Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C.

Penalties For First-Time DUI and DWAI Offenses

A conviction for driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in New York can result in substantial fines, a jail sentence, license suspension, and other penalties that can have far-reaching consequences. It's crucial for first-time offenders to retain the services of an experienced DUI lawyer New York as soon as possible to protect their rights and minimize the impact of these charges.

The penalties for a DUI or DWAI conviction in New York can vary depending on the offense and your BAC. All offenses are taken seriously, with first-time offenders potentially facing up to a year in jail, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, and substantial fines. Consulting with a DUI lawyer New York can provide crucial guidance in navigating these penalties.

Conviction of a DWI or DWAI in New York often requires enrollment in the Drinking Driver Program. Additionally, those holding CDLs or other professional licenses may face suspension or revocation of their driving privileges. A DUI lawyer New York can assist in addressing the specific implications for professional and commercial drivers.

New York state law mandates that all drivers consent to breath, urine, or blood tests when arrested for DUI. Refusal can lead to immediate license revocation. A skilled DUI lawyer New York can challenge the accuracy or legality of these tests, as well as the basis for the traffic stop itself.

Generally, DWI and DWAI offenses are misdemeanors, except for aggravated DWI which may be a felony with harsher penalties, including lengthy jail time and license revocation. Engaging a DUI lawyer New York is essential for understanding the severity of the charges and navigating the legal process.

A criminal record from a DUI conviction can have lasting effects on career opportunities, professional licenses, and personal relationships. A proficient DUI lawyer New York can work diligently to get charges reduced or dismissed, thus safeguarding your future.

An attorney will meticulously review all evidence in your case, including field sobriety test results and any other evidence, to build a strong defense. A DUI lawyer New York is also capable of challenging any tainted evidence, ensuring that your rights are fully protected throughout the legal proceedings.


Felony DUI Charges

When people in New York drink and drive, they not only face arrests but also a long period of license suspension, especially when the offense is a felony. In such situations, it's crucial to consult a DUI lawyer New York, as our firm is prepared to provide a strong defense for felony DUI charges in the state. Felony DUI convictions can carry substantial jail time and fines, along with other significant collateral effects like probation and driver’s license reinstatement requirements.

A DUI in New York is defined under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) 1192 as driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs. While a first-time DUI is typically charged as an unclassified misdemeanor, a DUI lawyer New York can explain how subsequent convictions escalate to class A or B misdemeanors, respectively. Felony charges can arise from multiple DWI convictions within a decade or from a BAC of 0.08% or higher.

The most common type of felony drunk driving case in New York involves individuals with two or more prior DWI convictions within ten years. A DUI lawyer New York can provide insight into the legal implications of a second or more DWI or DUI with a BAC of 0.08%, which is considered a felony under VTL 1192(2-a)(b).

Aggravated DWI laws in New York apply to individuals with a BAC of 0.18 or above, categorizing it as a felony with more severe penalties than a typical DUI. An experienced DUI lawyer New York can offer essential legal defense in such aggravated cases, helping to navigate the complexities of the law.

In some instances, a skilled DUI lawyer New York can negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce felony DWI charges down to a misdemeanor. This option may be pursued when the prosecutor recognizes insufficient evidence for severe DWI charges, allowing the accused to plead to a lesser offense.

After a felony DUI charge in New York, it’s common for driving privileges to be suspended immediately at the arraignment. A DUI lawyer New York can guide you through the process of regaining conditional license privileges and advise on the requirements of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. For comprehensive legal assistance and a detailed understanding of your case, it is recommended to consult with a DUI lawyer New York.


DUI Accused Legal Representation NY

When charged with DUI or DWI in New York, the consequences can be severe, including jail time, loss of driver’s license, and hefty fines. It's essential to hire a DUI lawyer New York, skilled in criminal law, to build a solid defense and identify vulnerabilities in the prosecution’s case to help you avoid serious penalties.

In most DWI cases, the police will allege intoxication based on observations like bloodshot eyes, alcohol odor, and flushed complexion. They often use a portable breath tester (PBT) to measure BAC. A proficient DUI lawyer New York knows various strategies to challenge the accuracy of these breath tests, turning potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case to your advantage.

If arrested for DUI in New York, it's crucial to have a DUI lawyer New York with expertise in DWI cases. Such a lawyer will scrutinize every aspect of your arrest, from the traffic stop to the reliability of breath and blood tests, and strive for a reduction or dismissal of your charges.

Located in New York, the Law Office of Jason Bassett, P.C., while covering a range of criminal cases, also offers defense for individuals accused of DUI. A skilled DUI lawyer New York from this firm can defend against DUI charges effectively, along with handling cases related to other criminal offenses.

For those in Long Island facing DUI or DWI charges, having a local attorney like Jason Bassett, with extensive legal experience, is vital. A DUI lawyer New York specializing in such cases can help mitigate penalties like fines, jail time, and license suspension, and work diligently for a dismissal of the charges. They ensure swift and efficient case handling, offering competitive and affordable legal services.


Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C.

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