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Facing a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charge in Texas is a serious matter that can have profound and lasting impacts on your life, from your driving privileges to your personal and professional reputation. For residents across San Antonio and the wider Texas region, navigating these complex legal waters requires specialized expertise and a formidable advocate. George Scharmen – Expert DWI Attorney, stands as one of the most distinguished and highly recognized legal professionals in this field, dedicated to providing aggressive, scientifically-informed, and compassionate defense. This article will offer a comprehensive look into his practice, highlighting why he is consistently praised by clients and peers as the "BEST DWI lawyer" and an unparalleled choice for Texans seeking expert legal counsel when charged with intoxication offenses.

In the nuanced world of DWI defense, local expertise is not merely beneficial; it is absolutely critical. George Scharmen's decades of practice in San Antonio mean he possesses an unparalleled understanding of Texas DWI laws, local court procedures, the tendencies of prosecutors, and the specific scientific nuances of intoxication cases. As one client enthusiastically noted, "He researched every detail of my case and I walked out of the courtroom a happy woman! He worked very hard on my case and I am 100% satisfied!" This level of meticulous attention, coupled with a deep familiarity with the local legal landscape, allows for the development of highly effective defense strategies tailored to the unique environment of San Antonio. Furthermore, Mr. Scharmen’s commitment extends beyond just legal defense; as another client expressed, "George and Elsa took care of me from beginning to end... I did not even face a license suspension." This holistic approach, addressing not just the criminal charges but also the crucial aspect of driver's license preservation, highlights his comprehensive dedication to his clients' well-being. For Texans facing a DWI, having a local attorney who is recognized as a leader and who has a track record of achieving favorable outcomes—even preventing license suspensions—provides immense reassurance and a powerful ally.

The office of George Scharmen - Expert DWI Attorney is conveniently located at 214 Dwyer Ave Ste. 304, San Antonio, TX 78204, USA. This central San Antonio address places the firm in a highly accessible part of downtown, making it easy for clients from various parts of the city and its surrounding areas to reach. Its location within a professional building ensures a discreet and secure environment for legal consultations. For those utilizing public transportation, the office is often within comfortable walking distance of several bus stops, providing a practical option for commuting without a private vehicle. If you are driving, the downtown area typically offers a range of parking solutions, including street parking and nearby parking garages. While parking availability can vary, particularly during peak business hours, the central location generally ensures convenient access. Moreover, being situated in downtown San Antonio places the office in close proximity to local courthouses and other essential legal institutions, which can be advantageous for clients with ongoing legal proceedings, streamlining the process of attending hearings and meetings. This strategic and accessible location underscores the firm's commitment to serving the San Antonio community efficiently.

George Scharmen – Expert DWI Attorney specializes exclusively in defending individuals against charges related to driving while intoxicated (DWI) and other intoxication-related offenses. His dedicated focus on this complex area of law ensures an unparalleled level of expertise and comprehensive support for his clients.

Services Offered:

  • DWI/DUI Defense: Providing aggressive and scientifically-informed defense for all types of DWI and DUI charges in Texas, including:
    • First Offense DWI: Guiding clients through their initial DWI charge, working to mitigate penalties and protect their future.
    • Felony DWI: Representing individuals facing enhanced DWI charges, which carry more severe consequences.
    • Intoxication Assault: Defending clients accused of causing serious bodily injury while intoxicated.
    • Intoxication Manslaughter: Providing defense for the most serious intoxication-related charges, involving fatalities.
    • DWI with Child Passenger: Addressing enhanced charges when a minor is in the vehicle during a DWI arrest.
    • Out-of-State DWI: Assisting non-Texas residents who face DWI charges in the state.
  • Driver's License Suspension Defense (ALR Hearings): Crucially, the firm handles Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearings, which are separate from criminal proceedings, to protest the suspension of a client's driver's license. This immediate action is vital, as you typically only have 15 days to request this hearing after a DWI arrest.
  • Criminal Appeals: Utilizing extensive appellate experience (over 120 appeals, some of which have set precedents for other DWI lawyers) to challenge convictions or sentences in higher courts.
  • Challenging Scientific Evidence: Leveraging deep scientific training, including attendance at Axion Lab courses in gas chromatography and ownership of laboratory equipment, to meticulously scrutinize and challenge blood and breath test results, including exposing false lab methods and unreliable drug evidence.
  • Motion Practice: Expertly filing various motions, such as motions to suppress evidence (e.g., field sobriety tests, blood tests) to weaken the prosecution's case.
  • Trial Representation: Prepared to take cases to jury trial when necessary, fighting vigorously for a "not guilty" verdict, dismissals, or deferred adjudications.
  • General Criminal Defense (arising from DWI): While primarily focused on DWI, the firm also handles other offenses that may be charged in conjunction with a DWI arrest.

George Scharmen – Expert DWI Attorney is distinguished by an exceptional array of features and highlights that firmly establish him as a top-tier legal professional in DWI defense, not just in San Antonio but across Texas and the United States.

Features / Highlights:

  • Double Board Certified: George Scharmen is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and also by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. These dual certifications are extremely rare and signify the highest level of proven expertise and competence in criminal and trial law, particularly in DWI defense.
  • Decades of Dedicated Experience: Licensed to practice in Texas since 1973, Mr. Scharmen has over 50 years of experience, with a primary focus on criminal law and DWI defense for more than 40 years.
  • Recognized as "Best Lawyers in America" for DUI Defense: Consistently listed in this prestigious publication for many years (2008-2017), and awarded DUI Lawyer of the Year for the San Antonio region multiple times (2019, 2021, 2023). He is the only lawyer in the area to receive this award.
  • "Texas Super Lawyer" for 20 Years: Recognized by Thompson Reuters as a "Texas Super Lawyer" since the inception of the annual list in 2003, and frequently the only DWI Super Lawyer in Bexar County.
  • Pioneering Appellate Work: He has conducted over 100 appeals in Texas and U.S. Courts, including appearances before the U.S. Supreme Court, and is responsible for two of the most significant appellate opinions in Texas DWI history (Hartman v. State and Mata v. State), which have shaped DWI litigation by requiring scientifically reliable test results.
  • Scientific Expertise: Attended the Axion Lab course in gas chromatography and owns the same expensive laboratory equipment used by state testing labs. He has taught other lawyers how to understand and challenge forensic science in DWI cases.
  • Founding Member of Key Organizations: Founder and past president of the San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (SACDLA) and a founding member and past president of the Texas DWI Lawyers Association. He is also a founding member of the National College for DUI Defense.
  • "Defender of the Year" Award: Received the first-ever "Defender of the Year" award by SACDLA in 2006.
  • Client Testimonials: Rave reviews from clients, describing him as "hands down the BEST DWI lawyer" who is "100% satisfied" and noting the comprehensive care provided by his team, including his paralegal Elsa.

George Scharmen – Expert DWI Attorney offers a complimentary free consultation. This initial meeting allows prospective clients to discuss the specifics of their DWI case, understand their legal options, and get a preliminary assessment of their situation without any upfront financial commitment. This is particularly valuable given the immediate and critical nature of DWI charges, including the limited timeframe (15 days) to request an ALR hearing to protest driver's license suspension. While specific, limited-time "special offers" beyond the free consultation are not explicitly detailed in publicly available information, the firm's reputation for highly effective and personalized service, combined with their willingness to work tirelessly on behalf of clients, indicates a commitment to value. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding consultation policies, fees, and any available payment arrangements, it is always recommended to contact George Scharmen – Expert DWI Attorney directly using the provided contact details.

For those in urgent need of expert DWI defense, George Scharmen – Expert DWI Attorney can be reached through the following contact details:

Contact Information:

  • Address: 214 Dwyer Ave Ste. 304, San Antonio, TX 78204, USA
  • Phone: (210) 226-8021
  • Mobile Phone: +1 210-226-8021

It is highly advisable to call immediately following a DWI arrest, especially given the strict 15-day deadline for requesting an ALR hearing to protect your driver's license. Both the main office number and a mobile number are provided for your convenience, ensuring immediate access to expert legal advice. When you contact the office, be prepared to briefly describe the circumstances of your arrest so that the team can provide prompt and appropriate assistance.

For Texans in San Antonio and across the state facing DWI or intoxication charges, George Scharmen – Expert DWI Attorney is not just a suitable choice, but arguably the preeminent choice for legal representation. His convenient downtown location offers easy access during what is often a stressful and time-sensitive period. What truly elevates Mr. Scharmen is his unparalleled expertise, evidenced by his double Board Certification in Criminal Law and DUI Defense, a distinction held by very few attorneys. His decades of experience, including pioneering appellate work that has shaped DWI law in Texas, coupled with a deep scientific understanding of blood and breath tests, means clients receive a defense that is both aggressive and intellectually rigorous. Client testimonials consistently laud him as the "BEST DWI lawyer," praising his thoroughness and ability to achieve favorable outcomes, including preventing license suspensions. For any Texan facing a DWI charge, the comprehensive knowledge, strategic acumen, and unwavering dedication offered by George Scharmen and his team, including his friendly paralegal Elsa, provide the strongest possible defense and the highest chance for a positive resolution.

Location & Map

214 Dwyer Ave Ste. 304, San Antonio, TX 78204, USA

Customer Reviews

(36 reviews)

K
Kelly Cotner
Jan 15, 2025

Mr. Scharmen is hands down the BEST DWI lawyer! He researched every detail of my case and I walked out of the courtroom a happy woman! He worked very hard on my case and I am 100% satisfied! Call Mr. Scharmen and his friendly paralegal Elsa today!

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ehron pena
Jun 08, 2025

George and elsa took care of me from begining to end. I got the best verdict i could have received considering the charge. I did not even face a a license suspension. He and elsa took care of everything in between and i even called elsa with regards to my license situation because I lost it and she had my new revised license sent to me within 2 weeks. Thank you George scharmen.

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Alexandria Flores
Oct 09, 2024

If you find yourself in need of a DWI attorney who is not only highly skilled but also genuinely committed to getting you the best possible outcome, look no further than Mr. George Scharmen. From the moment I reached out for a consultation, I was impressed by his professionalism and expertise in handling DWI cases. One of the standout qualities of Mr. Scharmen is his strategic approach to each case. He took the time to thoroughly review the details of my situation, identify key legal issues, and develop a solid defense strategy. This level of preparation instilled confidence in me that my case was in capable hands.

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Doraida Alvira
Oct 27, 2024

Mr. Sherman is a great lawyer, as is his paralegal Elsa. The process has been bearable and they are people who have very good communication. They are people who take their time to explain everything to you in detail. They are worth every penny spent. If you need assistance on a DWI case they are the best!

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Chris Guerra
May 30, 2024

Mr Scharmen is one of the most professional and reliable attorneys there are out there. He was very reliable and always kept me in the loop as he worked my case. Naturally there is always some nerves, but he and Elsa did their best to ease the nerves for me and handled it all for me. Would definitely recommend Mr. Scharmen for any of your legal needs.

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