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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:


    • 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