DWI Lawyer in Austin, TX
It's a Friday night in downtown Austin. After dinner and a couple of drinks, you’re pulled over. The lights flash, your heart races, and soon you’re facing a DWI charge. If this scenario sounds familiar—whether for yourself or a loved one—you’re not alone. Every year, many Austinites find themselves in this stressful position, wondering what will happen next and where to turn for effective legal help.
The Law Office of Todd Nickle offers guidance and skilled representation tailored to Austin’s courts and unique legal landscape. Whether this is your first DWI or you have prior charges, there’s no need to face these challenges alone. Our Austin DWI lawyer will guide you through every step, working to secure the best possible outcome.
Contact us today for a free consultation—get experienced help when you need it most.
Real Defense Starts With Real Experience
Get Courtroom Confidence With A Personal touch
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Personalized, Strategic DefenseEvery case is different. We build customized defense strategies and works directly with clients, offering responsive, one-on-one representation.
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Former Prosecutor InsightAfter years of experience at the DA’s office handling everything from felonies to capital murder, Todd Nickle knows how prosecutors think—and how to counter them.
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Board Certified in Criminal Law
As a Texas Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist, Todd Nickle holds a distinction earned by fewer than 10% of attorneys statewide.
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Proven Trial ExperienceWith over 100 jury trials under his belt, Todd Nickle thrives in the courtroom. He’s not afraid to go to trial—and he knows how to win.
DWI vs. DUI in Texas: What’s the Difference?
Many people confuse the terms DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and DUI (Driving Under the Influence), but they’re not the same under Texas law.
Some of the distinctions include:
- DWI commonly applies to adults (21+) operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or when impaired by drugs or alcohol, regardless of BAC.
- DUI in Texas usually refers to minors under 21 driving with any detectable amount of alcohol in their system.
Both charges can have serious consequences, but DWIs carry especially harsh penalties that impact your freedom, finances, and reputation.
Where Are Austin DWI Cases Litigated?
DWI cases in Austin are heard in Travis County courts, including the Travis County Criminal Courts at Law. Cases may also be processed at the Austin Municipal Court, especially for first-time DWI or DUI offenses. Each court has its own rules and procedures—another reason local experience from an Austin criminal defense lawyer is crucial.
Immediate Consequences of a DWI in Austin
Facing a DWI charge in Austin triggers a series of immediate legal and personal challenges. From the moment of arrest, individuals are confronted with actions that can disrupt daily life and create uncertainty about the future. Understanding these initial consequences can help you prepare for the steps ahead as your case moves through the justice system.
Those facing a DWI in Austin typically deal with:
- Arrest and booking with possible jail time until bail is posted
- Immediate driver’s license suspension
- Potential vehicle impoundment
- Court dates that can affect work and family life
While these consequences happen quickly, the decisions made in the hours and days following a DWI arrest can shape the outcome of your case. Seeking guidance from an experienced Austin DWI attorney early on can help you better navigate the legal process and protect your rights moving forward.
Penalties for DWI in Texas
First-Time DWI Offense
- Fine up to $2,000
- Jail time of 3 to 180 days
- License suspension for up to 1 year
- Annual license retention fees ($1,000–$2,000 for 3 years)
Second DWI Offense
- Fine up to $4,000
- Jail time of 1 month to 1 year
- License suspension for up to 2 years
Third (or More) DWI Offense
- Fine up to $10,000
- Prison time of 2 to 10 years
- License suspension for up to 2 years
Other Consequences
- Ignition interlock device required
- Drastic increase in insurance costs
- Permanent criminal record
- Loss of job opportunities and professional licenses
- Damage to personal relationships and reputation
Even a first-time DWI can have ripple effects, while repeat offenses escalate consequences and make defense more complex.
Our FAQ
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 737-215-3408 today!
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Should I hire a local attorney for a case in Williamson County or Travis County?Yes. Every county in Texas has its own way of doing things. A local attorney who knows the Wilco and Austin-area court systems can make a significant difference in how your case is handled and resolved.
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Are you familiar with the local courts in Williamson County (Wilco) and Greater Austin?Yes. We appear regularly in both Williamson County courts and Travis County courts. Our local knowledge of judges, prosecutors, and courtroom procedures helps us build strong, informed defenses for our clients.
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Do you only take cases in Georgetown and Austin?While our offices are in Georgetown and Austin, we handle criminal defense cases across all of Williamson County (Wilco)—including Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Hutto, Liberty Hill, Taylor, and surrounding communities—as well as throughout Travis County, Hays County, and other parts of Central Texas.
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What areas do you serve?We represent clients throughout Williamson County (Wilco) and the Greater Austin Area. Our offices are conveniently located in Georgetown, TX and Austin, TX, but we regularly handle cases across a broad region.
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What evidence is involved in white-collar crime cases?Evidence in white-collar cases often includes extensive documentation like emails, contracts, and financial records. Prosecutors rely on this trail to build their case, which makes challenging the validity or interpretation of the evidence crucial.
What To Do Next: Protect Your Future
If you—or your loved one—has been charged with a DWI in Austin, the decisions you make now matter.
Take these practical steps:
- Contact an experienced Austin DWI attorney immediately.
- Attend all court dates and license hearings.
- Consider counseling or support if alcohol is an ongoing issue.
- Document any relevant details about your arrest and interactions with law enforcement.
The Law Office of Todd Nickle stands ready to help you navigate every phase of your DWI case with skilled legal representation and a commitment to protecting your rights and future.
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“I definitely feel like I got fair representation and would recommend him to anyone.”- Dylan A.
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“Todd was a great lawyer. I hired him for a case first time 3 years ago and he provided me with a good outcome. Since then, I have personally had to use him 2 more times, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with my results.”- Kazim M.
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“He worked really hard and ultimately got all the cases dismissed. Our kid is doing great now and we are so thrilled to have this behind us.”- K.E.
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“Todd fought hard and won a dismissal of my case. We knew it would be an uphill battle but he never quit.”- Former Client
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“Dealing with a federal charge as a court appointment attorney, his advice was sound and in my best interest overall. Though he wasn’t a lawyer I hired, he still treated me with respect and walked me through the whole process flawlessly.”- Teryn S.
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“He was always very responsive to me while following up proactively with all parties to bring the case to a close. Highly recommend Todd!”- Peter T.