What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony DWI charge?

Misdemeanor and felony DWI charges in Texas differ in their severity and punishments. A misdemeanor DWI charge is a Class B or C misdemeanor. Class B misdemeanors are punishable by a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail. A Class C misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of up to $500. If an individual has two or more DWI convictions, the charge can be elevated to a Class A misdemeanor, which can carry a penalty of a fine of up to $4,000 and/or up to one year in jail. A felony DWI charge is a much more serious offense and can be punished with prison time. Generally, a felony DWI is charged when an individual has three or more DWI convictions. A felony DWI charge can result in a prison sentence of two to 10 years and up to a $10,000 fine. In addition to fines and jail time, a misdemeanor or felony DWI conviction can also result in an individual having their driver’s license suspended for up to two years and having to complete an alcohol education program. Overall, misdemeanor DWI charges are less serious than felony DWI charges and are typically punishable by fines and/or jail time. Felony DWI charges, however, are more serious and can result in prison time. Both charges can also result in other consequences such as the suspension of a driver’s license and the requirement of completing an alcohol education program.

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What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony DWI charge?

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