Many people enjoy having a drink to wind down, particularly on the weekend. There is nothing wrong with this. People drink alcohol in the house all the time, or they go out to bars and clubs with friends and family.
These behaviors in themselves are not criminal offenses, as long as the person drinking the alcohol is of age. However, it is no secret that alcohol can impair a person’s judgment, and the consumption of alcohol is closely linked to certain criminal offenses.
Here are some of the most common crimes associated with alcohol:
Public intoxication
In Texas, it is a criminal offense to endanger yourself or another person in public through the use of alcohol. This offense is referred to as public intoxication. For example, if an individual is so drunk that they are in danger of falling into the busy roadways, they may be charged with public intoxication because there is a risk to both themselves and other people.
Driving while impaired
Drinking alcohol and driving do not mix. Due to the high number of impaired driving fatalities every year, law enforcement take this very seriously. It is unlawful to drive while impaired and the legal blood alcohol content in Texas is .08%.
A person need not fail a breathalyzer test to be charged with driving while impaired (DWI). If officers see open alcohol containers in the vehicle, if the driver smells of alcohol or if the driver has admitted to drinking alcohol, they may still be charged.
Charges related to the consumption of alcohol can be serious. A conviction could see you lose your driver’s license, face significant fines and even a prison sentence. That’s why it’s so important to seek legal guidance as soon as you are accused.
