Top DUI-DWI Lawyers in Houston, Texas

DUI and DWI charges in Houston carry steep penalties and lasting consequences. Harris County leads Texas in alcohol-related crashes and aggressively prosecutes impaired driving cases. Texas law gives you only 15 days after arrest to request an ALR hearing or risk automatic license suspension. That tight deadline makes early legal help critical. Use the attorney profiles below to compare experience, case results, and fee structures.

Our team evaluates Houston DUI Lawyers on credentials, track record, and client reviews to help you find a good fit.

  • Portfolio strength and documented client case studies
  • Platform certifications and verified technical expertise
  • Reporting transparency and ongoing client communication
  • Client reviews, project retention, and satisfaction rates
  • Aggregate satisfaction signals from independent sources

Rankings are determined independently based on public information and editorial research.

Best-Rated Houston DWI Attorneys with Trial & ALR Hearing Records

Screenshot of the Thiessen Law Firm Website
733 E 12th 1/2 St, Houston, TX 77008, USA

Thiessen Law Firm is a Houston DWI defense firm led by Mark Thiessen, America's only triple board-certified DWI attorney. The firm has won over 100 not guilty verdicts and dismissed 1,000+ cases. Mark defeated a quadruple intoxication manslaughter charge. He's the only DWI lawyer in the Top 100 Texas Super Lawyers (2019-2023). Clients get 24/7 direct access to their legal team. The firm handles complex DWI cases throughout Texas.

Screenshot of the Ayson Law Firm Website
1235 N Loop W # 1020, Houston, TX 77008, USA

Ayson Law Firm defends Houston residents against DWI and criminal charges. Attorney Brian Ayson brings over 10 years of courtroom experience. He's earned Super Lawyers recognition and wins not-guilty verdicts regularly. The firm handles drug crimes, assault, and personal injury cases. They offer free consultations and work on contingency fees. Brian has successfully dismissed felony charges and secured pretrial diversions. Clients praise his responsive communication and fair pricing.

Screenshot of the Butler Law Firm - The Houston DWI Lawyer Website

Butler Law Firm focuses 100% on DWI defense in Houston. Jim Butler brings over 30 years of experience and thousands of successful cases. He's Board Certified in DUI Law and an ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist. Most cases get dismissed before trial. The firm offers free evaluations and payment plans. Butler has won cases with very high blood alcohol levels.

Screenshot of the Ayson Law Firm Website
1235 N Loop W # 1020, Houston, TX 77008, USA

Ayson Law Firm handles DWI, criminal defense, and personal injury cases in Houston. Attorney Brian Ayson has over 10 years of experience defending clients throughout Harris County. The firm offers no-cost consultations and handles personal injury claims on a contingency basis. They handle felony DWI, intoxication assault, and ALR hearings. The practice serves Houston neighborhoods, including Memorial, Midtown, and Greater Uptown. Clients get personal attention from experienced trial lawyers.

Screenshot of the Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. Website
2019 Washington Ave Suite 300, Houston, TX 77007, USA

Tyler Flood & Associates leads Harris County in DWI case wins since 2018. This Houston firm features board-certified attorneys, an in-house forensic laboratory, and over 20 years of trial experience. Tyler Flood holds the ACS-CHAL Lawyer-Scientist designation and owns Texas's only attorney-operated blood alcohol laboratory. The team handles DWI, drug charges, and serious criminal cases 24/7. They offer free consultations and portable breath testers to promote road safety.

Screenshot of the Benavides Law Group - Eric Benavides Website

Eric Benavides is a criminal defense lawyer in Houston, TX, who has defended clients in Harris County courts since 2008. He handles DWI, drug charges, assault, domestic violence, sex crimes, theft, and juvenile cases throughout the Greater Houston area.

Benavides earned the ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist designation, held by only 110+ attorneys in the U.S. He is also certified to perform NHTSA Standardized Field Sobriety Tests and received the TCDLA DWI Trial Warrior Award in 2018. Named a Texas Super Lawyer, he personally handles every case without passing it to junior associates. Consultations are free, and the firm speaks Spanish.

Screenshot of the Ayson Law Firm - Houston DWI Lawyer Website
1235 North Loop West suite 1020, Houston, TX, USA

Ayson Law Firm offers aggressive DWI defense across Houston. Attorney Brian Ayson, a Super Lawyers honoree, fights all criminal charges from minor offenses to serious crimes. The firm handles DWI cases, drug crimes, and manslaughter with proven results. Their personal injury practice successfully recovers compensation for car accident victims harmed by negligence. Members of the Houston Bar Association and Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, they provide individualized legal strategies for clients throughout Harris County.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC Website
1100 W 23rd St Suite 220, Houston, TX 77008, USA

Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC defends criminal cases throughout Houston and Harris County. Joseph Ruiz has tried over 350 jury trials in nearly 20 years of practice. The firm handles DWI, domestic violence, drug charges, and federal crimes. Located in Houston Heights, they offer free consultations and speak Spanish. Ruiz is recognized by Super Lawyers and maintains reasonable fees for exceptional defense.

Screenshot of the Trichter, Legrand, Houlton & White Law Firm Website

Houston DWI Lawyer specializes in drunk driving defense across Texas. With over 40 years combined experience, they've won thousands of cases. Gary Trichter was Texas's first certified DWI Specialist. The National College of DUI Defense recognizes their expertise. They defend cases in all counties throughout Texas. The firm offers free consultations and payment plans. Their team focuses exclusively on DWI defense to secure dismissals.

Screenshot of the Edward Law Group Website
6671 Southwest Fwy #442, Houston, TX 77074, USA

Edward Law Group specializes in criminal defense, DWI, family law, and personal injury in Houston, Texas. Their attorneys have secured over 2,100 case dismissals across felony and misdemeanor charges. Edward Okwueze was named Top 40 Under 40 by the National Trial Lawyers Association and listed among the top 10 attorneys by the American Institute of Criminal Lawyers. The firm handles auto accidents, drug crimes, divorce proceedings, and child custody matters.

Screenshot of the The Martinez Law Firm - Houston DWI Lawyer Website

Herman Martinez is a leading Houston DWI and criminal defense attorney. He offers expert legal defense for DWI, drug crimes, theft, and violent crimes. With decades of experience, his Houston-based law firm secures favorable outcomes. Martinez earns high ratings for his knowledge, advocacy, and tailored defense strategies.

Screenshot of the Greco Neyland, PC Website
701 N Post Oak Rd #425, Houston, TX 77024, USA

Greco Neyland, PC is a criminal defense law firm in Houston, TX, approved by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. The team includes former prosecutors who understand how the other side builds its case — an edge they use for every client's defense. They handle DWI, drug charges, assault, gun charges, theft, federal crimes, and more across Harris County and throughout Texas. The firm has helped over 5,000 clients and holds a 4.9-star rating based on 85+ Google reviews. Free consultations are available 24/7 with no hidden fees.

Screenshot of the Horak Law Website
25911 Oak Ridge Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380, USA

Horak Law is a premier Houston legal firm specializing in family law and criminal defense. Board-certified attorney Matthew Horak provides strategic representation across Texas. The firm handles complex legal challenges with extensive courtroom experience.

Screenshot of the Jack B. Carroll & Associates Website
1419 Franklin St, Houston, TX 77002, USA

Jack B. Carroll & Associates has provided Houston criminal defense representation for over 30 years. Board-certified attorneys specialize in sex crimes, DWI, drug offenses, and theft cases. The firm secured hundreds of dismissals and not-guilty verdicts. They handle record sealing and expungement services. Their downtown Houston location serves clients across Texas.

Screenshot of the Law Offices of Charles T. Ganz Website
5300 Memorial Dr #750, Houston, TX 77007, USA

The Law Offices of Charles T. Ganz provides criminal defense throughout Texas. Charles Ganz has over 20 years of trial experience in 50+ counties. He has earned multiple awards, including recognition as a Texas Super Lawyer. The firm handles DUI, drug crimes, sex offenses, and Title IX cases. Clients receive Ganz's personal phone number for direct access. He's known for securing not guilty verdicts and case dismissals.

Screenshot of the Benavides Law Firm Website
533 Studewood St, Houston, TX 77007, USA

Benavides Law Firm provides Houston traffic violation defense with over 20 years of experience. Attorney Kelly Benavides defends against speeding tickets, reckless driving, and DUI charges. Member of the National College for DUI Defense with 10.0 Superb Avvo Rating. Free consultations available to protect your driving privileges and criminal record throughout Texas.

Screenshot of the Collin Evans Law, PLLC Website
917 Franklin St suite 300, Houston, TX 77002, USA

Collin Evans Law, PLLC delivers criminal defense representation in Houston, Texas. Attorney Collin Evans, named a Texas Super Lawyer, handles DWI, drug charges, assault, and domestic violence cases. The firm provides 24/7 legal support and honest case evaluations. They serve clients across Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Galveston, Brazoria, and Waller Counties. Collin Evans Law specializes in case dismissals and record clearing.

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Screenshot of the Houston DWI Lawyer Clyde W. Burleson, P.C. Website

Clyde W. Burleson is a Houston DWI attorney and former Assistant District Attorney. He served as chief prosecutor for the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Burleson completed the same training courses required for police officers. He has tried hundreds of DWI cases in Houston courts. The firm handles administrative license hearings and criminal defense. Free consultations available for Texas DWI charges.

Screenshot of the M. Neufeld Law Website
700 Galveston St, Conroe, TX 77301, USA

M. Neufeld Law defends criminal cases in Conroe and Montgomery County, Texas. Attorney Matthew Neufeld has over 10 years of trial experience in DWI, assault, and drug cases. He attended the TCDLA Trial Lawyer College and completed training in forensic chromatography. The firm handles THC oil charges, expunctions, and orders of nondisclosure. Neufeld also represents clients in Walker County and Harris County. The office is available seven days a week for consultations at no charge.

Screenshot of the Hochglaube & DeBorde, PC Website
3515 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77004, USA

Hochglaube & DeBorde provides aggressive criminal defense representation in Houston, Texas. Their attorneys bring over 60 years of combined experience to cases ranging from drug crimes to white-collar offenses. The firm is known for successful trial outcomes and strategic defense approaches. They offer free case evaluations and provide 24/7 virtual access for clients facing serious criminal charges throughout Texas.

Screenshot of the Johnson, Johnson & Baer, P.C. Website
1017 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77008, USA

Johnson, Johnson & Baer is a Houston DWI defense firm with over 90 years of combined legal experience. Lead attorney Dane Johnson is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and holds the rare ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist designation. He has tried over 200 jury trials, most involving DWI charges.

The firm defends clients facing first-time DWI, felony DWI, underage DUI, intoxication assault, and drug-related driving offenses. They limit their caseload to give each client direct attention from a partner. Free case reviews are available around the clock.

Screenshot of the Krieger & Tillinger Website
215 E Galveston St, League City, TX 77573, USA

Krieger and Tillinger represent clients in criminal defense and family law cases throughout Galveston County. Attorneys Dan Krieger, Christina Tillinger, and Kindel Jenkins handle DWI, assault, divorce, and child custody matters. The firm serves Harris, Galveston, and Brazoria counties with aggressive legal representation. They also provide expunction services for criminal record clearing.

Screenshot of the The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates Website

Tad Nelson & Associates are Houston DWI defense lawyers with over 30 years of experience. Attorney Tad Nelson is Board Certified in Criminal Law and holds credentials as an ACS/CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist. Partner Amber Spurlock is a military veteran and Super Lawyer. Both attorneys are former prosecutors who have handled thousands of DWI cases. They offer free consultations and aggressive trial strategies for clients in Harris County.

Screenshot of the The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates Website
1221 Studewood St 107 ste 107, Houston, TX 77008, USA

Tad Nelson & Associates is a criminal defense and family law firm serving Houston and Galveston. Board-certified attorney Tad Nelson brings over 30 years of courtroom experience and has participated in more than 500 jury trials. Both he and Amber Spurlock hold rare ACS/CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist credentials. Former prosecutors, they've earned a perfect 10 AVVO rating. The firm offers free consultations from offices in Houston, League City, and Galveston.

Screenshot of the Downey Law Firm Website
2814 Hamilton St, Houston, TX 77004, USA

Houston criminal defense attorney Christopher Downey leads the Downey Law Firm with more than 25 years of experience in state and federal courts. He is a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist and former felony trial prosecutor with the Harris County District Attorney's Office.

The firm handles white-collar crimes, fraud, drug charges, DWI, firearms offenses, violent crimes, and federal investigations. Downey has served as counsel in nationally recognized cases, including matters tied to Enron, USA Gymnastics, Astroworld, and the January 6th Incident. He has appeared as a legal analyst on MSNBC and Court TV. Free consultations are available.

Screenshot of the Chris Allen Law Office Website

Chris Allen and Bill Pattillo are Montgomery County criminal defense attorneys with 45+ years of combined experience. Based in Conroe, they handle DWI, drug crimes, and juvenile offenses throughout Texas. Their services include expunctions and non-disclosure petitions. The firm serves Conroe, The Woodlands, and nearby areas with aggressive defense strategies and free initial consultations.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Scott D. Reiner, PLLC Website

Scott D. Reiner is a Houston attorney handling family law, criminal defense, and probate matters near the Harris County courthouses. Licensed since 2014, he manages divorce, child custody, estate planning, and criminal cases with personalized attention. Clients praise his responsive communication and effective courtroom advocacy. The firm offers free consultations and assists with emergency interventions, guardianship proceedings, and will preparation throughout the Houston area.

Screenshot of the The Law Offices of Ned Barnett Website
8441 Gulf Fwy #210, Houston, TX 77017, USA

Ned Barnett is a board-certified Houston criminal defense attorney. He defends clients facing DWI charges, sex crimes, drug offenses, and federal cases. Barnett has practiced in Houston since 1987 as both a prosecutor and a defense lawyer. He's certified in breath test operations and field sobriety testing. His firm serves Harris County and the surrounding Texas counties. Super Lawyers has recognized him since 2015. Initial consultations cost nothing.

Screenshot of the Law Office of Greg Tsioros Website
2016 Main St STE 102, Houston, TX 77002, USA

The Law Office of Greg Tsioros defends clients facing criminal charges in Houston and surrounding counties. Attorney Greg Tsioros is a former Harris County prosecutor who handles DWI, drug offenses, and felonies. He serves Brazoria, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, and Montgomery Counties. His background as a prosecutor helps him anticipate the state's approach. Clients receive affordable payment plans and no-cost consultations. The firm operates in Texas state and federal courts.

Screenshot of the Mayr Law, P.C. Website
5300 Memorial Dr #750, Houston, TX 77007, USA

Mayr Law P.C. is Houston's premier criminal defense firm led by Board Certified Attorney Brent Mayr. Named to Texas Super Lawyers for 10 consecutive years, Brent handles federal crimes, DWI cases, and violent offenses. As a Harvard Law School faculty member, he brings 20+ years of trial experience. The firm offers free initial consultations throughout Texas.

Screenshot of the Jon Stephenson Website
111 W 15th St, Houston, TX 77008, USA

Jon Stephenson Law provides criminal defense services in Houston, Texas. The firm's founder is board-certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Jon defends clients against DWI, white-collar crimes, and drug offense charges. His aggressive defense approach comes from his experience as a former Harris County prosecutor. The firm offers free consultations and represents clients in both state and federal courts.

Screenshot of the Jose Ceja Website
2211 Norfolk St #735, Houston, TX 77098, USA

Ceja Law Firm PLLC is a Houston criminal defense and personal injury firm led by former prosecutor Jose Ceja. With nearly 100 jury trials under his belt, Jose secures dismissals, reduced charges, and acquittals for DWI, drug crimes, and assault cases. The firm has offices in Houston and Pasadena. Recognized by Houstonia Magazine as a top Houston lawyer, they offer free consultations for both criminal and injury cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a DWI lawyer cost in Houston?

Most Houston DWI attorneys charge flat fees. First-offense cases without trial typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000. Cases that go to trial can run $10,000 to $20,000 or more. Some attorneys charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $550. Many firms offer free initial consultations and payment plans.

What are the penalties for a first DWI in Texas?

A first DWI is a Class B misdemeanor. Penalties include up to $2,000 in fines and 3 to 180 days in jail. Your license may be suspended for up to one year. Texas also imposes additional state fines of $3,000 to $6,000. If your BAC was 0.15 or higher, the charge bumps to a Class A misdemeanor with steeper penalties.

What is the 15-day ALR deadline in Houston?

You have 15 days after a DWI arrest to request an ALR hearing. ALR stands for Administrative License Revocation. This is a civil process separate from your criminal case. If you miss the deadline, your license is automatically suspended after 40 days. An experienced attorney can use the ALR hearing to challenge evidence and build your criminal defense.

Can I get a DWI dismissed in Harris County?

Dismissals are possible but depend on the facts. Common defense strategies include challenging the traffic stop, questioning breathalyzer calibration, and contesting field sobriety test procedures. Harris County also offers pre-trial intervention programs for some first-time offenders. A Board Certified DWI attorney can evaluate whether your case has grounds for dismissal or reduction.

What is Texas's implied consent law?

Texas requires all licensed drivers to submit to chemical testing when suspected of DWI. Refusing a breath or blood test triggers an automatic license suspension of 180 days for a first refusal. During no-refusal weekends, which Harris County runs on major holidays, officers obtain rapid warrants for blood draws. Refusal alone does not prevent prosecution.

What happens if I get a second or third DWI in Texas?

Penalties escalate sharply with each offense. A second DWI carries fines up to $4,000 and 30 days to one year in jail. A third DWI is a third-degree felony with up to $10,000 in fines and 2 to 10 years in prison. Repeat offenders also face longer license suspensions and mandatory ignition interlock devices.

Does Texas have DWI checkpoints?

No. Texas does not allow DWI checkpoints. Police must have reasonable suspicion of a traffic violation or criminal activity before stopping a vehicle. However, Harris County frequently runs no-refusal operations during holidays and large events. During these periods, officers can quickly obtain warrants to compel blood tests from drivers who refuse.

Types of DWI Cases in Houston

First-Offense DWI. The most common DWI charge in Harris County. Even a first offense can result in jail time, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. Harris County courts sometimes allow first-time offenders to serve jail time on weekends.

DWI with High BAC (0.15+). A BAC of 0.15 or higher elevates a first offense to a Class A misdemeanor. Fines double, and a mandatory ignition interlock may apply. Defense attorneys often challenge BAC results by questioning equipment calibration and testing procedures.

Felony DWI (Third Offense or More). A third DWI is prosecuted as a third-degree felony in Harris County District Court. Penalties include state prison time. These cases require attorneys with serious trial experience and knowledge of felony court procedures.

DWI with Child Passenger. Driving intoxicated with a child under 15 is a state jail felony. Penalties include up to two years in a state jail facility and fines up to $10,000. Child Protective Services may also get involved.

Intoxication Assault. Causing serious injury while driving intoxicated is a third-degree felony. Recent Texas legislation has increased penalties for these offenses. Victims often pursue separate civil claims for damages.

Intoxication Manslaughter. Causing a death while intoxicated is a second-degree felony. The 2025 Texas legislative session upgraded cases involving multiple victims to first-degree felony charges. These cases carry prison sentences of up to life.

Prescription Drug DWI. Texas law covers impairment from any substance, not just alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and illegal substances all qualify. These cases often hinge on expert testimony about impairment levels.

How to Choose a DWI Lawyer in Houston

Check for Board Certification in DWI defense. Texas is one of the few states that offers Board Certification in DWI law. This credential signals deep specialization. Only a small number of Texas attorneys hold this certification.

Ask about Harris County court experience. Houston's DWI cases are heard across multiple County Criminal Courts in Harris County. Each court has different judges, prosecutors, and tendencies. An attorney who regularly practices in these courts knows what to expect.

Evaluate their trial record. Many DWI lawyers negotiate pleas without ever going to trial. Ask how many DWI jury trials they have handled and their outcomes. A strong trial record gives your attorney leverage in negotiations.

Understand the fee structure upfront. Get clear answers on whether fees are flat or hourly. Ask what the fee covers and what costs extra, such as expert witnesses or trial preparation. Compare at least two or three attorneys before deciding.

Ask about ALR hearing experience. The ALR hearing is a separate proceeding that many attorneys treat as an afterthought. A good DWI lawyer uses the ALR hearing strategically to preserve your license and gather evidence for the criminal case.

What Affects DWI Case Outcomes in Houston

DWI case results in Houston vary widely based on several factors. BAC level at arrest is a major factor. Cases near the 0.08 threshold are easier to challenge than those well above it. Prior criminal history also plays a significant role. First-time offenders generally have more options, including pre-trial diversion programs.

The strength of the traffic stop matters. If officers lacked reasonable suspicion, evidence may be suppressed. Breathalyzer and blood test procedures must follow strict protocols. Errors in testing can weaken the prosecution's case.

Harris County's court system processes a high volume of DWI cases. The assigned court and judge can influence outcomes. Some courts are more receptive to diversion programs. Others take a harder line on repeat offenders. An attorney familiar with Harris County courts can advise on realistic expectations for your specific situation.