What Is Felony DWI Lawyer?
A DWI becomes a felony in Texas under several circumstances: a third or subsequent DWI offense (third-degree felony); a DWI with a child passenger under 15 years old (state jail felony); a DWI that causes serious bodily injury to another person — intoxication assault (third-degree felony); or a DWI that causes the death of another person — intoxication manslaughter (second-degree felony). Felony DWI cases in El Paso are handled in district courts rather than county courts, and the process is far more complex and serious than misdemeanor DWI cases. These charges can arise from accidents on I-10, incidents near Fort Bliss or UTEP, or from repeat offenses throughout El Paso County.
Penalties in Texas — What You Are Facing
The penalties for felony DWI in Texas depend on the specific charge. A third-offense DWI (third-degree felony) carries 2 to 10 years in state prison and fines up to $10,000. DWI with a child passenger (state jail felony) carries 180 days to 2 years in state jail and fines up to $10,000. Intoxication assault (third-degree felony) carries 2 to 10 years in prison. Intoxication manslaughter (second-degree felony) carries 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. All felony DWI convictions result in permanent loss of voting rights and the right to possess firearms, in addition to the prison sentence. The consequences are life-altering, and you need the most experienced defense attorney available.
Don't face Felony DWI Lawyer charges alone in El Paso.
Attorney Aaronson has 45+ years defending El Paso residents. Free consultation — no obligation.
The Legal Process in El Paso, Texas
Felony DWI cases in El Paso are handled in the 34th, 41st, 65th, 120th, 168th, 171st, 205th, 210th, 243rd, 327th, 346th, 383rd, or 384th District Courts. The process begins with a grand jury indictment, followed by arraignment, extensive pre-trial hearings, discovery, and potentially a jury trial. The prosecution will present evidence of prior convictions, chemical test results, witness testimony, accident reconstruction (in intoxication assault/manslaughter cases), and any other aggravating factors. Pre-trial motions are critical — motions to suppress evidence, challenges to prior convictions, and other procedural challenges can significantly affect the outcome.
Defense Strategies That Work in El Paso Courts
Defending a felony DWI requires a comprehensive, aggressive strategy. Attorney Aaronson will challenge: the validity of prior convictions used to enhance the charge; the legality of the traffic stop and arrest; the accuracy of chemical tests (breathalyzer or blood); the chain of custody of blood samples; the qualifications and methodology of any expert witnesses; and the causation element in intoxication assault/manslaughter cases (was your intoxication actually the cause of the accident?). He also explores alternative sentencing options, including deferred adjudication (where available), treatment programs, and other alternatives to prison.
Why Choose Aaronson Law Firm for Felony DWI Lawyer in El Paso
Attorney Aaronson has successfully defended felony DWI cases in El Paso for decades. He understands the complexity of these cases and the severe consequences his clients face. His extensive trial experience, deep knowledge of DWI law, and familiarity with El Paso's district courts and prosecutors give his clients the best possible chance of a favorable outcome. He has helped clients throughout El Paso — including Sunset Heights, Kern Place, the Eastside, Westside, and Northeast El Paso — as well as Horizon City, Socorro, Canutillo, and Sunland Park.
Frequently Asked Questions About Felony DWI Lawyer in El Paso
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Felony DWI charges can put you in prison for years.
Don't face this alone. Call Aaronson Law Firm immediately at (915) 533-0110. We offer free, confidential consultations and will fight aggressively to protect your freedom.
Available 24/7 for urgent matters · 45+ years defending El Paso residents