Law Exempts the Indigent from Texas DWI Surcharges

Texas drivers convicted of DWI are required to pay additional Driver Responsibility surcharges for three years following the date of their conviction. For a first-time conviction, drivers are billed $1,000 a year for the three-year period; $1,500 a year for three years on a second-conviction; and $2,000 a year for three years if they measured 0.16 percent or more blood alcohol concentration on a chemical test. Those, however, who can prove to the courts that they are indigent can seek a waiver of the surcharges through the courts. Indigent status must be proven to the court through proper evidence, such as with federal tax returns, recent statements of wages, or proof that the individual receives government assistance in the form of food stamps, federal nutritional programs, medical assistance programs, child health plans, or reduced or free lunch programs for children.

As of February, 2012, however, very few court orders from judges which would waive the surcharges have been received by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Another indigency program under the Texas Department of Public Safety allows drivers to comply with surcharges which are not waived but reduced. Both programs apply to individuals living at or below 125 percent of the federal poverty level.

DWI Defense in Collin County, Texas

Aside from surcharges, those convicted of a DWI in the state of Texas face other serious penalties, including jail time, heavy fines and fees, and a license suspension of up to one year for a first conviction. For many, fighting a conviction is vital. In these cases, it is crucial to have the legal representation of an attorney who focuses on DWI defense in your local area. The Law Office of Troy P. Burleson does just that, providing competent and effective legal assistance to those facing DWI charges of all kinds. Mr. Burleson has achieved over 170 not guilty trial verdicts in the past six years and has earned a 5 star client rating and high ranking on Avvo for his outstanding work.

If you have been arrested and charged for alcohol and / or drug-impaired driving of any type in Collin County, contact his office immediately to speak to him about your defense. You can also educate yourself on DWI topics with general information provided at his firm's website at www.thedwitrialguy.com.