Houston DWI Lawyer Sees A New Approach To DWI Prosecution
The Harris County District Attorney's Office is considering a progressive approach to the way that first time DWI offenders are prosecuted. The plan being considered is to grant a pretrial diversion to those charged with their first DWI. The program would spare the person from having a conviction for the rest of their lives if they successfully complete the program.
As a lawyer that routinely sees the effects of a DWI conviction I applaud this approach by the District Attorney's office. Most of the people that we assist with a DWI arrest are first time offenders. As I have stated on this blog the consequences of a DWI conviction can seriously impact a person's life. This new policy will help countless people in Harris County.
This decision by the Harris County District Attorney, Pat Lykos, is a departure from her earlier proposals that seemed to be politically motivated. Conversely, I suspect this approach will cause M.A.D.D, and other DWI zealots to adamantly oppose this approach that has proven to be effective in other jurisdictions. The zealots will direct the public to the numbers of DWI fatalities in Texas, but will not admit that the methods that are currently being used to prosecute DWI cases are not working. Thus, a fresh approach is to be commended.
If you have questions regarding a DWI/DUI in the Houston, Harris County area please contact our law firm at (713) 242-1779 or click here to visit our website.
Repeat criminal offenders represent the greatest risk to our society, and DWI is no exception. Habitual drunk driving must be dealt with harshly - I believe they have forfeited their right to operate a motor vehicle in our streets and highways. A distinction, therefore, should be made between the first-time offender, and habitual drunk drivers who are unwilling or unable to learn from their past mistakes.
1st offense DWI should have their D/L suspended. Second and subsequent offenses should get jail time.