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"Deandra Grant Law fights hard for their clients and is always willing to go above and beyond. They are the best firm for DWI cases in DFW and beyond. Definitely hire them to represent you in any pending cases."
- P. Williams
"Deandra Grant made a tough situation so much better. She listened to my concerns and helped me so much with my case. I would recommend her to anyone needing legal services."
- M. Haley
"Deandra Grant Law handled my case with diligence and professionalism. Deandra Grant's reputation is stellar and now I know why. She has a team of individuals who provide quality service."
- N. Coulter
As Seen On
McLennan County Criminal Courts Guide
By Attorney Deandra Grant
If you’re facing a criminal charge in McLennan County, understanding how the local courts work can make the process far less confusing. This guide explains where cases are heard, what each court handles, and what you can expect as your case moves through the system.
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Hewitt DWI and Criminal Defense Lawyers
Hewitt is a community in central McLennan County along the I-35 corridor between Waco and Woodway. The Hewitt Police Department and Texas DPS conduct active enforcement along I-35, Hewitt Drive, and Panther Way. Every criminal and DWI case arising from Hewitt is prosecuted by the McLennan County District Attorney’s office and heard at the McLennan County Courthouse.
Deandra Grant Law’s Waco office at 605 Austin Ave., Suite 5, Woolworth Office Building which is directly across the street from the McLennan County Courthouse.
Managing Partner Deandra Grant holds a Master’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Science, a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Toxicology, and the ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist designation. Partner Douglas Huff holds the same ACS-CHAL designation and has completed advanced digital forensics training. For federal matters in the Northern District of Texas, Of Counsel James Lee Bright brings more than 25 years of federal trial experience.
Why the Science Behind Your Case Matters
Most defense attorneys challenge DWI and criminal evidence through legal argument. Deandra Grant Law challenges it through the science.
- Blood testing: Texas DPS Crime Lab in Austin for most McLennan County DWI blood draws. GC-FID methodology, in vitro fermentation, sodium fluoride adequacy, chain of custody, analyst qualifications
- Drug cases: DPS Austin, Armstrong Forensic Laboratory, or NMS for drug analysis. Presence is not impairment.
- Breath testing: Intoxilyzer 9000. Partition ratio variability (1,100:1 to 3,400:1), 15-minute observation period compliance, calibration records, mouth alcohol, GERD/diabetes effects.
- Field sobriety tests: Deandra Grant is a trained SFST instructor who administers and grades the ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist and DUIDLA Board Certification exams. SFST cross-examination goes to the protocol, not just the result.
- Digital evidence: Cell phone data, social media, CDR records, surveillance footage
- Retrograde extrapolation: Rising BAC defense, Widmark formula, individual elimination rate variability
Important Criminal Videos
Choosing a criminal defense attorney
Why shouldn’t I use a court ordered attorney
Your rights after a drug crime arrest
Steps to take after a drug crime arrest
How can an attorney help me with a warrant?
Consequences of marijuana possession
How long does a criminal defense case take?
McLennan County Courts and Enforcement
Courthouse: McLennan County Courthouse, 501 Washington Ave., Waco, TX 76701.
District Attorney: District Attorney Josh Tetens (a former defense attorney elected in 2022) runs a unified office prosecuting both felony and misdemeanor cases. McLennan County is known as a law-and-order jurisdiction with aggressive prosecution and significant jury sentences.
Federal cases: McLennan County is in the Western District of Texas. Attorney James Lee Bright handles federal defense in the Western District.
Enforcement in Hewitt
- Hewitt Police Department
- McLennan County Sheriff’s Office
- Texas DPS Troopers (I-35)
DWI Penalties in Texas
- First offense (Class B): Up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000, license suspension up to 1 year. Deferred adjudication may be available in some first-time cases — eligibility is fact-specific.
- BAC 0.15+ (Class A): Up to 1 year jail, fine up to $4,000, mandatory ignition interlock. Permanent conviction.
- Second offense (Class A): 72-hour minimum jail as COP, up to 1 year, fine up to $4,000, mandatory interlock.
- Third offense (felony): 2–10 years prison, fine up to $10,000, 10-day minimum jail as COP.
- DWI with child passenger: State jail felony, 180 days–2 years, fine up to $10,000.
- Intoxication assault: Third-degree felony, 2–10 years, fine up to $10,000.
- Intoxication manslaughter: Second-degree felony, 2–20 years. Bentley’s Law restitution applies if victim was a parent of minor children.
Frequently Asked Questions for Those Recently Arrested in Waco, TX
What should I do if I've been arrested in Waco, TX?
After an arrest, remain calm and invoke your right to remain silent. Ask for an attorney immediately. Avoid making any statements without your attorney present.
How can an attorney help after my arrest in Waco, TX?
An attorney can provide legal guidance, protect your rights, and build a strong defense strategy. They can negotiate on your behalf, analyze evidence, and work towards a positive outcome.
Should I speak to the police without an attorney in Waco, TX?
It’s generally wise to wait for your attorney before speaking to the police. Anything you say can be used against you, and an attorney can guide your interactions.
How long can I be held in custody after an arrest in Waco, TX?
Typically, you must be brought before a judge within 48 hours of arrest. However, weekends and holidays might extend this period.
Can I post bail after being arrested in Waco, TX?
Yes, you can post bail to secure your release. The amount depends on the charges. You can pay the full amount or use a bail bondsman.
What are my rights after being arrested in Waco, TX?
You have the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to a fair trial. These rights are crucial to protect yourself legally.
What are the potential consequences of my charges in Waco, TX?
Consequences can vary greatly depending on the charges and your criminal history. They might include fines, probation, jail time, or more severe penalties for felonies.
Will I have to go to court after being arrested in Waco, TX?
Yes, if you’re charged with a crime, you’ll generally have to appear in court. An attorney will represent you and guide you through the process.
Can I expunge or seal my criminal record in Waco, TX?
Certain offenses might be eligible for expungement or record sealing under specific circumstances. Consult an attorney to understand your options.
How do I find the right attorney in Waco, TX?
Research attorneys with experience in criminal defense. Look for reviews, qualifications, and a solid track record. A free consultation can help you assess compatibility.
Criminal Defense in McLennan County
Every criminal defense in McLennan County begins with Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 38.23 which is the exclusionary rule with no good faith exception. An unlawful stop, a defective warrant, a search beyond its scope: any of these suppresses the evidence driving the prosecution’s case.
We handle the full range of criminal charges arising from Hewitt and McLennan County:
- Assault and family violence — including the permanent consequences of the family violence affirmative finding
- Drug possession and delivery — lab analysis challenged at the chemistry level
- Theft, robbery, fraud, and white-collar offenses
- Gun crimes — UCW, felon in possession, federal firearms charges
- Sex offenses — forensic evidence and digital evidence examined independently
- Murder and homicide — through capital murder
- Federal criminal defense — handled by James Lee Bright
Recent Blogs
When the Evidence Is AI-Generated: The Take It Down Act, Section 1466A, and What the Strahler Case Means for Criminal Defense
By Douglas E. Huff | Partner, Deandra Grant Law | Dallas, Texas On April 7, [...]
Arson Convictions, Cameron Todd Willingham, and Texas’s Junk Science Writ
In late April 2026, The Appeal reported on the appeal of Maria Montalvo, a New [...]
Daniel Ross: A Frisco Traffic Stop, a Gun and the Hemp-Law Problem
By Deandra Grant & Griffin Grant Welcome to The Defense File, where we examine the [...]
Adam “Pacman” Jones: Talent, Trouble, and a Pattern of Charges
By Deandra Grant & Griffin Grant Welcome to The Defense File, where we examine the [...]
Can Police Get Into Your iPhone? How Apple’s New Security Is Reshaping Digital Evidence
By Douglas E. Huff | Partner, Deandra Grant Law | Dallas, Texas In March 2026, [...]
The Michael Morton Act, the Richard Miles Act and the Heath Opinion Now Under Fire
Most people who are not lawyers do not think much about criminal discovery. It sounds [...]
Pitchford v. Cain: What a Batson Challenge Is, and Why the Jury Is Often Decided Before the First Witness
By Deandra Grant | Deandra Grant Law | Dallas, Texas On May 28, 2026, the [...]
Why Choose Deandra Grant Law in Hewitt
- Waco office directly across from the McLennan County Courthouse. 605 Austin Ave., Suite 5, Woolworth Office Building.
- 30+ years in Central Texas courts. 500+ trials to verdict statewide
- ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist — both Deandra Grant and Douglas Huff.
- Master’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Science + Graduate Certificate in Forensic Toxicology. Science-based challenges to blood, breath, and drug evidence that go beyond legal argument.
- Trained SFST Instructor.
- 17 published law books. Including The Texas DWI Manual.
- Texas Super Lawyer since 2011. AV® Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell®.
- Federal defense. James Lee Bright — Western District of Texas.
If you have been arrested for DWI or are facing criminal charges in Hewitt or anywhere in McLennan County, call (214) 225-7117 for a free, confidential consultation. Or schedule online at texasdwisite.com. The 15-day ALR deadline may already be running.
Client Reviews
“Deandra Grant Law – Criminal & DWI Defense handled my case with diligence and professionalism. Deandra Grant’s reputation is stellar and now I know why. She has a team of individuals who provide quality service.”
N. Coulter
(214) 225-7117
Experienced DWI Defense