A League City DWI arrest can be overwhelming. From arrest to court, Texas is serious about drunk driving charges—and you need to be as well. Even for a first time offender, the legal process is confusing and frightening.
Knowing what to expect enables you to make the right choices from the beginning. If you find yourself in such a predicament, being represented by a seasoned Texas DWI lawyer such as Attorney Tad A. Nelson can significantly influence the outcome of your case.
What Happens Immediately After a DWI Arrest
Once arrested for DWI, you’ll typically be booked and released to jail for fingerprinting. The next could involve a chemical test (blood or breath) to measure your BAC. Then, you may be released on bail or otherwise remain in custody until a bond hearing.
During this time, it’s extremely important not to say anything to police without the presence of legal counsel. What you say will be used against you—and indeed, likely will be. Rather, reach out to our experienced Texas DWI attorney who has experience with Galveston County’s legal machinery.
Recommendation: Visit our law practice page to learn more about our services.
Your First Court Appearance: The Arraignment
Your arraignment is typically your first court appearance. Here, you’ll be formally informed of the charges against you and asked to enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
Having an attorney present during this stage is more than a formality. Attorney Tad A. Nelson will begin protecting your rights immediately, advocate for bond modifications if needed, and start building a strategy that reflects both your circumstances and the specifics of League City court procedures.
License Suspension and the ALR Hearing
Many drivers are surprised to learn that a DWI arrest in Texas can trigger an automatic suspension of their driver’s license—even before a conviction. This administrative action is handled through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and is separate from your criminal case.
You have only 15 days from the date of arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. Missing this window means automatic license suspension. A skilled Houston drunk driving attorney can help you request the hearing and argue to retain your driving privileges.
Preparing Your Defense: Why Every Detail Matters
Every DWI case is unique. Your attorney will examine the evidence closely—dash or body cam footage, BAC test procedures, the legality of the traffic stop, and whether your constitutional rights were violated. Law enforcement agencies in League City, Galveston, or Houston may each have different arrest protocols, and errors in these procedures can work in your favor.
Local Representation Matters
DWI cases in League City aren’t the same as those in other parts of Texas. That’s why it’s so important to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows the courts, the prosecutors, and the procedures in Galveston County. Attorney Tad A. Nelson brings decades of experience, a deep understanding of local law, and a scientific approach to defending drunk driving cases.
If you’ve been arrested for DWI, don’t wait to get help. Contact us at 979-267-6081 to schedule a consultation today.
