Román Law Office
Learn More At 210-953-0568
Román Law Office

Learn more at 210-953-0568.

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Serving San Antonio Since 2004
With Dedicated Legal Representation

Your Future Is Not Over After A Drunk Driving Charge

Last updated on April 27, 2026

When the police pull you over and administer intoxication tests, many people are convinced that their future is over. A charge of driving under the influence (DUI) will follow you and can have a devastating impact on your financial and personal future. But a ticket is not the same as a conviction, and you still have the power to fight the charges against you – if you take the right steps.

This is where Bexar County criminal defense attorney Armando J. Román can help you. After serving Texans for nearly two decades at his law firm, Román Law Office, he understands the legal system and how to advocate for you in the criminal justice system. Come to his San Antonio law office so you can talk about the specifics of your drunk driving charge.

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What Texas Law Says About Drunk Driving

For as much as the police want you to believe that a charge inevitably leads to a conviction, even seemingly open-and-shut cases have an opportunity for defense. Breathalyzers and other intoxication tests are often miscalibrated, inaccurate or improperly applied. Any kind of police overreach or misconduct can be used as a defense.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious criminal offense, which can lead to both serious fines and lengthy prison sentences. On top of those consequences, a conviction can prevent you from receiving assistance like food stamps or housing and can jeopardize your educational and employment prospects. Aggravating factors – like the presence of children or serious resulting injuries to others – can mean substantially more serious penalties in addition to the basics. Ask yourself: Can you afford not to fight?

Texas Drunk Driving FAQs

Below, the firm has provided clear, practical answers to common questions regarding DWI/DUI defense in San Antonio.

How does the Texas law distinguish between a DWI and a DUI?

The state maintains a zero-tolerance policy for minors, which is why the legal definitions are so specific. The charges differ as follows:

  • DWI (Driving While Intoxicated): Applies to adults operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, typically with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher.
  • DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Generally applies to drivers under 21 who have any detectable alcohol in their system, even below 0.08%.

These differences can affect how a case is prosecuted and defended. A knowledgeable DUI/DWI defense attorney will tailor the approach based on the exact charge and circumstances.

Can I refuse a breath or field sobriety test, and what happens if I do?

Yes, in Texas, you can refuse certain tests, but there are consequences, including:

  • License suspension: Refusing a breath or blood test can trigger an automatic suspension under implied consent laws.
  • Evidence implications: Refusal may still be used against you in court as part of the overall case.

While refusal may limit immediate evidence, it does not stop a case from moving forward. The right DWI attorney will assess whether the stop, arrest and testing procedures were handled lawfully.

Can a DUI or DWI charge really cost me my driver’s license?

Yes, Texas operates under “implied consent” laws, which means the state considers driving on public roads as an agreement to submit to testing. As such, refusal leads to consequences including:

  • Administrative suspension: This can happen quickly after arrest, separate from the criminal case.
  • Court-ordered penalties: A conviction may extend the suspension or impose additional restrictions.

With the right legal guidance from a DUI lawyer, there may be options to protect or restore driving privileges.

How can a drunk driving charge impact my immigration status?

The fallout of a drunk driving charge often extends to a person’s legal standing in the country. For those who are not citizens, a criminal record can lead to issues with visas, green cards or even deportation.

Your Defense Starts With A Consultation

Your future matters at Román Law Office. Contact the law firm to work with an award-winning attorney with experience and tenacity. To set up a consultation, please call the San Antonio office of Armando at 210-953-0568 or send him an email today. Do not wait.