Table of Contents
The penalties for DWI in New York are even more severe compared to those of DUI offenses. Depending on the nature of the case, prosecution may upgrade a DUI charge to DWI charges. Circumstances that may cause this escalation include accidents where injury or death occurred, high BAC levels, other offenses committed with the DUI, or prior offenses resulting in suspension or revocation of the driver’s license. It’s important not to take either charge lightly, as a DWI attorney can attest. Other aspects of being convicted under the influence of alcohol or drugs will leave you with a criminal record, and that can significantly impact your life.
DUI vs. DWI Penalties in New York
The laws for DWI offenders are more rigid compared to DUI offenders. For instance, a minor below 21 years who is charged with a DUI offense faces a fine of $500, 60-day suspension of license, up to 40 hours of community service, and a compulsory alcohol awareness class. Such punishment will have a tremendous effect on a minor’s life.
The charges against a DWI for an adult over 21 are much more severe, with penalties including a 6-month jail term, a $2,000 fine, suspension of a driver’s license for as long as even a year, and attending an alcohol addiction treatment program.
How Long Does DUI or DWI Stays on Your Record
A DWI conviction can be on your record forever, affecting the events of your future life such as purchasing a home or even renting an apartment, getting certain types of jobs, having student loans, using credit to purchase a car, voting, carrying a gun, and participating in educational opportunities. Therefore, you should do everything possible for an expungement if your circumstances allow it. If you are in Nassau, our experienced Nassau County DWI defense lawyer can let you know if this is the proper step for you.
Understanding Reckless Driving and DWI
Reckless driving is defined as driving in a manner that is hazardous to the lives of other people, that may or may not involve alcohol. One way a skilled DWI defense attorney can reduce your DWI charges is by altering them to reckless driving charges. Reckless driving is not the same as DWI and it has a less severe punishment. Both may lead to jail time, but the time served for the reckless driving offenses are comparatively less.
Factors That Make You Eligible for Expungement
If you are a minor facing a DUI charge, your juvenile record may be expunged after you have served the sentence that the court imposes. If not, an under 21 DUI lawyer can help you to request the expungement of your record once you reach the age of 21. The only other grounds for expunging a record are if the judge of the court threw the case, if one was acquitted of the charge, or if one successfully appealed the conviction.
Impact on Insurance and Employment
In New York a DWI will stay on your insurance record for 10 years, depending on how far back the insurance company checks your driving record. This is usually the car insurers’ practice of checking your records for the last three to five years in order to come up with your premiums. Aside from the legal consequences of a DUI or DWI, you are unlikely to get a job, and it may harm your social reputation. The charges could also limit the kind of jobs you may be qualified to do or the countries you may be allowed to visit. These long-term consequences show the need of seeking the assistance of a professional DUI or DWI attorney such as Steven Siegel.
Hiring a Lawyer for DUI/DWI Cases
If you get a DWI or DUI charge in New York, it is recommended that you seek the services of a criminal defense attorney. An attorney can help you with your concerns, tell you about your case, and your possible solutions. You may make choices such as pleading innocent, entering a plea bargain, or simply having the case dismissed. It is, therefore, important to seek help from a law firm that will assist in explaining these options and offer the best outcomes. For instance, your lawyer may agree with the courts to lessen your charges and hence get a lighter conviction.
Reach Out To The Law Office of Steven S. Siegel PLLC!
When compared to DUI charges, DWI charges in New York are more severe due to a higher blood alcohol content level required for conviction. These penalties include heavy fines, possible jail time, and longer periods for suspension of the driver’s license amongst others.
If you are struggling with this complex situation, then it is highly essential to get the help of an effective DWI defense attorney near you. The Law Office of Steven S. Siegel PLLC represents cases connected with defenses to DWI charges throughout New York. With a record of success, Steven Siegel and his team are able to fight for your rights and ensure the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
