DUI & DWI Defense Lawyers in El Paso
Aggressive Defense for Drivers in West Texas & Surrounding Areas
An arrest for drunk driving can feel like an open-and-shut case. Between breathalyzer data, blood test results, and the intimidating nature of roadside sobriety tests, you may mistakenly believe you have no choice but to plead guilty. This is a dangerous assumption. A DUI or DWI charge is not an automatic conviction; it is a complex, highly technical allegation that can be actively fought and won.
West Texas Trial Lawyers, PLLC provides the aggressive, trial-ready criminal defense you need to stand against the state’s evidence. Serving El Paso, Midland, Odessa, and communities throughout West Texas, our legal team is led by two former prosecutors with over 30 years of combined experience.
We know exactly how the state trains its officers and builds its cases, and we know how to expose the flaws, inconsistencies, and constitutional violations that can dismantle them.
Request a complimentary in-office or virtual consultation with an El Paso DUI/DWI defense attorney by contacting our firm online or at (915) 201-1000. Available 24/7. Hablamos español.
How We Fight DUI & DWI Charges in West Texas
We start by preparing your case for trial from the outset. Our team rigorously challenges the technical and scientific validity of the state’s case. This meticulous, thorough approach puts you in the best position for a favorable outcome.
Challenging the Initial Stop
The police must have a constitutionally valid, reasonable suspicion to pull you over or approach your vehicle. We review dash-cam and body-cam footage to determine if the officer fabricated or exaggerated a traffic violation.
If the initial stop was illegal, any evidence collected afterward, including breath and blood tests, is inadmissible, which often results in a total dismissal.
Scrutinizing Field Sobriety Tests
Roadside physical tests are highly subjective and notoriously unreliable. Officers must administer them under strict, standardized guidelines. We evaluate environmental factors, such as uneven asphalt, poor lighting, passing traffic, or personal medical conditions, to prove that your performance was not a sign of mental or physical impairment.
Attacking Breath and Blood Test Science
Chemical tests are prone to machine calibration errors, improper sample handling, and protocol violations. We request and audit full maintenance logs, officer certification records, and chain-of-custody documentation for blood vials. If the state cannot prove the equipment was functioning flawlessly or that your sample was stored properly, the results can be suppressed.
What Our Investigative Process Means for Drivers
After our firm reviews your case, you will understand whether procedural errors occurred and what defense strategies apply to your situation.
You will know whether the arresting officer documented the stop accurately, whether the testing equipment functioned correctly, and whether there are alternative explanations for the observations recorded in the police report.
The outcome may include reduced charges, dismissal of evidence, or dismissal of the case, depending on the strength of the procedural failures identified.
Understanding DWI in Texas: The Dual-Track System
An arrest for driving while intoxicated sets off two separate, parallel legal battles. Many drivers mistakenly believe they face only a single criminal charge, but Texas law uses a dual-track system that strikes at both your freedom and your driving privileges simultaneously.
To protect yourself, you must understand how these two distinct processes operate:
Speak Directly with An Attorney and Get Clear Answers About Your Options and Next Steps.
DUI vs. DWI: What is the Difference in Texas?
In everyday conversation, people use "DUI" and "DWI" to mean the same thing. However, under Texas law, they are two entirely different crimes based strictly on the driver's age.
DWI (Driving While Intoxicated): This applies primarily to adults 21 and older. It is charged when a person operates a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. "Intoxicated" means not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties due to alcohol or drugs, or having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
DUI (Driving Under the Influence): In Texas, a DUI is a crime that applies strictly to minors under the age of 21. Texas enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy for underage drivers; a minor can be charged with a DUI if they operate a motor vehicle with any detectable amount of alcohol in their system. The state does not need to prove impairment or a 0.08% BAC; if there is a trace of alcohol, it is a DUI.
First and second DWI offenses are charged as misdemeanors. Third DWI offenses are charged as third-degree felonies. Penalties increase with each successive conviction.
The West Texas Trial Lawyers, PLLC Advantage
When your driving privileges and your future are on the line, you need proven legal representation. Our team of former prosecutors understands the system that you now face because they once pursued convictions.
Our firm provides aggressive legal representation by investigating every angle of your arrest to build a custom defense tailored to your case, thereby increasing your chances of a favorable outcome.
Message our team online or call (915) 201-1000 for a free case review with an El Paso DUI/DWI defense attorney today.
Trusted by Clients Across West Texas
Real Feedback from Real People We’ve Helped
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“I can't recommend Mr. Alhanna enough. From the very beginning, he was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about my case. He took the time to explain everything clearly, kept me informed, and fought hard for the best possible outcome.”- Brian F.
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“Excellent experience from start to finish! From the first contact, the team demonstrated impeccable professionalism, responding quickly to my inquiries and offering customized solutions that exceeded my expectations.”- George C.
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“Their legal expertise and strategic approach were evident from our very first meeting. The team was always accessible, communicative, and genuinely invested in my case.”- Ashley R.
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“I’m truly grateful for him and his team. If you’re looking for a reliable, professional lawyer in El Paso, especially for a similar case, I highly recommend Mr. Alhanna!”- Elijah V.
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“If you’re looking for a lawyer in El Paso who actually picks up the phone, gets things done, and treats you with respect — Al Hanna is the one.”- Irving M.
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“As soon as he was retained he took over all communication and relieved so much stress. He followed through on getting the matter handled before any charges were brought and walked me through the entire process in a way that made sense.”- Brittany G.
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“I highly recommend Alhanna! He was so easy to work with, moves fast, and gets the job done.”- Oscar D.
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“Adam Setra is the lawyer you want for your criminal defense. He operates with a proactive approach. He kept me well informed on any case updates he recieved. I couldn't have picked a better lawyer.”- Former Client
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“Love this firm, they are very professional and friendly but most importantly they really keep you updated in your case and actually pay attention on every detail.”- Elizabeth C.