The Impact of a DWI on Your Travel Plans

 Posted on September 09, 2019 in Uncategorized

It is common knowledge that a driving while intoxicated (DWI) conviction could result in steep fines, jail time, and a suspended driver's license. But did you know it can also have a serious impact on your ability to travel? These travel limitations can make it difficult to leave the country or hop on a flight. In some cases, you could need permission just to leave the counties surrounding your home.

Understanding all of the consequences of a DWI conviction is important. When you are considering your legal options, you must weigh the risks of the trial with the potential of an acquittal. The good news is that many DWI cases are defensible. To discuss your case with an experienced Houston DWI lawyer, contact the Murphy & McKinney Law Firm, P.C. To get an idea of how a DWI conviction could make traveling more challenging, read on.

DWI and its Impact on Travel

The consequences of a DWI conviction can impact all manners of travel, from leaving the country to driving across county lines.

National and International Flights

Flying is often a hassle in the best of times. Following a DWI conviction, you could find airline travel to be even more challenging – and at times, impossible. For starters, a conviction can cost you the perks of using TSA Precheck and Global Entry. These programs cut the hassle of going through security and customs, drastically reducing the amount of time you need to spend at the airport. A DWI conviction could result in your removal from TSA Precheck or Global Entry.

Depending on your destination, a DWI could also cancel your trip entirely. For example, Canada could refuse you entry even for a misdemeanor DWI conviction. If you are convicted of a felony DWI, some countries like Japan could bar you permanently.

In-state Travel

Out-of-state travel isn't the only transportation that could be impacted by a DWI conviction. If you are placed on probation or parole, you could face a variety of conditions. Should you violate those conditions, the judge could revoke your probation and parole, sending you to jail.

While it varies from one county to another, some courts will add travel restrictions as a condition to probation or parole. These conditions could potentially apply when you are out on bond as well. A condition could require you to stay in your home county or within surrounding counties. Your ability to travel will depend on the specific conditions you face. In these situations, you could receive approval from the court to travel, but that can take time and effort to accomplish.

A DWI Defense Attorney that will Protect your Rights

While these consequences can be frustrating, most are avoidable if you are never convicted of a DWI. While fighting back against a DWI on your own can be challenging, with the right attorney an acquittal could be possible. To learn more about building a winning DWI defense, schedule your no cost, no obligation consultation with the Murphy & McKinney Law Firm, P.C. today.