San Marcos DWI Defense Lawyer, Serving Hays County
If you have been arrested for driving while intoxicated in San Marcos, Kyle, Buda, Wimberley, or anywhere in Hays County, your case moves through the Hays County court system along the Interstate 35 corridor between Austin and San Antonio. Misdemeanor DWI charges are generally heard in the Hays County Courts at Law (Court at Law No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3) at the Hays County Government Center, 712 S. Stagecoach Trail in San Marcos. Felony DWI matters, such as a third or subsequent offense, intoxication assault, or intoxication manslaughter, are heard in the county's District Courts. Unlike some Texas counties that split prosecution between a separate County Attorney (misdemeanors) and a District Attorney (felonies), Hays County prosecutes criminal cases through one office: the Hays County Criminal District Attorney's Office, which handles both misdemeanor and felony DWI prosecutions. San Marcos is home to Texas State University and a heavily traveled stretch of I-35, and local agencies run active DWI enforcement along that corridor and around the downtown square. Understanding how the Hays County courts and prosecutors actually operate is part of deciding who to hire.
DWI Practice Areas We Handle in Hays County
Lance Kennedy Law defends DWI and closely related charges in Hays County, including:
Our closest office to the San Marcos courthouse is in downtown Austin at 111 Congress Avenue, Suite 500, Austin, TX 78701, roughly a 30-to-35-minute drive south on I-35 to the Hays County courthouse, about 30 miles. Call (737) 324-7540 to speak with our team about a Hays County DWI charge.
Court Logistics in Hays County
Trying to figure out where to park, when to arrive, and what happens at your first setting? Our full Hays County courthouse guide walks through directions, court settings, and what to expect on your court date.
Free Hays County DWI Guide
For a deeper, plain-English walkthrough of how DWI cases move through this county, request our Hays County DWI book (this guide is in production; check back for availability).
Frequently Asked Questions: San Marcos & Hays County DWI
Where will my San Marcos DWI case be heard?
Most first- and second-offense DWI charges are misdemeanors and are generally heard in the Hays County Courts at Law at the Hays County Government Center in San Marcos. A third or subsequent DWI, and offenses like intoxication assault, are felonies heard in the Hays County District Courts.
Who prosecutes DWI cases in Hays County?
DWI cases in Hays County, both misdemeanor and felony, are prosecuted by the Hays County Criminal District Attorney's Office. This differs from Texas counties that route misdemeanor DWIs to a separate County Attorney.
Is a first DWI a misdemeanor in Hays County?
Under Texas law, a first-offense DWI is generally a Class B misdemeanor and a second offense is generally a Class A misdemeanor, both heard in the County Courts at Law. A third or subsequent DWI is a felony heard in District Court.
How long do I have to protect my license after a Hays County DWI arrest?
Under Texas law, you generally have 15 days from the date of your suspension notice to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. Missing that deadline can lead to an automatic suspension, so it is worth acting quickly.
I attend Texas State; can a DWI affect my record?
A DWI charge and any resulting conviction become part of your criminal record and can carry consequences beyond the courtroom. We can explain how a Hays County DWI charge may affect your specific situation and what options may be available; we never promise a particular outcome.
Charged with DWI in San Marcos or Hays County? Talk to us today.
I appreciate his compassion and proactive strategy that got my son the best possible outcome.
“Lance took the time to talk to me explained the process and scenarios, he answered all my questions I felt completely confident he was the one we needed to represent my son.”
- Jenny B.
I highly recommend Lance for your legal needs.
“Lance Kennedy Law provided excellent service when I needed legal representation for a family member. Their communication was prompt, keeping me up to date on our case.”
- Sandy S.
All in all, I’d give him a 10/10! Great job!
“He was very professional, answered all my questions in a timely matter. Even on the same day”
We understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming and stressful. As dedicated federal criminal defense attorney with years of experience, I am committed to providing personalized legal counsel for your defense. My approach is tailored to meet your unique needs, ensuring that you have an ally to help get your life back.
1
Get a Free Case Review
Let’s discuss your case, your goals, and what strategies are right for you.
2
Resolve Your Case
I will lead you every step of the way. Together, we will fight for a dismissal.
3
Get Your Life Back
Work to get the best results possible so you can get your life back.
Choosing the right criminal defense attorney in Austin is an important decision. At Lance Kennedy Law, our criminal defense attorneys understand the weight of this choice and the trust you place in your legal representative. Our promise to you goes beyond just words, it’s a tangible commitment to excellence, transparency, and relentless advocacy as we navigate your case together.
