Your Freedom Depends on Who You Call First.
A DWI charge in Bexar County can cost you your license, your job, and years of your life. Attorney Genaro R. Cortez fights to protect your rights — from the traffic stop to the courtroom.
A DWI Conviction in Texas
Changes Everything
Texas has some of the harshest DWI penalties in the country. Before you assume the breath test means you’re guilty, understand what’s actually at risk — and why the right attorney makes all the difference.
Criminal Record & Conviction
Even a first-time DWI can result in a permanent criminal record that shows up on background checks, affecting employment, housing, professional licenses, and more for the rest of your life.
License Suspension
Texas can suspend your driver’s license for up to two years. If your job depends on driving, this alone can cost you your livelihood. We fight suspension at the ALR hearing — but only if you act within 15 days.
Fines & Surcharges
Fines, court costs, and Texas DPS surcharges can stack up to $10,000 or more. You may also face mandatory ignition interlock device installation and alcohol education programs.
Jail Time
A first-offense DWI carries up to 180 days in jail. Aggravating factors — a BAC over .15, a child passenger, or an accident — dramatically increase exposure to incarceration and felony charges.
Every Type of DWI & Intoxication Offense
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First-Time DWI (Class B Misdemeanor)
Facing your first DWI doesn’t mean a conviction is inevitable. We challenge every step from the traffic stop to the breath test results.
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DWI with BAC .08 or Higher (Blood & Breath)
Field sobriety tests and breathalyzers can be inaccurate. Blood draw results can be challenged based on collection, storage, and lab procedures.
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DWI with BAC of .15 or Higher
A BAC of .15+ escalates a first DWI to a Class A misdemeanor with increased fines and jail exposure. We fight to reduce charges and protect your future.
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DUI (Driving Under the Influence) — Minors
Texas applies a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21. Even any detectable alcohol can result in DUI charges. Early defense is critical for young drivers.
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Second & Third DWI Offenses
Repeat DWI charges escalate to Class A misdemeanors and felonies with mandatory jail minimums. Aggressive defense is essential to avoid the harshest outcomes.
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DWI with a Child Passenger
Having a passenger under 15 in the vehicle elevates a DWI to a state jail felony, carrying serious consequences including potential loss of parental rights.
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Intoxication Assault & Intoxication Manslaughter
These are felony offenses with mandatory prison time. If you or a loved one face these charges, retaining experienced counsel immediately is critical.
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ALR Hearings & Occupational Driver’s License
We represent clients at Administrative License Revocation hearings and help obtain an occupational (essential needs) license so you can keep driving to work.
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DWI Deferred Adjudication
In limited circumstances, deferred adjudication may be available. We evaluate whether this is the right strategy for your specific situation and goals.
Don’t Wait. Get Help Today.
The first 72 hours after a DWI arrest are critical. Evidence is still fresh, and you have just 15 days to protect your driver’s license. Attorney Cortez is ready to help.
Confidential · No obligation · Available 24/7 for emergencies
Texas DWI Penalties at a Glance
Understanding what you’re up against is the first step to fighting back. These are the statutory penalties — a skilled attorney may be able to reduce or avoid them entirely.
| Offense | Classification | Jail / Prison | Fine (Max) | License Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st DWI (BAC < .15) | Class B Misd. | 72 hrs – 180 days | $2,000 | 90 days – 1 year |
| 1st DWI (BAC .15+) | Class A Misd. | Up to 1 year | $4,000 | 90 days – 1 year |
| 2nd DWI | Class A Misd. | 30 days – 1 year | $4,000 | 180 days – 2 years |
| 3rd DWI | 3rd Degree Felony | 2 – 10 years | $10,000 | 180 days – 2 years |
| DWI w/ Child Passenger | State Jail Felony | 180 days – 2 years | $10,000 | 180 days – 2 years |
| Intoxication Assault | 3rd Degree Felony | 2 – 10 years | $10,000 | 90 days – 1 year |
| Intoxication Manslaughter | 2nd Degree Felony | 2 – 20 years | $10,000 | 180 days – 2 years |
When your future is on the line, you need an attorney who knows the Bexar County courts, understands the science behind DWI prosecutions, and will fight relentlessly on your behalf. Attorney Genaro R. Cortez has dedicated his practice to defending San Antonians facing serious criminal charges — and he knows how to challenge the state’s case at every turn.
From questioning the legality of a traffic stop, to challenging field sobriety test procedures, to scrutinizing the maintenance records of breathalyzer equipment and the integrity of blood draw evidence — no stone is left unturned. When prosecutors have the resources of the state, you deserve an attorney who matches their intensity.
Your Defense, Step by Step
We review your arrest, the evidence, and your options — at no cost and with complete confidentiality. You’ll leave with a clear picture of where you stand.
We obtain dashcam footage, body cam video, breathalyzer calibration records, blood lab reports, and police reports — looking for every possible challenge.
Every case is different. We build a strategy tailored to your facts — whether that means motions to suppress, negotiating with prosecutors, or taking your case to trial.
From the ALR hearing to protect your license, to pre-trial hearings, to trial — we stand beside you at every step and fight for the best possible outcome.
DWI Defense FAQ
Can I beat a DWI if I failed a breath test? +
Yes. Breathalyzer results are not infallible. Devices must be properly calibrated and maintained, and the test must be administered correctly. Certain medical conditions, diet, and mouth alcohol can cause false readings. We examine the full record of the device used in your case.
What happens if I refused a breath or blood test? +
Refusal triggers an automatic driver’s license suspension and can be used against you at trial. However, a refusal also means less direct evidence for the state. We examine whether law enforcement followed proper procedures and whether any warrant was properly obtained for a blood draw.
What is an ALR hearing and why does it matter? +
The Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing is a civil proceeding — separate from your criminal case — where we fight to keep your driver’s license. You have only 15 days from your arrest to request this hearing. Missing it means automatic suspension. Winning it also gives us early discovery of the state’s evidence.
Can I get a DWI expunged from my record in Texas? +
If your DWI case is dismissed or you are acquitted, you may be eligible for expunction. Texas law currently does not allow expunction of DWI convictions. This makes fighting the charge — not just accepting a plea — critically important from the start.
Will I lose my job if convicted of DWI? +
It depends on your employer and profession. Jobs requiring commercial drivers’ licenses, security clearances, or professional licenses are especially at risk. A criminal record can appear on background checks for years. Avoiding a conviction through aggressive defense protects your employment future.
What is DWI deferred adjudication in Texas? +
Texas law limits deferred adjudication for DWI charges — it is not available in all circumstances. Attorney Cortez can evaluate your specific case to determine whether deferred adjudication is a viable and beneficial option, or whether fighting for an outright dismissal or acquittal is a better path.
Can I drive while my DWI case is pending? +
If you requested an ALR hearing within 15 days of your arrest, your driving privileges are typically preserved until the hearing. If you need to drive for work and your license is suspended, we can petition for an Occupational (Essential Needs) Driver’s License so you can maintain your livelihood.
How much does a DWI attorney cost in San Antonio? +
Attorney fees vary based on the complexity of the case and charges involved. What matters is weighing the cost of a conviction — fines, surcharges, job loss, higher insurance rates, and a permanent record — against the investment in your defense. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your situation.
Don’t Face Bexar County’s
DWI System Alone.
Every day you wait is a day the prosecution gains advantage. Call now for a free, confidential consultation with Attorney Genaro R. Cortez.