First Offense DWI Lawyer in Houston
Trial Defense for First-Time DWI Charges in Harris County
An arrest for driving while intoxicated is not a conviction. The prosecution still has to prove intoxication beyond a reasonable doubt, and there are often real weaknesses in that proof. At Alexander J. Houthuijzen, Attorney-at-Law, we’re a trial attorney practice based in Downtown Houston, and when it matters, we take cases to trial. A first-time charge deserves the same level of commitment as any other.
Our approach centers on giving clients knowledge, protecting their rights, and keeping them part of every decision. You won’t be pushed toward a quick resolution because it’s convenient. You’ll know what’s happening at each stage and why.
Your first consultation is free. Call us at (713) 600-9902 or reach out through our online contact form to discuss your case.
What Texas Law Says About a First DWI
Under Texas Penal Code Section 49.04(a), driving while intoxicated means operating a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. Texas defines intoxication two ways: not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties due to alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances, or having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher. Either definition can support a charge.
A standard first offense is a Class B misdemeanor. If the driver’s BAC was 0.15 or higher, the charge rises to a Class A misdemeanor under Section 49.04(d), which carries a higher penalty range.
Why First-Time Clients Work with Alexander J. Houthuijzen, Attorney-at-Law
Attorney Alexander J. Houthuijzen has been licensed in Texas since 2016 and was selected to Rising Stars in 2025. What matters most to your case is how he handles it: precisely, at the moment it counts, with one-on-one communication throughout. You’re not a file number. You’re part of the team working on your own defense.
We also offer Spanish language services. Hablamos español.
Challenging the State’s Evidence in a First-Time DWI Case
We review the circumstances of every case and look for weaknesses in what the state is relying on. That review starts at the traffic stop itself. A stop requires reasonable suspicion, and if that legal standard wasn’t met, evidence gathered afterward can be challenged. Field sobriety tests are only reliable when administered according to standardized procedures, and deviations matter.
Breath test results depend on proper calibration, maintenance, and observation periods. Blood test results depend on correct collection, storage, and an unbroken chain of custody. Any failure in those processes can affect how much weight the evidence carries. We don’t accept the state’s case at face value.
Why How This Case Ends Matters Beyond Today
Texas applies a lifetime look-back period for prior DWI, FWI, or BWI convictions. A conviction from any point in your past can be used to enhance the punishment range if you face an intoxication-related charge in the future. There’s no expiration on that exposure. How a first DWI resolves isn’t just about the immediate penalties. It shapes what’s at stake in every case that comes after it.
That’s why we don’t push toward the fastest outcome. We work with you to understand your options, weigh the consequences, and make decisions you’re part of.
Talk to a Houston DWI Attorney Before Your Case Moves Forward
The decisions made in the first days after a first-offense DWI arrest shape everything that follows, from your license to your record to your future exposure. We offer free consultations so you can understand your situation before committing to any course of action.
Alexander J. Houthuijzen has handled civil and criminal cases in Harris County courts since 2016 and can be directly involved in your case from start to finish. Call Alexander J. Houthuijzen, Attorney-at-Law today at (713) 600-9902 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
Why Choose Alex the Defender?
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Free Initial Consultations for Personal Injury Cases
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Focused On Clients' Best Interest
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Compassionate & Caring
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Personalized Attention