Conroe DWI Attorney

The Turnbull Edge: what gives our Montgomery County DWI attorneys an advantage

Most Conroe criminal defense lawyers can point to trial experience and legal expertise, but Turnbull Legal Group is different. Why? Because Ned Turnbull has lived the Texas legal system from both sides of the bench. This isn't just a background detail — it fundamentally changes how we approach your defense.

1. Insider perspective. As a former Chief Prosecutor, Ned knows exactly which arguments will persuade a judge and which ones won't land in the courtroom. He's built the cases prosecutors build, which means he recognizes the weak points in their strategy before they even present them. This prosecutorial insight lets us dismantle their case before trial, often through early motions or settlement negotiations that other attorneys might miss.
2. Deep local court knowledge. We have extensive experience in these very courtrooms — we’re not Houston DWI lawyers flying in for a short weekend. We know the judges' temperaments, their preferences, and how they rule on procedural matters. When you're at the mercy of Montgomery County courts, having an attorney who already knows the bench isn't just convenient — it's a tactical advantage. They know Ned's work. They respect his arguments. That matters.
3. 200+ felony jury trials. Over 25 years and more than 200 felony jury trials, including death penalty cases, means we've handled cases far more complex than yours. This breadth of experience translates to unflappable composure in the courtroom and the ability to adapt strategy when circumstances change. We don't panic under pressure, and we don't settle for mediocre outcomes just to move a case along.

Montgomery County DWI statistics 

In 2024, Conroe saw 94 DWI-related crashes. Law enforcement and prosecutors in Montgomery County aren't lenient on DWI cases, and the court system reflects that attitude. Hundreds of people face DWI charges annually across the county.

Behind those statistics are real consequences. Each accident represents someone's life changed. Each arrest represents a person facing financial penalties, license loss, potential jail time, and a criminal record that follows them for years. DWI isn't treated as a minor traffic offense in Montgomery County — it's prosecuted as a serious crime.

This is why local expertise matters. The judges in Conroe know the prosecutors. The prosecutors have tried countless cases before these judges. There are relationships, precedents, and unwritten expectations that shape how cases are handled. An attorney unfamiliar with Montgomery County courts will be at a disadvantage.

You need someone who knows this system intimately — who understands not just the law, but how it's applied in Conroe courtrooms. That's where Turnbull Legal Group comes in. We've built our practice on deep knowledge of this county, and we use that knowledge to protect your rights.

‍

DWI cases we can fight for you

We provide experienced legal representation for all types of DWI charges in Conroe and Montgomery County, including:

First DWI Offense

A first DWI can feel like your life is over, but the penalties are far from inevitable. Many first-time offenders qualify for deferred adjudication programs or pretrial diversion programs. We fight for options like this while also protecting your driving privileges through the administrative license revocation process. Your goal is to move forward without a permanent conviction on your record, and that's our goal too.

Second DWI Offense

The prosecution takes a markedly different approach to second DWIs in Texas. They'll push harder, offer less leniently, and judges will be skeptical of mitigation arguments. For repeat offenses, aggressive and experienced representation is absolutely essential. You need an attorney who knows how to handle escalated prosecution and counter their aggression with time-tested strategies.

Third DWI Offense

A third DWI automatically becomes a felony in Texas — no exceptions. You're now facing potential prison time measured in years, not months. Felony DWI requires experienced felony trial counsel. We handle these serious cases with the intensity they demand, investigating thoroughly and challenging every element of the prosecution's case.

Felony DWI

Several circumstances elevate a DWI to felony level even for first or second offenses: if your vehicle caused an accident, if someone was injured, or if a child was in the car. These charges demand immediate, aggressive action. We begin investigating the moment you're arrested, preserving evidence and identifying weaknesses before the prosecution builds its case further.

Commercial DWI (CDL DWI)

A DWI for someone holding a CDL isn't just a legal problem — it's a career threatening catastrophe. Commercial drivers charged with DWI face enhanced penalties and mandatory CDL suspension. Beyond the criminal consequences, you're looking at job loss and industry blacklisting. Our goal is to protect both your freedom and your livelihood through every available resource and strategy.

DWI with a Child Passenger

This charge is automatically elevated to felony status. Beyond the legal consequences, prosecutors and judges view these cases through a lens of parental responsibility and child endangerment — which means they will pursue charges zealously, and there may be charges other than DWI on the table. We defend against both the criminal charges and the implicit judgment about your parenting, because protecting your parental rights is part of our strategy.

Underage DWI (DUI)

Because Texas has zero tolerance for any detectable alcohol for minors, drivers under 21 face stricter standards than adults. For young people, a DWI can derail college plans, eliminate financial aid eligibility, and create long-term employment obstacles. DUI and DWI for minors are often the first domino falling in a series of issues. We work to minimize these collateral consequences, fight the charges themselves, and keep young futures on track.

DWI with Drugs

DWI charges based on drug impairment are more complex than alcohol cases. The evidence is often subjective and based on officer observations of "drug recognition expert" evaluations. Blood tests for drugs require interpretation about whether the substance actually caused impairment. We challenge the science and demand proof that goes beyond speculation.

Intoxication Assault

When a DWI results in injury to another person, the charge becomes intoxication assault — a charge that is always a felony. The prosecution will be aggressive, and victim involvement often intensifies courtroom pressure. We investigate the accident thoroughly, challenge causation arguments, and defend you against what amounts to a serious violent crime charge.

Intoxication Manslaughter

This is the most severe DWI-related charge — a felony carrying potential prison sentences of 2–20 years. It requires exhaustive investigation, expert testimony, and courtroom skill at the highest level. We treat these cases with the gravity they deserve, working to either disprove guilt or negotiate the most favorable resolution possible under devastating circumstances.

We also represent clients facing DWI charges in surrounding areas. If you're looking for a Bryan DWI lawyer or are dealing with charges in Brazoria or Harris County, contact us to discuss your situation.

Effective DWI Defenses in Conroe, TX

Our Conroe DWI lawyers develop a strategic defense based on the specifics of your case, which may include challenging:

• Reasonable suspicion for the traffic stop: Was there a valid reason for the police officer to initiate the traffic stop? 
• Probable cause for the DWI arrest: Did the officer have sufficient reason to believe you were intoxicated? 
• Field sobriety test accuracy: We assess factors like officer training and external conditions that might invalidate the results of these tests.
• Breath and blood test results: We scrutinize the handling and administration of these tests, identifying any errors or improper procedures.

We’ll analyze photographic and video evidence, witness testimony, and police reports to help us build a strong case on your behalf.

How to get a DWI dismissed in Texas

The foundation of every DWI prosecution is the initial traffic stop. We examine the officer's basis for pulling you over — did they have reasonable suspicion? Did they follow proper procedures? Officers sometimes initiate stops based on vague or unfounded suspicions, and if we can demonstrate that, the entire case falls apart. This is where many DWI cases are either won or lost before they ever get to trial.

Dissecting probable cause and arrest justification

Just because an officer observed behaviors doesn't mean they had legal grounds to arrest you for DWI. We scrutinize the officer's documentation, video evidence, and field observations to determine whether probable cause actually existed. Sloppy police work at this stage creates opportunities for dismissal.

Exposing field sobriety test limitations

Field sobriety tests — the walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, horizontal nystagmus — are subjective evaluations that depend heavily on the officer's training, the testing conditions, and the suspect's physical state. Medical conditions, footwear, road surfaces, lighting, and officer bias all affect results. We challenge the reliability of these tests and question whether they prove impairment or just prove the officer was watching closely.

Targeting breath and blood test vulnerabilities

Breathalyzers and blood tests are presented as objective science, but they're subject to a litany of errors. We examine calibration records, technician qualifications, maintenance logs, and testing procedures. Chain of custody issues, improper storage, and procedural mistakes can render test results inadmissible. We've successfully challenged tests that prosecutors thought were airtight.

Negotiation and case resolution strategy

Not every DWI case should go to trial, and not every case should result in a conviction. We evaluate the strength of the prosecution's evidence and negotiate strategically with prosecutors. Sometimes dismissal or significant charge reduction is possible before trial. We weigh every option and present you with a realistic assessment so you can make an informed decision.

What to do if you’re arrested for DWI in Conroe

The moments right before and after your arrest are essential to your case. Your decisions leading up to and in the immediate aftermath of the traffic stop can significantly impact your ultimate outcome, so it's important to know your rights and act decisively.

Some of the tests are optional — but understand the consequences

When an officer asks you to perform field sobriety tests (walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, etc.), you have the legal right to decline. These tests are scored subjectively and often used to build the prosecution's case, so refusing them is often a good idea — but it won't prevent arrest if the officer already suspects impairment. 

Stay calm and respectful while protecting yourself

Cooperation with law enforcement means following instructions and providing the required documentation. It does NOT mean volunteering information or having a conversation about where you've been or what you've consumed. Keep interactions brief, non-confrontational, and professional. This composure serves you better than defensiveness or hostility.

Your right to silence is your strongest shield

Every word you say can be used against you in court. The officer will ask about your evening, where you're coming from, what you've had to drink — all designed to establish impairment. Don't engage with these questions. Beyond providing your license and insurance, say simply: "Respectfully, I'm not going to answer questions. I'd like to speak with an attorney." Then stay silent. Don't argue, don't explain, don't negotiate.

Get Turnbull Legal Group involved immediately

Call us the moment you have access to a phone. Early intervention allows us to preserve evidence, request necessary recordings, and protect your rights before statements are recorded or procedures are finalized. Speed matters in DWI defense.

The Texas DWI laws

When you hire Turnbull Legal Group for DWI defense, we make sure you fully understand the legal process, the penalties you're facing, and your options moving forward. There are a few essential things that you should know about the DWI laws in Texas before you do anything. We believe that informed clients make better decisions, so we break down confusing legal jargon and answer all of your questions honestly and transparently.

Penalties for a DWI conviction in Texas

DWI convictions carry consequences that vary dramatically based on several factors: whether it's your first offense or a repeat conviction, your blood alcohol content at the time of arrest, whether anyone was injured, and whether a child was in the vehicle. Understanding what you're facing is the first step in mounting an effective defense.

‍

Enhanced penalties for aggravating circumstances:

A DWI conviction doesn't end when you leave the courtroom. Texas judges frequently impose additional conditions that extend your punishment for years:

• Mandatory DWI education and treatment programs
• Court-ordered community service (sometimes 100+ hours)
• Ignition interlock device installation on your vehicle (prevents starting if alcohol detected)
• Probation lasting anywhere from 2 – 10 years depending on the offense
• Dramatically increased auto insurance premiums for 3 – 5 years post-conviction
• Professional license revocation or suspension 
• Permanent criminal record affecting employment, housing, and background checks

‍

Each case is unique. A judge's sentencing decision depends on your criminal history, the specific facts of your arrest, your BAC level, accident involvement, and whether anyone was injured. These penalties represent what's possible, not what's inevitable. With aggressive, qualified representation, clients often avoid the harshest consequences or eliminate their DWI charges entirely.

Facing DWI charges in Montgomery County? Call the Conroe DWI lawyers at Turnbull today.

Beating your DWI charges demands more than just any DWI lawyer — you need an advocate who knows Montgomery County, who has relationships with the judges and prosecutors, and who will fight relentlessly for your freedom and your future. That's what Turnbull Legal Group provides.

Looking for where to start? Not sure which lawyer is right for your DWI case? The following guides can give you some questions to help you make the right decision. 

• 10 Questions You Should Ask a Texas Criminal Defense Attorney Before Hiring
• The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Texas DWI Attorney

Ready to give your DWI case a tactical advantage? The first step is a free, confidential consultation where we'll evaluate your case, answer your questions, and discuss your options honestly. Call Turnbull Legal Group today at (832) 314-3232 or get in touch with us online to protect your future.