Background Information for Alcohol-Related Offenses

The following information may be helpful for those accused of an alcohol related or DWI offense:

• DUI means Driving Under the Influence and is only for persons under 21 with any detectable amount of alcohol in their system.
• A DUI charge is only for detectable amounts of alcohol - it does not mean the person is intoxicated.
• DWI means Driving While Intoxicated and is defined as having a blood alcohol content .08 or over.
• DWI also means having lost the normal use of a person's physical faculties or mental faculties.
• Making alcohol available to a minor means anyone buying or providing alcohol to someone under 21.
• Open Container - if there was an open container of alcohol in the car, a fine not to exceed $500 may be imposed.
• 1st offense DWI conviction for an individual under 21 years of age will result in a one year driver's license suspension in addition to any other penalty imposed.
• 2nd and 3rd time DWI offenses carry much more substantial fines, penalties, and potential jail time.
• Lastly, a conviction for any DWI also carries the imposition of a driver's license surcharge by the Texas Department of Public Safety.