Getting arrested for DWI in San Antonio means you’re dealing with police, tests, and and paperwork right away. Officers don’t waste time. You’re asked to do roadside tests, answer questions, and if things go badly, you’re cuffed and on your way to the station. The process is fast and leaves no time to figure things out as you go.

• Field sobriety and breath tests on the roadside
• Arrest and transport to the station
• Booking: fingerprints, mugshots, paperwork
• Release on bond or bail, sometimes with strict conditions
• Immediate notice of license suspension. You have 15 days to fight it

Deadlines don’t wait. Miss one, and you lose options. The system doesn’t slow down for confusion or hesitation. For a clear breakdown of the process, see our San Antonio DWI defense resource.

License Suspension Hits Fast

Texas doesn’t wait for a conviction to take your license. The Department of Public Safety sends a suspension notice right after your arrest arrest. You get 15 days to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. Miss that window, and your license goes on the shelf, sometimes for a year or more.

• First DWI: 90 days to a year without a license
• Refuse a breath or blood test: longer, automatic suspension
• Commercial drivers: stricter rules, longer suspensions
• Hardship licenses exist, but you have to move fast

The ALR process is unforgiving. No second chances. If you want to keep driving, you need to act immediately. For answers to the most common questions, check our DWI FAQ.

Court Hearings Move Quickly

San Antonio courts don’t drag their feet. After release, you’ll get a notice for your arraignment. This is where you hear the charges and enter a plea. The judge doesn’t wait for you to get comfortable. Miss a date, and a warrant goes out for your arrest. The court expects you to show up, prepared and on time.

Pretrial hearings follow. Each one is a chance to challenge the evidence, question the arrest, or negotiate a better outcome. The process is relentless. The court calendar fills up fast, and your case moves with it. For a deeper look at what happens in court, see our guide to court consequences.

Ignition Interlock Devices Are Common

Judges in Texas don’t hesitate to order ignition interlock devices, especially for repeat offenses or high blood alcohol levels. The device sits in your car, waiting for a clean breath sample before the engine starts. Fail the test, and you’re not going anywhere. Try to cheat the system, and the court finds out.

• You pay for installation and monthly monitoring
• Regular calibration is required. Miss it, and you’re in violation
• Every failed test is reported to the court
• Attempts to bypass the device bring new charges

The rules are strict. No shortcuts. For more on what to expect with these devices, see our Texas DWI laws overview.

DWI Penalties Stack Up Fast

San Antonio doesn’t go easy on DWI convictions. Even a first offense brings heavy consequences. Fines, jail time, and license suspension are just the start. Insurance rates spike. Community service and alcohol education classes become part of your routine. Add a high BAC, an accident, or a child in the car, and the penalties climb even higher.

• First DWI: Up to $2,000 in fines, 3-180 days in jail, license suspension
• Second DWI: Higher fines, longer jail time, longer suspension
• Third or more: Felony charges, years in prison, permanent record
• Other consequences: Ignition interlock, probation, mandatory treatment

Penalties don’t stop at the courtroom door. They follow you. Job applications, background checks, insurance renewals. For a full comparison of Texas DWI penalties and other charges, see our criminal defense overview.

Why You Need a DWI Lawyer Early

Legal deadlines don’t wait for you to get organized. The sooner you call a DWI attorney in San Antonio, the more options you keep. At The Law Offices of Gary Churak, we know how to challenge the evidence, protect your license, and push for the best possible outcome. Waiting until your court date is around the corner limits your defense. Early action gives you leverage.

Facing other charges, such as drug offenses or assault and battery? Our legal team can guide you through every step. Questions about clearing your record? Our expungement resource explains your options. Don’t let confusion or fear keep you from getting help.

Speak with Our Team About DWI Defense in San Antonio

If you’re ready to take control of your DWI case, reach out to The Law Offices of Gary Churak. Call 210-545-3850 or contact us to get answers and start building your defense today.