What Happens When a Police Officer is Arrested for DWI?

 Posted on April 04, 2023 in DUI/DWI

Facing a DWI can be a scary situation because it's hard to know what will happen next and the consequences you could face. But for a police officer or other first responders, an arrest for a DWI could end a career. That's what a Dallas police officer recently discovered. In February, the Dallas police arrested an off-duty Dallas police officer on suspicion of DWI. She's now on administrative leave pending an internal affairs investigation.The consequences of a DWI can be even more serious when your job is on the line. That's why it's essential you remember that you are innocent until proven guilty. You need an expert in DWI law to ensure the best possible chance of successfully resolving your case. Attorney Doug Murphy is an expert in DWI defense and can help you. Call the Murphy & McKinney Law Firm, P.C. at 713-229-8333">713-229-8333 or contact them online to schedule your consultation.

Consequences of a DWI Conviction

Police officers and other first responders aren't supposed to receive special treatment when arrested, so you'll likely face the same process and consequences as anyone else arrested for a DWI. But you may also face consequences to your career due to your arrest.

1. Jail Time and Fines

Your first DWI in Texas is a Class B misdemeanor. A conviction is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $3,000 fine. However, you could also face a license suspension and a mandatory administrative fine of $3,000. If there are aggravated circumstances to your arrest, such as having a child in the car or causing a serious injury, you could face felony DWI charges.

2. Career Consequences

If arrested for a DWI, your police department may launch an internal affairs investigation and place you on administrative leave until your case is resolved. If convicted of DWI, you could lose your job. A past conviction for a DWI may not disqualify you from all law enforcement positions, but multiple convictions or a felony conviction could. With a felony conviction, you could also lose your ability to carry a firearm, precluding you from working in most law enforcement positions.

You Need an Expert in Texas DWI and Criminal Defense

If you're facing DWI charges as a police officer or other first responder, the consequences of a conviction can be life-altering. That's why you need an expert in DWI Defense by your side. Attorney Doug Murphy is an expert in both Criminal Defense law and DWI Defense and is one of only two attorneys in Texas Board Certified in these specialties.

Doug was also recently named a "Lawyer of the Year" for Houston DWI Defense for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America from U.S. News and World Report. Doug and the skilled team at the Murphy & McKinney Law Firm, P.C. have been helping Texans arrested for DWI for decades, and they can help you. Find out why the Houston press calls Doug "the drinking driver's best friend." Call the Murphy & McKinney Law Firm, P.C. at 713-229-8333">713-229-8333 or contact them online to schedule a consultation.