DWI Attorney in Houston

How We Build Your DWI Defense

The specifics of the stop, the officer’s conduct, the evidence collected, and the strength of the prosecution’s case all shape what a viable defense looks like. We scrutinize the available evidence, engage directly with the district attorney, and analyze witness accounts to build a strategy tailored to your situation. Where the facts support it, we file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge cases that stem from unconstitutional conduct, including improper stops, sobriety checkpoints, and illegal searches or seizures.

Defense preparation also means staying current on the legal precedents and scientific principles relevant to DWI testing. We question the reliability of test results and work with appropriate witnesses when their analysis can challenge the prosecution’s claims. The available strategy depends on the evidence, particularly for first-time defendants and clients with minimal criminal history.

Our review may include:

• Patrol video.
• Body-camera footage.
• Dispatch records.
• Reports.
• Witness statements.
• Breath-test records.
• Toxicology results.
• The chain of custody for a blood specimen.

We also compare what an officer wrote with what the recordings and testing records actually show. Trial preparation begins with understanding what the state can prove, not simply accepting the conclusions in an arrest report.

Potential defense issues include:

• Challenging whether the officer had a lawful basis for the traffic stop.
• Disputing how field sobriety tests were administered or interpreted.
• Examining breath-testing procedures and equipment records.
• Reviewing blood collection, laboratory analysis, and chain of custody.
• Disputing whether the state can prove operation of the vehicle.
• Identifying unlawful searches, seizures, or other constitutional violations.
• Presenting relevant medical conditions or lawful medication use.
• Testing the accuracy and credibility of witness accounts.

Options after a First DWI Charge

A first charge doesn’t produce one automatic outcome. Depending on the evidence, criminal history, prosecutor’s position, and court requirements, the available paths may include contested motions, trial, plea negotiations, community supervision, an eligible diversion program, or deferred adjudication where permitted by law. Eligibility and conditions must be confirmed for the individual case.

Community supervision may include a DWI education program, community service, alcohol or drug testing, and an ignition interlock device. These requirements aren’t interchangeable, and they shouldn’t be presented as certain before the charge and proposed terms have been reviewed. We explain the legal and practical consequences so you can compare a negotiated resolution with continued litigation and make an informed decision.

How Long a Houston DWI Case Can Take

There isn’t a reliable universal timeline for a DWI case. Scheduling depends on the court, pending laboratory work, discovery, motion practice, negotiations, witness availability, and whether the case proceeds to trial. A case involving blood testing or contested scientific evidence may move differently from one based primarily on officer observations and breath testing.

We keep you informed at each stage, explain upcoming court settings, and prepare required filings and appearances. Direct communication also helps you understand whether a setting is procedural, whether a decision is required, and what work remains before the case can be resolved or tried.

Direct Attorney Access & Trial Preparation

Licensed in Texas since 2016 and selected to the 2025 Rising Stars list, Alexander J. Houthuijzen approaches DWI defense as a trial attorney. He is prepared to take a case to trial when the facts and the client’s decisions call for it rather than pushing every client toward a quick resolution.

You work directly with Alex throughout the case. We keep you informed, involve you in decisions, and treat you as a member of the defense team. Spanish-language service is also available. Hablamos español.

Preparing for Your DWI Consultation

Bring or preserve the paperwork provided after the arrest:

• Any temporary permit.
• Suspension notice.
• Bond documents.
• Court information.

Be ready to discuss the arrest date, whether testing was requested, whether you provided or refused a specimen, any prior DWI history, and your immediate driving concerns. Don’t assume the criminal case and driver’s license matter share the same deadline.

We offer free consultations to review this information and identify the next procedural steps. You can begin by contacting us online or calling (713) 600-9902.