Drug-Related DWIs in Texas
A drug-related DWI is just as serious as an alcohol-related offense in Texas, but proving impairment isn’t as straightforward. Unlike alcohol-related DWIs, drug-related DWIs don’t rely on a BAC test. Instead, drug-related charges rely on officer observations, field sobriety tests, and blood or urine samples — all of which can be flawed. Medications like prescription painkillers, anxiety medications, and even sleep aids can lead to a DWI arrest, even if taken as directed.
The challenge for prosecutors is proving that the drug actually impaired your ability to drive, not just that it was present in your system. Some drugs remain detectable for days or weeks after use, making test results unreliable indicators of intoxication at the time of arrest. If you've been charged with a drug-related DWI, the right legal strategy can make all the difference in your case.
Penalties for Drug-Related DWI in Texas
A drug-related DWI carries the same penalties as an alcohol-related DWI, but proving impairment can be more complex.
Additional consequences:
- Mandatory drug education programs
- Higher insurance rates or policy cancellations
- Criminal record affecting employment and housing
- Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
How We Fight Drug-Related DWI Charges
An arrest does not mean an automatic conviction. At Turnbull Legal Group, we use proven defense strategies to challenge the charges against you.
Challenging the Traffic Stop
Police officers must have a valid reason to pull you over. If there was no probable cause, we can suppress evidence and dismiss the case.
Exposing Flaws in Field Sobriety Tests
Drug-related DWI arrests often rely on field sobriety tests, which are highly unreliable and can be influenced by medical conditions, fatigue, or even nervousness. We challenge faulty test administration and inaccurate officer conclusions.
Questioning Drug Test Results
Unlike alcohol tests, there is no legal limit for drugs in Texas, and many substances stay in your system long after their effects wear off. We challenge the accuracy of blood or urine tests and question whether the drugs detected actually caused impairment.
Investigating Police Conduct
Officers must follow strict procedures during a DWI arrest. If they violated your rights, failed to obtain proper consent for a blood test, or made procedural errors, we use that to fight for case dismissal.
Negotiating Reduced Charges or Dismissal
If a complete dismissal is not possible, we work to reduce charges to a lesser offense or secure alternative sentencing, such as probation, deferred adjudication, or pretrial diversion programs.
Our Approach to Fighting a Drug-Related DWI Charge
Fighting a drug-related DWI requires an aggressive, detail-oriented defense. At Turnbull Legal Group, we analyze every piece of evidence to build a strong case.
Free Consultation
We begin with a comprehensive case review, explaining your legal options and possible defense strategies.
Investigating Every Detail
We examine police reports, drug test results, dashcam footage, and officer statements to identify flaws and inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.
Strategic Negotiations
We negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges, challenge unreliable drug test evidence, and explore alternative sentencing options.
Trial Preparation
We are fully prepared to take your case to trial and challenge the prosecution’s evidence, field sobriety tests, and officer testimony if necessary.
The 15-Day Rule: Don’t Lose Your License Without a Fight
After a DWI arrest, you have only 15 days to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to fight automatic license suspension. If you miss this deadline, your license will be suspended — even before your case goes to court.
Our team acts fast to file your ALR hearing request and fights to keep your driving privileges intact. The sooner you reach out, the more options you have.
A Strong Defense Can Make All the Difference
A DWI conviction can follow you for years. You only have 15 days to fight your license suspension. Act now — contact Turnbull Legal Group today for a free consultation.

