Multiple DWI Lawyer Queens
Multiple DWI Charges in NYC
Drivers who have prior driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving while ability impaired (DWAI) convictions on their records may be in danger of facing increased penalties and even felony charges for new DWI offenses. Multiple DWI charges should be taken very seriously; if you have been arrested for this type of offense, consider involving an attorney as soon as possible. A New York City multiple DWI lawyer at Musa-Obregon Law PC may be able to help you fight your charges to avoid these serious penalties.
According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website, a defendant convicted of multiple DWI offenses may face enhanced charges, longer terms of imprisonment and license suspension/revocation and higher fines.
First, it is important to understand what specific DWI-related offenses are outlined in New York law:
- DWI: Operating a vehicle while with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or greater.
- Aggravated DWI (A-DWI): Operating a vehicle with a BAC of .18% or greater.
- DWAI: Operating a vehicle with abilities impaired by alcohol.
- DWAI-Drug: Operating a vehicle with abilities impaired by drugs.
- DWAI-Combination: Operating a vehicle with abilities impaired by alcohol and drugs.
The following penalties may apply for multiple convictions, as follows:
Second DWI Offenses in New York
- Second DWAI offense within 5 years: misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in county jail, a fine of $500-$750 and driver's license revocation for at least 6 months.
- Second DWI or DWAI-drug offense within 10 years: class E felony, punishable by up to 4 years in prison, a fine of $1,000-$5,000 and license revocation for at least 1 year.
- Second A-DWI or DWAI-combination offense within 10 years: class E felony, punishable by up to 4 years in prison, a fine of $1,000-$5,000 and license revocation for 18 months.
Third or Subsequent DWI Offenses in New York
The penalties for a third DWI, A-DWI, DWI-drugs or DWI-combination offense are all the same, except for license revocation terms. These offenses are class D felonies, punishable by up to 7 years in prison and a fine of $2,000-$10,000. There is a minimum 1-year license revocation term for a third DWI or DWAI-drug offense, a minimum 18-month license revocation for a third A-DWI offense and a minimum 1 year or 18-month license revocation for a DWAI-combination offense.
Ignition Interlock Devices for Multiple Offenders in New York State
An ignition interlock device is used in motor vehicles to prevent the engine from starting unless an acceptable breath sample is provided. Similar to a breathalyzer, this device is connected with the ignition system in a vehicle and will only allow the vehicle to start if a motorist provides a passable breath sample. These devices must remain in a vehicle for at least 16 months, though the specific time for which it is required may vary depending on the unique case.
Aggressive New York City Multiple DWI Lawyer
Are you ready to fight your multiple DWI charges with an Queen multiple DWI attorney who isn't afraid to back down and who will dedicate the time and energy it takes to seek the best possible result? Now is the time to schedule a consultation with a legal professional at Musa-Obregon Law PC.