The First 72 Hours After DWI Arrest in Hidalgo County: What You Should and Should Not Do

When you’re arrested for driving while impaired in Hidalgo County, you have to go through two separate proceedings. The criminal case determines whether you’re convicted and which penalties you face, while administrative proceedings may result in an Administrative License Revocation. This is why the first 72 hours after a DWI arrest matter so much; the steps you take may determine which legal options are still available to you. Reaching out to a DWI defense attorney in Texas can put you in a better position to protect your rights.

That’s where the team at Garza Law Office, PLLC steps in to help. Attorney Dora Alicia Garza brings her experience in various areas of law to her practice, serving clients throughout Hidalgo County. She is committed to ensuring that her clients know their rights and providing experienced representation throughout their criminal case. Call our DWI defense law firm at 956-329-1304 to discuss your legal options now.

The First 24 Hours: Understand Your Release and Bond Conditions

While we know that this is a stressful and overwhelming time, taking the proper steps now is crucial. Review every document you received during booking and release. These documents may include bond paperwork, court information, property receipt, a temporary driving permit, and a DIC-24. This is a statutory warning.

You should be aware of your release conditions, as they may prohibit alcohol use, require random testing, limit your travel, or require an ignition interlock device. Don’t assume that a listed condition is not applicable to you because you don’t remember anyone discussing it with you; always assume that everything in your paperwork is applicable to your case.

Do Not Discuss the Arrest on Social Media or With Potential Witnesses

It can be a significant challenge for a DWI defense lawyer to defend you as effectively as possible after you’ve spoken about your arrest on social media. Photos, messages, location records, and posts about the arrest can be used as evidence.

You should also avoid reaching out to passengers in the vehicle to coordinate stories. This can lead to further legal issues and damage your credibility.

Finally, be careful about speaking with police, prosecutors, or insurance companies. Explaining your side rarely clears this type of situation up; your DWI defense lawyer should be the first person you give a detailed explanation.

Act Quickly to Protect Your License

Remember, your Administrative License Revocation case is separate from your criminal charges. You typically only have 25 days from receiving a DIC-25 notice to request a hearing and challenge your proposed suspension. During this hearing, you may have the chance to discover whether the police had reasonable suspicion to stop you or probable cause to arrest you. The proceedings can provide information about your arrest.

Write a Timeline of What Happened

The memories of your arrest may fade quickly, so it’s important to write down exactly what you remember as soon as possible. You may want to note specific things the officer said, instructions given during field sobriety tests, and what you were told about your rights. Other valuable forms of evidence may include video footage, rideshare records, and phone location data.

Contact a DWI Defense Attorney Before Making Major Decisions

Your Hidalgo County DWI attorney can help you address the criminal charge and the administrative process. The defense route they choose depends on the circumstances of your case and what the evidence uncovers. The sooner you bring in an attorney, the less chance you have to unintentionally incriminate yourself.

What You Should Not Do During the First 72 Hours

Avoid violating your release conditions, driving without a permit, destroying evidence, or ignoring notices from law enforcement agencies. You should also not make plans based on advice from those who have been arrested for DWI. These cases can vary significantly based on the circumstances and facts behind the arrest, and the most relevant advice will come from your lawyer.

Take the First Step With Our Edinburg DWI Law Firm

If you’ve been arrested for driving while impaired, our DWI defense law firm is here to help. Call us at 956-329-1304 or reach out online now.

Dora Alicia Garza

Dora Alicia Garza is a seasoned attorney based in Texas and the Founder of Garza Law Office, PLLC. She has built a respected practice across multiple areas of law, including criminal defense, family law, personal injury, guardianships & wills, estate planning & probate, immigration, debt defense and juvenile law. Learn more here.