Waco Driving While License Invalid (DWLI) Attorneys

Helping Clients Across McLennan, Comal, Hayes and Guadalupe Counties

Our Waco driving while license invalid (DWLI) lawyers have repeatedly seen people ignore this charge, only to end up facing serious consequences that they did not expect. Why? Because if you simply plead guilty and accept a conviction, this triggers more surcharges and additional license suspension. 

We know that just because your license is invalid, that doesn't mean that suddenly your kids don't need to be taken to school. A driver with a DWLI on their record might choose to continue to drive because they are faced with the overwhelming need to keep up with obligations, but this can do more harm over time.

Get the help you need to challenge DWLI charges in McLennan, Comal, Hayes and Guadalupe Counties. Contact us online or call (254) 237-5602 for a free consultation today.

What are the Penalties for Driving Without a License in Texas?

DWLI stands for “driving while license is invalid,” and while it may not seem like a serious crime compared to a DWI charge, the penalties are costly. A DWLI charge is a Class C misdemeanor that is punishable by a fine of up to $500 and will result in a criminal conviction.

One of the significant problems associated with DWLI charges, when they are not taken seriously, is that they can lead to additional and lasting issues with fines and license suspension.

If you are caught driving with a DWLI charge, you can get arrested again, resulting in additional surcharges and lengthened license suspension. The fines add up, creating a vicious cycle that needs to be stopped for a driver to experience any relief or hope for a future that includes a valid driver’s license.

What are the Potential Defenses to a Driving While License Invalid (DWLI) Charge?

Several defenses can be used in a Driving While License Invalid (DWLI) case, including the claim of not knowing about the suspension or revocation of your license. This could occur due to issues like not receiving notice from the DMV or clerical errors. Another defense is challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove that your license was actually invalid at the time of the offense, potentially leading to the dismissal of charges.

Other defenses may include proving that your license was suspended or revoked for improper reasons, such as errors in court reporting or a minor violation. Additionally, if you had a valid license or were using an alternative form of identification mistaken for an invalid license, this could serve as a valid defense to DWLI charges.

What is the Process of Defending a DWLI Charge?

If you are charged with driving without a valid license in Texas, the legal process typically involves several key steps:

1. Arrest or Citation If you are caught driving without a valid license, you may be issued a citation or arrested. During this step, it is important to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement.
2. Arraignment The next step is your arraignment, where you will appear in court to hear the charges against you and enter a plea. During this hearing, you may also be informed of your right to legal counsel.
3. Investigation Your attorney will investigate the circumstances of your case, including whether your license was properly suspended or if there were any errors in the process.
4. Negotiations If there are grounds for dismissal or a reduced charge, your attorney will negotiate with the prosecution to reach a favorable resolution, such as reduced fines or penalties.
5. Trial If a settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to trial. Your attorney will represent you in court and present a strong defense to seek a dismissal or reduced penalty.
6. Post-Conviction If you are convicted, your attorney can help you explore options for appealing the decision, reducing the penalty, or reinstating your driving privileges.

Call our Waco DWLI attorneys at Milam & Fanning, PLLC at (254) 237-5602 or contact us online today. Also serving clients in Lorena!

Reinstating Your Driver’s License After a DWLI Charge

If your license has been suspended or revoked due to a DWLI conviction, it may be possible to reinstate your driving privileges after a certain period of time or after fulfilling specific requirements. A Waco driving while license invalid attorney can help guide you through the process of license reinstatement, which may involve:

• Paying fines or fees: You may need to pay outstanding fines or fees to the DMV or court before your license can be reinstated.
• Completing a driver’s education course: In some cases, completing a driver’s education or defensive driving course may be required.
• Proving financial responsibility: If your license was suspended for lack of insurance, you may need to provide proof of financial responsibility to the DMV.

Contact Our DWLI Attorney Today

We can help. Our Waco DWLI attorneys have pulled hundreds of clients out of the driving while license invalid black hole. We will handle all aspects of your court case. At the same time, we will work with you and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to get your driving privileges restored. Sometimes, this means an occupational license. Sometimes, it means negotiating a payment plan with DPS. Whatever the solution is, our criminal defense attorneys will work with you to figure it out.

Call our Waco DWLI attorneys at Milam & Fanning, PLLC at (254) 237-5602 or contact us online today. Serving clients in McLennan, Comal, Hayes and Guadalupe Counties County!