Community Supervision
Following a first DWI conviction, most individuals are given community supervision, commonly referred to as probation. Many individuals are fined, and sometimes jail time is involved, though this usually requires special circumstances (such as an open container in the car). Even following a brief confinement in the county jail, many offenders receive community supervision. The details of each person’s community supervision may vary, and should be laid out in full detail following conviction. Community supervision may last 1 – 2 years.
Possible Requirements
Since community supervision will be different for each individual, it is impossible to say what might occur in your case if you are convicted of or plead guilty to DWI. However, some of the more common requirements include:
- Complete a DWI education course (often ordered to be completed within 180 days of conviction)
- Undergo regular drug and alcohol tests
- Maintain steady employment and residence, and report any changes to your community supervision officer
- Maintain a clean record
- Pay all fees in a timely manner
- Complete community service requirements
- Attend a Victim Impact Panel
Depending on the details of your case, you may also need to complete the following less-common requirements:
- Receive counseling through AA or other programs
- Have an ignition interlock device placed in your vehicle
- If you caused an accident while driving while intoxicated, you may be required to provide compensation for damages
These are all possible penalties following a first DWI. Additionally, judges have latitude to impose additional penalties as they see fit.
Contact Us
If you are facing DWI charges, you need experienced legal counsel defending your rights. Call the San Antonio DWI defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Chris S. Barnett at 210-587-6464 today to begin planning your defense.
