The Law Offices of Ronald A. Ramos

Public intoxication charges frequently occur outside of bars and restaurants, however with the proper defense attorney, the State usually has a hard time convicting people of public intoxication charges. With a Public Intoxication charge, the state must prove that you were intoxicated to the point that you were an immediate danger to others or yourself.

Under Texas Law, a person commits the offense of public intoxication if he or she appears in a public place while intoxicated to the degree that the person may be a danger to one's self or others. (See Texas Penal Code section 49.02). Public Intoxication in Texas is punishable as a Class C Misdemeanor.

A Public Intoxication charge punishable by a fine up to $500.00 and can result in additional penalties.The simplest way to handle your Public Intoxication charge is to pay the fine directly to the court, which will automatically enter a guilty plea and place conviction on your record.  Having this charge on your criminal record can negatively affect you in future school and/or employment opportunities as well as apartment rental opportunities.  We can help you avoid this.

Courses of Action for a Public Intoxication Charges

In most cases a lawyer can keep the charge from appearing as a permanent conviction on your record. This is usually accomplished by dismissal or deferred adjudication. With a deferred adjudication, there will not be a final conviction on your record as long as you comply with the terms and conditions of the court. If you have been charged with multiple offenses, your options may differ.

A trip to the courthouse can often exceed three hours with delays in obtaining paperwork, meeting with a prosecutor or judge, and then paying the fine.  Instead of taking time off from work, school or your busy schedule, let us take care of your Public Intoxication charge for you.Attorney Ronald Ramos is experienced in fighting public intoxication charges for his clients, and will do everything necessary to help you avoid court and protect your record.

FREE CONSULTATION ON TEXAS PUBLIC INTOXICATION CASES

Don't face the judicial system alone. Having an attorney on your side can make a world of difference. Please contact us today to find out what we can do for you.

Law Offices of Ronald A. Ramos – Public Intoxication Defense

San Antonio, TX:  (210) 308-8811

Laws Regarding Public Intoxication in Texas

Sec. 49.02.  PUBLIC INTOXICATION.

(a)  A person commits an offense if the person appears in a public place while intoxicated to the degree that the person may endanger the person or another.

(a-1)  For the purposes of this section, a premises licensed or permitted under the Alcoholic Beverage Code is a public place.

(b)  It is a defense to prosecution under this section that the alcohol or other substance was administered for therapeutic purposes and as a part of the person's professional medical treatment by a licensed physician.

(c)  Except as provided by Subsection (e), an offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.

(d)  An offense under this section is not a lesser included offense under Section 49.04.

(e)  An offense under this section committed by a person younger than 21 years of age is punishable in the same manner as if the minor committed an offense to which Section 106.071, Alcoholic Beverage Code, applies.