DWI Lawyer Serving Addison

Getting hit with a DUI charge in Addison is more than just stressful. It can mess with every part of your life. You could lose your license, take a hit at work, and deal with the fallout at home and in your community. You need a DUI lawyer who is not just going to guide you through it but who is ready to fight hard for you every step of the way. That is exactly what you get at Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian.

If you have been arrested for driving while intoxicated, do not wait. Call (972) 369-0577 or contact us online to speak with a seasoned criminal defense attorney in Addison who knows how to challenge every inch of the state’s case against you. 

The Harsh Reality of DWI Charges in Addison

Texas law takes drunk driving seriously, and the courts in Addison are no exception. One DWI arrest can set off a chain of legal consequences—some you will feel right away, others that can follow you for years. Even a first-time DWI in Texas carries the risk of hefty fines, possible jail time, and license suspension.

But with the right defense strategy, it’s possible to get charges reduced or even dismissed. Success often comes down to a thorough knowledge of Texas DWI laws, along with understanding how local courts handle these cases. 

What to Expect After a DWI Arrest in Addison

If you have never been through the DWI court process, it can feel overwhelming. Within days of your arrest, you are facing administrative license suspension, possible arraignment, and pre-trial hearings—time matters. Delays can hurt your defense.

Here’s what typically happens:

• License Suspension Warning: You only have 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. If you miss this window, your license could be suspended automatically.
• Arraignment: This is your first court appearance. The judge formally reads your charges, and you enter a plea.
• Pre-Trial Hearings: This is where your Addison criminal defense lawyer for DWI can challenge the state’s evidence—including whether field sobriety tests were administered correctly or if your rights were violated.

A strong defense starts with understanding what is ahead—and acting quickly to protect your rights at every stage. 

License Suspension: What You Need to Know

Losing your license can be nearly as disruptive as any criminal penalty. Without it, everyday life becomes harder—getting to work, caring for your family, or even running simple errands becomes a challenge.

Under Texas’s ALR (Administrative License Revocation) program, the Department of Public Safety can suspend your license even if you are not convicted. That is why quick action matters. A DUI defense attorney in Addison can request a hearing to challenge the suspension and fight to keep you on the road.

At Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian, we will walk you through your options, including discussing occupational licenses that let you drive for essential needs like work or medical appointments. 

Understanding Texas DWI Penalties

The penalties for DWI/DUI convictions in Texas vary depending on your BAC level, age, prior offenses, and whether there was an accident involved. But here’s a breakdown of what you are up against:

• First Offense: Up to $2,000 in fines, 180 days in jail, and license suspension up to a year.
• Second Offense: Up to $4,000 in fines, jail time up to one year, and license suspension for up to two years.
• Third Offense: Felony charges, up to $10,000 in fines, and 2–10 years in prison.

Additional penalties may include mandatory ignition interlock devices, DWI education courses, and probation. Repeat offenses and aggravated circumstances (such as having a child in the car) dramatically raise the stakes. 

First-Time DWI Defense: You Have Got Options

A first-time DWI does not have to derail your future. In some cases, the court may offer alternative sentencing or diversion programs—especially if you have a clean record. But those outcomes do not just happen. You need a DWI attorney in Addison who knows how to fight for them.

We dig into every angle:

• Was the stop legal?
• Did the officer have probable cause to stop you?
• Were the tests accurate?
• Could a health issue explain your behavior?

Even first offenses deserve aggressive defense. The penalties might be lighter, but your record and reputation remain on the line. We are here to protect both. 

Challenging Field Sobriety and Breath Tests

Many DUI charges in Addison hinge on field sobriety tests or breathalyzer results. But these methods are not perfect—and neither are the people using them.

• Field Sobriety Test Errors: Officers may fail to explain instructions clearly or conduct the tests in poor conditions. Uneven pavement, fatigue, or nervousness can easily skew the results.
• Breathalyzer Test Accuracy: Machines must be calibrated correctly and operated by trained personnel. Even a tiny margin of error can result in faulty BAC readings.

An experienced drunk driving lawyer in Addison knows how to challenge these tests in court. We have successfully had charges reduced—or tossed altogether—based on test errors and procedural violations. 

Police Misconduct and Your DUI Arrest

Not every DWI/DUI arrest follows proper legal procedure. If your rights were violated during the stop or arrest, it could significantly impact your case.

Common issues include:

• Failure to read Miranda rights
• Illegal traffic stops
• Intimidation during questioning
• Mishandling evidence

At Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian, we’ll dig deep into the details. When law enforcement has crossed the line, we’ll take action—whether it is filing motions to suppress evidence or pushing for a case dismissal. Police misconduct is not just unfair—it is a legal advantage when handled correctly. You deserve a defense team that knows how to use the actions of law enforcement for the betterment of your legal position whenever possible. 

Your Lawyer Should Have Local Insight

Every city has its own way of doing things, and Addison’s is no different. From the cops who regularly watch Belt Line Road to the judges in Dallas County, our DWI lawyers know the local scene—and how to make it work in your favor.

Our team sticks to criminal defense, and we have spent years handling DWI cases right here in Addison. We know the law—but we also know how our local law and court systems work. Our game plan comes from actual courtroom time, local connections, and results that speak for themselves.

When you hire us, you are not just getting a lawyer. You are getting an edge. 

Why Choose Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian?

When your freedom’s at risk, you need more than a lawyer—you need a team that knows how to fight and does not back down. At Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian, we take DUI charges seriously because we know what is on the line. We understand the law, the local courts, and the science behind these cases. That kind of experience gives you a real shot right out of the gate.

We have handled thousands of DWI and DUI cases across Texas—everything from first-time offenses to serious felony charges. Whether we are pushing back in court or working out a deal behind the scenes, we are in your corner, ready to protect your future. 

FAQs About DUI Charges in Addison

DUI arrests leave the accused with many questions—and significant consequences if they do not have the correct information. 

How long will a DUI stay on my record in Texas?

A DUI conviction can stay on your record forever. Texas does not offer automatic expungement, though certain first-time offenses may qualify for nondisclosure under specific conditions. 

What if I refused the breathalyzer?

Refusing a breathalyzer can lead to automatic license suspension under Texas’s implied consent laws. However, the refusal may also limit the evidence against you. Talk to a DWI lawyer in Addison about how to use this to your advantage. 

Can I get my license back after a DUI arrest?

Yes, but you have to act quickly. You must request an ALR hearing within 15 days of your arrest. Missing this deadline means you will lose your right to challenge the suspension. 

Is it possible to avoid jail time for a DUI?

Absolutely. First-time offenders may qualify for probation, community service, or diversion programs. A skilled DUI attorney in Addison can push for these alternatives based on the specifics of your case. 

Do I really need a lawyer for a DUI?

Yes. DUI cases involve complex legal and scientific issues. The prosecution has experts, labs, and legal resources on their side. You deserve someone in your corner who knows how to dismantle their case.

Our team is here to walk you through it—step by step, strategy by strategy. 

Do Not Let One Mistake Define You

A DWI or DUI charge is not the end of the road. With the right legal help, there is a real chance to get the charges reduced—or even dropped. But you have to move fast.

Call (972) 369-0577 or contact us online to set up a consultation. When your license, record, and future are all at risk, you do not have time to wait. A DUI lawyer in Addison at Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian is ready to jump in and fight for you. Let’s take back control—starting today.