DWI and DWAI
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is used to describe
a drunk driving charge. In New York, the charge of
DWI is a criminal misdemeanor charge. A conviction
of DWI will result in the driver having a criminal
record. Drivers convicted of DWI can face serious
penalties, such fines, losing their license, losing
their employment, increased insurance premiums, and
even jail time. A criminal conviction will have a
significant impact on future auto insurance costs
and employment opportunities.
If you have been previously convicted
of a DWI in New York in the last 10 years and are
caught operating a vehicle with an illegal blood alcohol
level, you may be charged and convicted of a felony
DWI. A felony conviction carries a much longer jail
sentence and higher fines than a misdemeanor conviction.
Given the above, it is essential that
you hire an attorney. DWI charges in New York State
have become serious given the prospect of the driver
having a criminal record. With that much at stake,
an attorney’s assistance is crucial. Our experienced
attorneys will do everything within their power to
have your DWI charges dismissed or reduced.
Driving While Ability Impaired
(DWAI)
A charge of Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI)
most usually involves a person who has a blood alcohol
level which is lower than that needed to be charged
with a DWI. However, a person who shows evidence of
physical or mental impairment can also be charged
with a DWAI.
DWAI is a traffic infraction, not a
crime, and will not leave a person with a criminal
record. However, the penalties are still rather harsh.
A first time offender convicted of DWAI will face
substantial fines, a license suspension which is typically
90 days, and a likelihood of a substantial increase
in his or her auto insurance premiums. Moreover, a
DWAI violation stays on a person’s driving record
for at least 10 years and will also generally show
up on a criminal record history check for the rest
of the person’s life.
A knowledgeable attorney from our firm
will advocate for you in court and fight to either
have your charges dismissed or minimize the charges
against you in order to avoid the maximum penalties.
Contact us about
your legal matter today! |
