In the state of New York, a conviction for DWI or DWAI has both direct and indirect costs, which might include fines, license reinstatement fees, lost wages, and higher car insurance premiums. When you consider that even a first-time offender could face jail time, though, the associated expenses might be the least of your worries.
Fortunately, even if you failed a chemical test, there may be a defense that works in your favor. A criminal defense lawyer from LoTempio P.C. Law Group can assess your situation and explain potential defense options.
We provide aggressive representation in a variety of cases including:
- DWI;
- DWAI;
- DWAI drugs;
- DWAI combined influence;
- Aggravated DWI;
- Chemical test refusal; and
- Violations of New York’s Zero Tolerance Law.
Call 716-855-3761 to schedule a consultation with a DWI attorney in New York. In the meantime, read on for a brief overview of New York’s DWI penalties:
1. Mandatory Fines
Anyone convicted of driving while intoxicated has to pay a mandatory fine. The total amount will depend on the severity of the violation.
For example, a motorist who violates the Zero Tolerance Law, or drives with a BAC of between 0.02 and 0.07 despite being younger than 21, will have to pay a civil penalty of $125. Someone who receives a third DWI conviction within 10 years, on the other hand, can be ordered to pay up to $10,000.
2. Incarceration
A conviction for either DWI or DWAI may carry a jail sentence—even if it is your first offense. For DWAI, the maximum jail term for a first-time offender is 15 days. A first-time conviction for DWI, however, can result in a jail sentence of up to one year. The incarceration term increases with subsequent offenses. In New York, the “look-back period” for alcohol-related driving charges is usually five or 10 years, depending on the type of offense.
3. License Suspension or Revocation
Every alcohol-related driving violation will result in a license suspension or revocation. The shortest suspension, 90 days, applies to motorists convicted of a first-offense DWAI. New York residents who are convicted of DWI out of state can also expect a 90-day license revocation. The longest license revocation period is up to 18 months and applies to third-offense DWAI convictions and second-offense DWI convictions.
Discuss Your Case with a DWI Lawyer in New York
If you are facing DWI or DWAI charges, contact LoTempio P.C. Law Group to discuss your case. A New York criminal defense attorney on our team will evaluate the circumstances of your arrest to determine the most strategic way to proceed.
We understand how easy it is to feel hopeless after being charged with an alcohol-related driving offense. There’s a lot at stake, and the penalties of a conviction can have a profound impact on your future. Fortunately, there may be a defense strategy that results in reduced charges, reduced penalties, or the outright dismissal of your case. Call 716-855-3761 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a consultation.