April 4, 2025

April Focus: Your Rights, Your Defense — DUI & Drug Charges in West Texas

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April Awareness Campaign — Criminal Defense at the Forefront

Each year, April marks a shift. The days get longer, the weather improves—and in West Texas, law enforcement activity tends to ramp up, especially around traffic stops and drug-related arrests. Whether it’s increased travel over holiday weekends, spring break hangovers, or routine patrols, more people find themselves facing DUI or drug charges this time of year.

At Low Law Firm, we’re using April to spotlight the criminal defense work led by Attorney Tara Gilmore-Low. Although our office is known for personal injury advocacy, we never overlook the critical role of standing between our clients and the full force of the criminal justice system. From Abilene to Sweetwater, from Ballinger to Anson, Tara has defended clients facing serious accusations—and worked hard to protect their rights every step of the way.

DUI vs. DWI in Texas — What You Should Know

In Texas, you may hear both “DUI” and “DWI” thrown around, but these terms aren’t interchangeable. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) applies when an adult operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more. DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is typically reserved for minors under 21, where any detectable amount of alcohol can lead to a charge.

But here’s the catch—being charged doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Portable breath tests can give false positives, field sobriety tests are subjective, and officers may misinterpret signs of fatigue, medical issues, or even nerves. Unfortunately, many people assume there’s no point in fighting back.

That’s simply not true. A defense attorney can examine everything from the validity of the traffic stop to how evidence was handled. If your rights were violated, your case deserves to be challenged.

A Closer Look at Drug Charges in Texas

Across the state, drug-related arrests remain common, even as national attitudes and laws evolve. In 2023 alone, more than 100,000 drug-related arrests were recorded, many stemming from simple possession cases during routine traffic stops or search warrants. The Texas Department of Public Safety compiles this data every year, showing how widespread these charges really are.

Whether the issue is marijuana, prescription drugs, THC vapes, or controlled substances, the reality is the same: You need legal protection early on. The presence of a substance doesn’t always prove intent or ownership, and circumstances matter. Was the search lawful? Was the substance tested properly? Did law enforcement respect your rights?

These questions aren’t minor. They’re essential. And Tara Gilmore-Low knows how to ask—and answer—them in court.

The Marijuana Confusion in Texas

One of the biggest sources of confusion we encounter at Low Law Firm involves marijuana and cannabis-related products. Clients often assume that CBD, Delta-8, or THC vape oils are legal in Texas—but the reality is murky.

According to Texas NORML, cannabis laws in Texas remain strict, especially when compared to other states. Even possession of small amounts of marijuana is still illegal in most counties. And possession of concentrated products like vape oils or edibles often carries more serious implications, regardless of the amount.

If you’re unsure about what’s legal and what’s not, you’re not alone. These cases often come down to interpretation, local enforcement, and how well your legal team understands the nuance.

The Power of Silence: Know Your Rights

It’s easy to panic during a traffic stop. Police lights flash. Your heart races. You want to be cooperative. But many people don’t realize they have the right to remain silent—and should absolutely use it.

Here’s what you need to remember:

  • You don’t have to answer questions about where you’ve been or whether you’ve consumed anything.

  • You don’t have to agree to a search, unless officers have probable cause or a warrant.

  • You can ask to speak to an attorney—and should do so immediately.

The ACLU’s Know Your Rights Guide is a great resource to understand the specific do’s and don’ts when stopped by police.

These are more than words on paper. They’re lifelines when you’re standing roadside in West Texas, unsure what comes next.

Why Hiring an Attorney Immediately Makes a Difference

Timing is everything in a criminal case. The sooner you have legal representation, the more control you have over the outcome.

From the moment you’re arrested or questioned, you start making decisions that shape your defense. Did you consent to a search? Did you say something incriminating? Was the traffic stop lawful?

Tara Gilmore-Low helps her clients by:

  • Challenging unlawful searches

  • Filing motions to suppress weak evidence

  • Reviewing body cam footage and arrest procedures

  • Providing strategic advice to avoid legal missteps

Whether it’s a misdemeanor marijuana charge or a more complex DWI case, early legal intervention can be the difference between a strong defense and a permanent mark on your record.

How Springtime in West Texas Affects Criminal Cases

April isn’t just about Easter and warmer weather—it also brings more roadside checkpoints, DUI enforcement campaigns, and officer visibility across our region. Law enforcement is often more aggressive during holiday weekends or spring events, especially near high-traffic areas.

Even social or recreational use—like bringing edibles to a BBQ or carrying THC vape pens to a concert—can result in arrests if you’re not aware of local laws.

That’s why Low Law Firm is launching this campaign now—to help you know your rights before you need to defend them.

We Fight for Real People—Not Just Legal Outcomes

At Low Law Firm, we don’t view our clients as case numbers. We represent real people: teachers, students, oilfield workers, military families, and community members trying to navigate a complex legal world.

We believe you are innocent until proven otherwise, and we’ll fight to make sure that presumption is honored in court.

What’s Next in This Series?

This April, we’re bringing you a series of educational and empowering blogs that break down your rights and legal options in West Texas:

  • Week 2: “What You Should Do (and Say) During a Traffic Stop in Texas”

  • Week 3: “Marijuana in Texas: What’s Actually Legal Now?”

  • Week 4: “How a DUI Case is Built—and Defended”

We’ll also include answers to common client questions and provide ongoing access to legal resources that can help.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve a Defense That Respects Your Story

Being accused of a crime doesn’t erase your worth. At Low Law Firm, we believe in listening before judging and defending our clients with strategy, strength, and compassion.

If you or someone you know has recently been charged with a DUI or drug-related offense, reach out today. Don’t gamble with your future—protect it.

📞 Call Low Law Firm at 325-455-1889
🖥️ Schedule a consultation: https://lowlawfirm.com/contact