal attorney, you might want to rethink that decision. Only one of the best DWI lawyers in Houston will give you the best shot at a favorable outcome.
Let’s get something out of the way—most people don’t know a thing about the law and how it actually works. Whether they’re telling you that a State Trooper can’t ticket you without wearing a hat (they can) or that their brother, the tax lawyer, can help you beat your DWI (they can’t), the average person usually doesn’t know as much about the law as they think they do.
One very important thing that many people don’t recognize is the importance of specialty attorneys. When you’re accused of DWI, you can’t just hire any decent attorney and expect good results. To have a real chance at beating your DWI charges in Houston, you need an experienced DWI lawyer to fight your case. And if you care about your freedom, you need the best DWI lawyer in Houston you can find.
How a DWI Lawyer is Different From Other Lawyers
If you’ve been charged with a DWI or DUI, hiring an actual DWI attorney can greatly increase your chances of beating these charges. The same way different doctors treat different illnesses, most lawyers have an area of practice or a subject that they specialize in.
While other lawyers may understand the basics, only an outstanding DWI lawyer understands the science and the strategies that actually win DWI/DUI cases. Where a general criminal attorney or a non-criminal attorney would typically advise a plea deal, a Houston DWI attorney can effectively fight a DWI charge in the court of law. You may wonder, what can a DWI lawyer do for you? It’s an important question, but first, let’s start with the “why.”
Why You Should Hire a DWI Lawyer
DWI is a unique and oftentimes frightening charge to face. Because DWI charges are largely based on scientific evidence, many people mistake a DWI for automatic guilt. Nothing could be further from the truth. DWI charges can be fought and can be won, but this would not be possible without true expertise.
That same “scientific” evidence that causes people to assume guilt is exactly what strong DWI lawyers use to win cases. Despite what prosecutors want you to believe, the science behind intoxication analysis is extremely flawed, especially breath analysis.
The results of field sobriety tests, Breathalyzer tests and/or blood draws can all be highly skewed, and the only way to fight them is to understand them. While some attorneys may not fully understand a blood test vs. a breathalyzer, experienced DWI lawyers understand the subtleties and technical details of toxicology. Experienced DWI attorneys will use that knowledge to undermine the prosecution. While just about any attorney can tell you to plea your way into a reduced sentence, only a DWI lawyer can truly fight your charges.
How to Pick a DWI Lawyer
On the flip side, just because someone is a DWI lawyer doesn’t mean that they’re the right person to fight your case. Picking a cheap DWI lawyer in Houston could result in poor outcomes similar to a generalist lawyer. Here are some easy things to look for when selecting a DWI lawyer in Houston.
- A Strong Track Record
While an attorney may not feel comfortable discussing specifics, they can and should be able to answer basic questions about their track record. So what’s the takeaway? Don’t be afraid to ask. Whether your case is big or small, you want a DWI lawyer who could handle it either way. Look for an attorney who has beaten a range of cases—from big DWI charges like intoxication manslaughter or felony DWI to smaller cases—when making your selection. - A Strong Local Presence
It’s a given that the best DWI lawyers in Houston will have a strong knowledge of the law. You also want an attorney who focuses on the Houston area, instead of attorneys who split time between cities. A local-focused attorney will be most familiar with the courts, judges, prosecutors and their approach to DWI penalties. When picking a DWI attorney, look for an attorney who understands the full cycle of fighting DWI charges, including DWI probation violation. - A Scientific Background
Fighting DWI charges requires a deep knowledge of both the laws and scientific factors at play in your case. The best way to ensure you hire a lawyer who really knows their stuff is to look for a lawyer scientist. Lawyer scientists are specially recognized by the American Chemical Society for their scientific knowledge and must continue their education in order to maintain their status. - A Strong AVVO Rating
In any area of practice, truly good lawyers are well-regarded by both their clients and their peers. One of the best ways to determine this is to check an attorney’s AVVO score. Based on both their professional reputation and client reviews, a high AVVO score is a strong indicator of a quality attorney.
Hire Houston’s Best DWI Lawyer, Mark Thiessen
Your ideal DWI lawyer should check all of the boxes listed above. Mark Thiessen does that and more. Handling everything from intoxication manslaughter to exploring how to get a DWI off your record, AVVO Super Lawyer Mark Thiessen and his team at Thiessen Law Firm possess both the knowledge and experience necessary to win your case. Don’t risk your future on an unknown or unspecialized attorney—contact Thiessen Law Firm today to schedule your free consultation!
Related DWI Resources in Houston
- How to Beat a DWI
- DWI Test: About the Blood Draw
- Misdemeanor DWI and Employment
- The New Second Chance Law in Texas
- The Problem With Sobriety Tests for Alcohol
