Understand Your Legal Options If You’ve Been Charged With Drunk Driving
Drunk driving in New York is a serious offense. Over the past number of years, the media and various political action groups have helped to bring tougher laws and increased the penalties for violations. Now, a blood-alcohol content of .08% or higher will bring on a Driving While Intoxicated charge (DWI). If the BAC is between .05% and .07%, a DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) can be charged. If you have a commercial license, a BAC of .04% may bring a DUI charge. And now there are DWAI Drugs charges for those who are accused of driving under the influence of drugs or medication.
If these charges stick, you could lose your driving privileges, face possible jail time and pay more in insurance premiums. For all these reasons and more, it is critical to seek the help of an experienced defense attorney like ours at Powers Law, P.C. Our lawyers have 50 years of combined experience, and we will fight to protect your rights and freedom.
Possible Penalties Resulting From Drunk Or Drugged Driving Charges
Penalties vary based on each case and the sentence for DWI, DWAI or DWAI Drugs also varies based on your previous record, the existence/timing of previous offenses and where you have been charged.
A first offense for DWAI – the lightest charge you may face – is punishable by up to 15 days in jail, loss of license for 90 days and a fine of $300-$500. If charged with a DWI offense over .08% BAC, you could face up to a year in jail, loss of license for a year and a fine of $500-$1000. The penalties grow for a second offense, and a third offense can bring prison time for up to seven years. If you are facing any of the charges mentioned above, please contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.
Why Our Firm Is The Smart Choice For DWI Defense Representation
Our firm’s founder, John T. Powers, has been representing clients for 25 years. He works tirelessly to defend those accused of drunk driving offenses, including DWI, DWAI and DUI. His work has helped to change the laws and he is asked to speak about the subject at various legal seminars.
Our firm is ready to help you with any of the following legal issues:
- DWI
- Impaired driving
- Vehicular manslaughter
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Suspended license
- Refusal of field sobriety tests
- Hardship hearings
- Trials
- All traffic violations
Mr. Powers will fight to have those who certify the field sobriety tests on the stands so they are cross-examined, instead of having a notarized piece of paper decide your future.
Contact Us For A Free Discussion About Your Case
Based in West Islip, Powers Law, P.C., serves clients in Suffolk and Nassau counties as well as all five boroughs of New York City. To take advantage of a free initial consultation about your criminal charges, call us at 631-215-3442 or reach out online.