Felony DWI

Felony DWI Attorney Serving South Texas

Experienced Defense When the Stakes Are at Their Highest

Criminal Defense
DWI
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A felony DWI charge is far more than a traffic offense—it is a serious criminal allegation that can carry the possibility of prison time, substantial fines, long-term driver’s license consequences, and a permanent felony record.

Whether your case involves multiple prior DWI convictions, intoxication assault, intoxication manslaughter, or another circumstance that elevates the offense, you need experienced legal guidance as early as possible.

At Odefey, Witte, Wall & Villafranca, LLP, Attorney Jordan G. Fries represents individuals facing serious felony DWI charges throughout South Texas. As a former prosecutor and experienced trial attorney, Jordan understands how felony cases are investigated, evaluated, and prosecuted, allowing him to build thoughtful defense strategies tailored to each client’s circumstances.

When Does a DWI Become a Felony?

While many first-time DWI offenses are charged as misdemeanors, Texas law allows certain circumstances to elevate a DWI to a felony offense.

Examples include:

  • A third or subsequent DWI conviction
  • Intoxication Assault
  • Intoxication Manslaughter
  • DWI involving certain prior felony convictions
  • Other aggravating circumstances provided under Texas law

Each situation presents unique legal issues that require careful review of the facts, prior convictions, and available evidence.

Potential Consequences

The consequences of a felony DWI conviction can extend well beyond the courtroom.

Depending on the specific allegations and your criminal history, potential consequences may include:

  • State prison or penitentiary sentence
  • Significant fines
  • Extended driver’s license suspension
  • Ignition interlock requirements
  • Probation or community supervision
  • Permanent felony record
  • Loss of firearm rights in certain circumstances
  • Employment and professional licensing challenges

Because every case is different, it is important to obtain legal advice specific to your situation rather than relying on general information.

Building a Strong Defense

Every felony DWI case deserves an independent review of the evidence.

Defense strategies may involve examining:

  • Whether the initial traffic stop was lawful
  • Officer observations
  • Field sobriety testing
  • Breath or blood testing procedures
  • Blood warrant applications
  • Laboratory analysis
  • Chain of custody
  • Constitutional issues
  • Witness testimony
  • Accident reconstruction, when applicable

No single strategy applies to every case. Effective representation begins with understanding the facts and identifying opportunities to challenge the State’s evidence.

Prosecutorial Experience Matters

Jordan Fries understands felony prosecutions from both sides of the courtroom.

Before entering private practice, he prosecuted criminal cases and worked closely with law enforcement agencies during investigations. That experience provides valuable insight into how felony cases are prepared, evaluated, and presented.

Today, he uses that perspective to advocate for clients facing some of the most serious criminal allegations under Texas law.

Serving Clients Across South Texas

Victoria • Calhoun • Jackson • Goliad • DeWitt • Lavaca • Gonzales • Refugio • Wharton •Matagorda • San Patricio • Nueces Counties

A felony DWI charge should never be faced alone.

If you or a loved one has been charged with felony DWI in South Texas, contact OWWV to discuss your case with Attorney Jordan G. Fries.