DUI/DWI

Harlingen DUI/DWI Attorneys

Defending the Rights of Clients in Brownsville, Hidalgo County, & Cameron County

Navigating an arrest, DUI (Driving Under Influence), or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charge can be a daunting and distressing ordeal, particularly for those experiencing their first interaction with the criminal justice system. The unpredictability of the outcome can contribute to feelings of isolation and anxiety.

Whether you are innocent or guilty of the crime you’ve been charged with, a legal defense is your right. For a knowledgeable and experienced DUI/DWI attorney who will advocate for you, look no further than the team at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers.

What Does it Take to Handle a DUI/DWI Case?

Handling a DUI (Driving Under Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) case requires a comprehensive understanding of the legal system, dedication, and meticulous attention to detail. It involves thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding the arrest, gathering evidence, and examining the legality of the traffic stop and arrest procedures. Skills in negotiating with prosecutors, familiarity with courtroom protocols, and the ability to construct a robust defense strategy are essential.

Additionally, staying updated with changing DUI/DWI laws and regulations is crucial for an effective criminal defense team on your side. With Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers by your side, you can face your legal challenges with confidence and peace of mind that your constitutional rights are protected.

Schedule a consultation with the Harlingen, San Benito, Brownsville, McAllen, Edinburg, and the Texas lower valley DUI/DWI attorneys at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers today by calling (956) 225-2509. Hablamos Español.

Why Choose Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers?

See What Sets Us Apart
  • Virtual Consultations Available
    You don't need to come to our office. We can meet virtually!
  • Dedicated to Helping the Community
    At our core, we are dedicated to giving back and contributing to the community.
  • Work with True Trial Attorneys
    We prepare each and every case as if it's headed for trial.
  • Free Initial Consultation
    Get started on your case with a free consultation today.

What is Driving Under the Influence?

A DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, is a criminal offense that occurs when an individual operates a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances. The impairment can compromise the driver's motor skills, reaction time, and judgment, making it dangerous to themselves and others on the road.

Legal limits for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) vary by jurisdiction, but a common standard in many places, including Texas, is a BAC of 0.08% for drivers aged 21 and over. DUI laws are strict, and penalties for offenders can include fines, jail time, license suspension, and mandatory substance abuse education programs.

What is the Difference Between a DUI and a DWI Charge?

While both DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charges pertain to operating a vehicle under the influence of substances that impair one's abilities, they are distinct in several ways. In many states, a DUI is often associated with drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs with a lower blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level, typically below the legal limit of 0.08%, but still exhibiting signs of impairment. This charge can also apply to underage drivers found with any measurable amount of alcohol in their system. On the other hand, a DWI charge usually refers to drivers whose BAC is at or above the legal limit, signifying a higher degree of intoxication.

The distinction between DUI and DWI can vary by state, with some states using the terms interchangeably, while others have specific legal definitions and consequent penalties. In Texas, for instance, DWI is the commonly used term to describe the offense of driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. At the same time, DUI charges usually pertain to minors under the age of 21 caught driving with any detectable amount of alcohol in their system. Understanding these distinctions is crucial as they influence the severity of charges, potential defenses, and resulting penalties. 

Five Reasons You Should Never Face DUI/DWI Charges Alone

Facing DUI/DWI charges can be an overwhelming, daunting, and confusing experience. The complexities of the legal system and the potential consequences make it imperative to approach your defense with the assistance of a knowledgeable attorney.

Here are five reasons why you should never face DUI/DWI charges alone:

  1. Complex legal system: Navigating the legal system without professional guidance can be overwhelming and result in detrimental mistakes.
  2. Severe penalties: The consequences of a Driving Under Influence or Driving While Intoxicated conviction can be severe, including fines that may range in the thousands of dollars, license suspensions or revocations, and even prison.
  3. Evidence challenges: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence, such as breathalyzer results, often requires specific legal knowledge and access to expert witnesses.
  4. Plea bargaining: An experienced attorney can negotiate plea deals that might reduce charges or lessen penalties.
  5. Future implications: A Driving Under Influence or Driving While Intoxicated conviction can have long-term impacts on employment, insurance rates, and personal reputation, professional licenses, which a skilled lawyer can help mitigate.

Working with a qualified attorney who understands the Texas Driving Under Influence and Driving While Intoxicated laws can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Our Texas DUI/DWI attorneys bring experience and an invaluable strategic approach when dealing with Driving Under Influence or Driving While Intoxicated charges. Remember, you do not have to face this challenge alone; professional legal help is just a call away.

Contact our Harlingen DUI/DWI lawyerts today for a free consultation by calling (956) 225-2509 or reaching out to our team online. Trust Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers to provide the robust defense you need to face these challenging situations.

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Hear from Our Clients

Providing Support Every Step of the Way

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    “The folks at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers are knowledgeable friendly and caring”
    The folks at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers are knowledgeable friendly and caring. When choosing a lawyer you need someone who will treat you like you are more than a case number. That's where Juan shines. He may be a new face to the Valley legal experience, but his compassion and dedication to fight for your cause is what sets him apart from the rest. If you need
    - Brooke S.
    “Really takes care of your issues quickly and aggressively!”
    Our family’s go-to for legal/civil issues! Really takes care of your issues quickly and aggressively! Thank you Mr. Pecina for resolving my civil issue against someone who thought he could take advantage of yet another honest customer for the hundredth time, but not this time… too bad for him Pecina was called! 1000000% felt like Pecina had my back and handled it so professionally, perfectly, and aggressively! He is who you need!
    - Nelly E.
    “Took the time to explain everything each step of the way.”

    Contacted his office over a civil issue and got a quick result. The staff and Attorney were very responsive when I had questions about my case and took the time to explain everything each step of the way. The results were in my favor, I will always be thankful for resolving my issue and treating me like family.

    - Jorge E.
    “Contact them, it'll be the best decision you've ever made.”

    If you're looking for your average, run of the Mill law firm, Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers just isn't for you. If you're looking for a law from that specializes in your individual needs, and that genuinely cares about your specific situation, you have found the right place. Contact them, it'll be the best decision you've ever made.

    - Anna T.
    “Mr. Pecina was the only reasonable & honest attorney we encountered.”

    Mr. Pecina took care of me & my family. He treated us like we were a part of his family. I cannot stress how many different attorneys we spoke to who gave us a runaround & collected our money. Mr. Pecina was the only reasonable & honest attorney we encountered. He explained everything thoroughly & efficiently both in English & Spanish. It is difficult to find a bilingual law firm that is willing to work with & help out the little guy. Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers is it. I cannot recommend this firm & its team enough. I will have Mr. Pecina do all of my legal work from now on & in the future. Thank you Sir for all of your help.

    - Slavko C.
    “They are an amazing team and will go the extra mile for their clients”

    The office is very welcoming and provides excellent customer service. They are an amazing team and will go the extra mile for their clients. I super recommend to anyone looking for help with legal matters! 

    - Gabriela R.
    “They were knowledgeable and provided exceptional customer service.”

    Great communication and answered all questions I had regarding an injury sustained as a result of a car accident. In addition, they were knowledgeable and provided exceptional customer service.

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    “100% recommend them. Don’t hesitate to contact them.”

    Best at what they do, 100% recommend them. Don’t hesitate to contact them for your law firm needs. Kassandra was the best at helping me with my questions and was very professional.

    - Shannon C.

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