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Bexar County Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton

EXPERIENCED CRIMINAL ATTORNEY

  1. Board Certified

  2. Former Prosecutor

  3. 100+ Courtroom Victories

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© 2023 by Thornton Criminal Defense, PLLC. 

Atascosa County Criminal Defense Attorney

San Antonio Office:

111 Soledad, Suite 401

San Antonio, Texas 78205

Tel: 210-439-5627

Atascosa Office:

216 N Bryant St

Pleasanton, Texas 78064

FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR

PERSONALIZED ATTENTION TO YOUR CASE

NO HOURLY RATES, ALWAYS A FLAT FEE

CLIENT CENTERED APPROACH TO YOUR CASE

BOARD CERTIFIED IN CRIMINAL LAW 

OVER A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE IN CRIMINAL LAW

WHY HIRE THORNTON CRIMINAL DEFENSE?

Attorney Brad Thornton is a highly experienced and Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer. With his background as a former Chief Prosecutor, he has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system and is able to provide comprehensive and effective representation to his clients. He is also deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment in court, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Brad Thornton is dedicated to helping his clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case, whether it is in San Antonio or elsewhere in South Texas. He recognizes the stress and anxiety that can come with being accused of a crime, and approaches his clients with compassion while keeping them informed at every step of the process. His knowledge and experience make him a strong advocate for his clients.

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CDL Attorney in San Antonio, Texas

DWI with a CDL

Less than .008% of lawyers are Board Certified in Criminal Law. Click below to find out what that means and why hiring a Board Certified attorney is the only was to make sure you are getting an lawyer with the experience to handle your case.

Former Vehicular Crimes Prosecutor

FORMER VEHICULAR CRIMES PROSECUTOR

As a ​member of the District Attorney's Vehicular Crimes Team, in the county with the most roadway fatalities in the State, Brad Thornton was regularly dispatched to the worst types of DWI cases involving serious bodily injury or death.  His years of experience and training on the most serious types of intoxication charges allows him to protect your rights!  When you are looking for a DWI Lawyer in San Antonio DWI attorney, Brad has the experience you need on your side. 

CDL Attorney in San Antonio, Texas


A commercial driver's license (CDL) is a type of driver's license that is required to operate certain commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in the United States. These vehicles include tractor-trailers, buses, and other large vehicles that are used for transportation of goods and passengers. Obtaining a CDL is a rigorous process that involves passing both knowledge and skills tests, as well as meeting other requirements.

 

Due to the potential danger of operating large commercial vehicles, the regulations for CDL holders are strict and the consequences for violating these regulations can be severe. One such consequence is disqualification, which is the revocation or suspension of a CDL for a specified period of time. Disqualification can occur for a variety of reasons, including driving under the influence (DWI) and other traffic offenses.

 

If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to seek the guidance of a qualified CDL attorney in San Antonio. San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton, who is Board Certified in criminal law and a former chief prosecutor, is trained in SFSTs, ARIDE, and DRE. He was a leader on the vehicular crimes unit with the district attorney's office and offers free consultations. He can be reached at 210-439-5627.

DWI and CDL disqualification in Texas


Driving under the influence (DWI) is a criminal offense in Texas that is defined as operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. The penalties for a DWI conviction can vary depending on the circumstances of the case and the individual's prior criminal record. For CDL holders, the consequences of a DWI conviction can be even more severe.

 

In Texas, a first-time DWI conviction for a CDL holder can result in a one-year disqualification of their CDL. A second DWI conviction can result in a lifetime disqualification. Additionally, if a CDL holder is convicted of a DWI while operating a CMV, the disqualification period is increased to three years. These disqualifications are in addition to any other penalties or fines that may be imposed by the court for the DWI conviction.


Below is a list of the timeframes for disqualification of your CDL in Texas for various offenses:

 

Disqualified for 60 Days:

·       Convicted of two serious traffic violations that occur within a three-year period; or

·       Convicted of one violation of a law that regulates the operation of a motor vehicle at a railroad grade crossing

 

Disqualified for 120 Days:

·       Convicted of three serious traffic violations arising from separate incidents occurring within a three-year period; or

·       Convicted of two violations of a law that regulates the operation of a motor vehicle at a railroad grade crossing that occur within a three-year period.

 

Disqualified for one year:

  • If convicted of three violations of a law that regulates the operation of a motor vehicle at a railroad grade crossing that occur within a three-year period;

  • The First Conviction of the following crimes:

  • DWI, DWI with a Child Passenger, or Intoxication Assault;

  • leaving the scene of an accident involving a motor vehicle driven by the person;

  • using a motor vehicle in the commission of a felony;

  • causing the death of another person through the negligent or criminal operation of a motor vehicle; or

  • driving a commercial motor vehicle while the person's commercial driver's license or commercial learner's permit is revoked, suspended, or canceled, or while the person is disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle, for an action or conduct that occurred while operating a commercial motor vehicle;

  • If the person had a BAC over .04 or that a controlled substance or drug was present in the person's body, while operating a commercial motor vehicle in a public place;

  • If the person had a BAC over .08 while operating a motor vehicle, other than a commercial motor vehicle, in a public place

 

Disqualified for three years:

  • Convicted of the following offenses and the vehicle being operated by the person was transporting a hazardous material required to be placarded:

  • DWI, DWI with a Child Passenger, or Intoxication Assault;

  • Leaving the scene of an accident involving a motor vehicle driven by the person;

  • Using a motor vehicle in the commission of a felony;

  • Causing the death of another person through the negligent or criminal operation of a motor vehicle; or

  • Driving a commercial motor vehicle while the person's commercial driver's license or commercial learner's permit is revoked, suspended, or canceled, or while the person is disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle, for an action or conduct that occurred while operating a commercial motor vehicle;

  • If the vehicle being operated by the person was transporting a hazardous material required to be placarded:

  • If the person had a BAC over .04 or that a controlled substance or drug was present in the person's body, while operating a commercial motor vehicle in a public place;

  • If the person had a BAC over .08 while operating a motor vehicle, other than a commercial motor vehicle, in a public place

 

Disqualified for life:

  • The second conviction or occurrence or two convictions or occurrences of a combination of the following:




Implied Consent for CDL Holders and Consequences for Refusal

Implied consent is a legal principle that states that by operating a motor vehicle on public roads, an individual has given their implied consent to submit to chemical testing if they are suspected of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI). This means that if a police officer has probable cause to believe that a driver is under the influence, they can request that the driver take a blood, breath, or urine test to determine their blood alcohol concentration (BAC).

However a CDL holder does have the right to refuse chemical testing, but there are consequences for doing so and even if a CDL holder refuses chemical testing, the officer can still obtain a warrant to administer a test.


In Texas, if a CDL holder refuses to submit to chemical testing, their CDL will be disqualified for:


  • One year for a first refusal

  • Three years if the individual refused testing while transporting hazardous materials

  • Life for a second refusal


San Antonio CDL Attorney


CDL disqualification can have a significant impact on the individual's livelihood and employment prospects. Many jobs in the transportation industry require a valid CDL, and disqualification can make it difficult for the individual to find work in their field. This can lead to financial difficulties and a loss of income for the individual and their family.

If you find yourself facing CDL disqualification, it's important to seek the guidance of a qualified attorney like San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton who is Board Certified in criminal law and a former chief prosecutor with extensive DWI experience. Call 210-439-5627 for a free consultation.


HAVE YOU BEEN ARRESTED FOR DWI?

You may only have 15 days until you Driver's License is suspended

If you have been arrested for DWI, your license may be in jeopardy. In certain circumstances, you have just 15 days to request an administrative hearing with DPS to save your license. These hearings are highly technical and you need an experience attorney to request a hearing right away and begin the process to save your license. 

.008%

Number of other lawyers who are also Board Certified in Criminal Law

100%

Percent of career spent practicing criminal law

100+

Number of courtroom victories

Let’s talk about the Numbers

DWI Attorney in San Antonio, Texas
Second DWI in San Antonio
DWI Third or More
DWI Over .15 BAC
DWI with a Child Passenger in San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio Intoxication Assault Attorney
Intoxication Manslaughter Attorney in San Antonio
DWI License Suspension in San Antonio
Learn about the potential issues and limitations of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) and non-standardized testing from San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton.
SR-22 Insurance in San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio DWI Lawyer

DWI Crimes & Topics

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Daryl M.

Elmendorf, Texas

If you need a criminal lawyer, Brad Thornton is an excellent choice. He is intelligent, trustworthy, and highly professional, with an amazing understanding of the law.

 

Choosing the right lawyer can shape the rest of your life, so make sure to make the right decision and choose Brad Thornton.

Brian F. 

San Antonio, Texas

I have had the opportunity to know Brad both personally and professionally for a while now. As a fellow attorney, I am consistently impressed by his passion and innovative approach to legal issues. He is exceptionally intelligent and is always willing to go above and beyond for his clients. When I refer clients to Brad, I have full confidence that they will receive top-quality representation.

Stephanie S.

San Antonio, Texas

We recently faced a stressful family matter and turned to Brad for legal guidance. He was extremely compassionate and helped us understand our options and the legal process in an easy-to-follow way. We are thrilled with the outcome of our case and are grateful to Brad for his help. Thank you!

Garry T.

San Antonio, Texas

I cannot emphasize enough how understanding and compassionate Brad Thornton was during a difficult situation. He helped us navigate the legal aspects of our case and provided us with a clear understanding of our options. I highly recommend Brad Thornton for anyone in need of legal representation.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING