What To Do After A DWI Arrest In Houston
The days after a DWI arrest matter. Here is a practical, step-by-step guide to protecting your license and your case. Leslie LeGrand is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a former Harris County prosecutor, and has 24 years of experience as a Texas lawyer.
Free ConsultationFormer Harris County prosecutor · 24 years in Texas criminal law
Your First Steps, In Order
1. Write down the 15-day deadline
If you received a notice of suspension, you generally have only 15 days to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. Miss it and the suspension usually takes effect automatically. Learn more about ALR hearings.
2. Do not discuss the case
Do not talk about the arrest with anyone except your lawyer. That includes friends, coworkers, the other driver, and especially social media. Jail phone calls are typically recorded, and statements can be used as evidence.
3. Gather your paperwork
Keep everything you were given: the bond paperwork, the notice of suspension (often form DIC-25), the DIC-24 statutory warning if you were asked for a sample, any towing or impound receipt, and your court date information.
4. Write down what you remember
While it is fresh, write a private timeline for your lawyer: where you were, what and when you ate and drank, any medications or medical conditions, why you were stopped, what tests were requested, and where you were tested. Note possible witnesses and any businesses that may have video, which can be overwritten quickly.
5. Keep your bond conditions
Follow every bond condition exactly. Courts may require an ignition interlock device, alcohol monitoring, or no-alcohol conditions, particularly for repeat offenses or cases involving injury. A violation can lead to a new arrest.
6. Plan for driving and work
If your license is suspended, you may qualify for an occupational driver’s license. If you hold a commercial driver’s license, tell your lawyer right away, because a DWI can affect a CDL even when the vehicle was personal.
7. Talk to a DWI defense lawyer early
An early review lets your lawyer request the ALR hearing, preserve video, request breath or blood test records, and look at whether the stop, arrest, and testing were lawful. See blood and breath test defense.
Mistakes That Hurt DWI Cases
- Missing the 15-day ALR deadline.
- Posting about the night of the arrest online.
- Calling the arresting officer or the prosecutor to explain.
- Driving while your license is suspended.
- Ignoring bond conditions or interlock appointments.
More DWI Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fight a DWI if I failed the breath test?
Yes. A result is evidence, not an automatic conviction. Instrument maintenance, operator certification, the observation period, and the timing of the test can all be reviewed.
Should I request the ALR hearing even if I want to plead?
Usually it is worth discussing first. The hearing is separate from the criminal case, can sometimes prevent a suspension, and can provide sworn testimony from the officer that is useful later.
When is my first court date?
It is usually listed on your bond paperwork. In Harris County, DWI misdemeanors are heard in the County Criminal Courts at Law. Confirm the date and courtroom with your lawyer.
Will my car be impounded?
Vehicles are often towed after a DWI arrest. Keep the receipt, retrieve the vehicle promptly to limit storage fees, and do not discuss the case with tow or storage staff.
Does a DWI arrest mean I will be convicted?
No. Many cases are reduced or dismissed based on problems with the stop, the testing, or the evidence. No outcome can be promised, but an arrest is only the beginning of the case.
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