When a driver is arrested for Driving While Intoxicated or Driving Under the Influence (DWI/DUI) in New York, it’s a serious crime. A conviction can result in fines, license revocation, the requirement to use an ignition interlock device, community service, and jail time. It is important to hire a criminal lawyer from a Long Island DWI law firm to fight back against your felony or misdemeanor DWI charge as soon as possible.
A skilled Long Island DWI law firm can often work to have a DWI/DUI case dismissed without having to go to trial. However, if the case cannot be resolved by way of plea bargaining or reduced charge, the next step is to fight your case at trial.
The process of fighting your DWI defense case at trial can be very long and complicated. It requires filing motions, investigating the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and many other things. The process can take months as the prosecution and defense build their cases.
Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony DWI, your lawyer can explain the charges against you, answer your questions, and help you fight back against them. A Long Island DWI law firm can also help you explore other options to get your DWI or DUI charges dismissed, including taking part in a diversion program or pleading to a lesser charge.
Before a case goes to trial, the prosecution will typically request a pretrial conference. At this meeting, a DA will discuss the case with your lawyer and may offer a plea bargain. Then your lawyer will decide if a plea bargain is the best option for you.
At the trial itself, the prosecution will present their case first. They will call police officers to testify about their investigation, and they will bring in witnesses who can analyze the forensic evidence collected. Your Long Island DWI law firm can question these witnesses, and poke holes in the prosecutor’s version of events.
Your defense attorney can also question the accuracy of field sobriety tests and chemical breathalyzers. Moreover, he or she can argue that there was insufficient reasonable suspicion for the traffic stop, issues with the chain of custody of evidence, and problems with the procedure followed by police when collecting blood samples.
If you have been arrested for DWI, contact a Long Island DWI law firm right away. They will work hard to resolve your case without going to trial, but if it is necessary, they are well-prepared and ready to fight your DWI / DUI defense case at trial.
If you are arrested on suspicion of DWI, you are facing serious consequences if convicted. A conviction could result in jail time, large fines, the loss of your job or other professional opportunities and even a suspended license. You need legal advice now from a Long Island DWI law firm that understands the New York laws and knows how to fight to protect your rights.
A skilled Long Island DWI law firm can help you fight the charges, and even get the case dismissed. There are many ways to challenge the evidence against you, such as through the use of witnesses. A good Long Island DWI law firm will also have the experience necessary to effectively tell your side of the story in court.
Penalties for DWI can vary depending on the circumstances surrounding your arrest and your prior record. A first-time offense is generally considered a misdemeanor and may include up to one year in jail, fines, a 6-month license suspension and 3 years of probation. Penalties increase with each additional DWI conviction.
A felony DWI may be charged if your BAC is above.18 or you cause an accident that seriously injures or kills someone else. The maximum penalty for a felony DWI is one year in prison, a $2,500 fine and a 1-year license revocation.
In addition to these criminal penalties, a DWI conviction can result in hefty insurance premiums and the requirement that you install an ignition interlock device on your car to prevent you from driving while under the influence. These devices are similar to a breathalyzer, but they require you to blow into the device before starting your vehicle. The device will also ask you to blow into the device periodically while driving to ensure that no alcohol is present on your breath.
The New York Department of Motor Vehicles will initiate a proceeding to suspend your driver’s license at arraignment if you are arrested for DWI and either failed or refused a chemical test. This is a separate matter from the criminal case and must be addressed within fifteen days of your arraignment. You can request a Pringle hearing to contest this determination and attempt to keep your license.
Your Long Island DWI law firm can discuss your case with the Department of Motor Vehicles on your behalf, and try to have your license reinstated. They can also help you avoid the revocation of your license, and work to prevent the seizure of your car or truck. A Long Island DWI law firm can also argue that field sobriety tests are unreliable and should not be relied upon to prove your guilt in a DUI case. They can also explain the effects of certain medications and how they may impact your ability to drive. Their knowledge and education will provide you with the best possible outcome in your case.
The law takes driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol very seriously. If you are convicted of this offense, it can have serious consequences that will affect every aspect of your life. This is why it is so important to seek out the help of a Long Island DWI law firm as soon as possible. An experienced DWI lawyer could have a significant impact on the outcome of your case.
A Long Island DWI law firm may be able to help you get your charges reduced or dismissed. They can also protect you from the severe penalties that a DWI conviction will bring to your life. These penalties include fines, license revocation, jail time, surcharges and more. In many cases, your defense lawyer can help you avoid these penalties by arguing that there were flaws in the police's evidence or procedure. For example, your lawyer can argue that the blood test was not properly administered or that the breathalyzer machine was not working correctly.
You can be charged with DWI in New York if you are found to have an illegal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level or signs of impairment, such as slurred speech or difficulty following simple commands. These symptoms are usually the result of having more than one alcoholic drink or taking prescription medications that can impair your ability to drive. However, other factors can also lead to a DWI charge, including speeding, failing to keep right, or weaving.
DWI laws in New York are harsh, and they become increasingly severe if you have multiple DUI convictions. They can impact your freedom, finances, career, and even your family. This is why it's crucial to hire a Long Island DWI law firm as soon and as carefully as you can.
New York has a "zero tolerance" policy for drivers under 21. This means that even a small amount of alcohol can result in a DWI arrest for an underage driver. If you are arrested for a DWI under 21, you will be forced to submit to a chemical test to determine your BAC level.
In addition to the court-imposed penalties for DWI, New York imposes penalties at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that can have far-reaching consequences. These penalties can include fines, license revocation, and attendance at a victim impact panel. In some cases, you will be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle.
How to Handle DWI Charges on Long Island
If you have been charged with DWI, it is vital to work with an experienced Long Island DWI law firm. A seasoned lawyer will help you understand your legal options and provide a thorough assessment of the case. In addition, they can assist you with a DMV hearing, if necessary. In the end, this could save you time and money in the long run. To find a qualified Long Island DWI law firm, consider utilizing resources like Internet directories, bar organization websites, and legal referral services. Ultimately, you should choose an attorney based on their experience, track record, proficiency in DWI/DWAI cases and your comfort with their communication style.
Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C. | Criminal Attorney and DWI Lawyer
320 Carleton Ave Suite 4200, Central Islip, NY 11722, United States
(631) 259-6060