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DWI And DWAI Defense

Photo of James M. Wagman Resolving New York State DWI And DWAI Charges

Have you been arrested in the Hudson Valley for DWI or drinking and driving? You need an experienced DWI defense lawyer who knows and understands the law, the court rules and the different ways local courts handle drunk driving cases. For the advice of a seasoned practitioner, contact the office of James M. Wagman, Attorney at Law.

Call 866-901-8742 For A Free Consultation About Your DWI Defense Options

DWI charges are very serious and the consequences for convictions are harsh. They can lead to hefty fines, jail time, higher insurance premiums and the loss of your driver’s license for a significant amount of time. Here’s some basic information about what to expect in a New York DWI case:

  • A first DWI offense is a misdemeanor.
  • A second offense within 10 years of the prior DWI conviction is a felony.
  • Anyone stopped on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be required to take a field sobriety test.
  • Anyone arrested can be required to take a chemical test to measure blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
  • If you refuse a BAC test, your license can be suspended for at least one year.
  • If convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving while ability impaired by alcohol (DWAI) and you are under 21, your license will be revoked for one year.

Commercial drivers face even tougher penalties. If you hold a CDL, even a first conviction of DWI will result in an automatic one-year revocation of your commercial license. If you were hauling hazardous materials at the time of the arrest, the minimum revocation period will be three years.

Under Some Circumstances, A Compromise Plea Might Be Your Best Option

New York State prosecutors rarely allow plea bargaining to a nonalcohol or drug-related violation in order to compromise an original charge of drunk driving. An experienced defense attorney can tell you whether the facts of your case might support a negotiated plea, and I can use the strengths of your case to help reduce your exposure to punishment.

I have advised and represented people facing DWI and other serious criminal charges for more than 35 years in the local courts of Upstate New York To learn how my experience can benefit you, contact the office of James M. Wagman, Attorney at Law.