New York DUI & DWI: First Offense Lawyer

Being charged with drunk driving can be a frightening experience. If you are facing a DWI charge for the first time, you may be unsure how to deal with it.

As drunk driving can endanger others, DWI charges can carry harsh penalties even for first time offenders with otherwise clean records. At Brill Legal Group, we offer representation to individuals who have been arrested for drunk driving in the New York area. Our DWI defense lawyer knows how to handle such cases and can provide you with a solid defense that preserves your driving privileges and keeps you out of jail.

Consequences of DUI/DWI First Offense Charges in New York

In New York, a DWI first offense is classified as a misdemeanor. Penalties for first time offenders depend on blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and other factors such as the driver’s age and whether the driver is designated as commercial.

A BAC of 0.08 percent or higher will result in a license suspension for a minimum of six months. Punishment typically increases for drivers who have a BAC over 0.18 percent and includes a one-year license suspension. An underage DWI first offense carries its own set of penalties.

If you are convicted of drunk driving as a first offense, you could face one or more of the following consequences:

• Up to one year in jail
• Fines ranging from $500 to $1,000 (or from $1,000 to$2500 if BAC is over 0.18)
• Revocation of driver’s license for six months or more
• Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for a minimum of six months

As part of New York’s zero tolerance policy for drunk driving, even a first time DWI offender is required to install an ignition interlock device. The IID is a breathalyzer-like mechanism that will not allow a car to start if it detects a certain level of alcohol.

The consequences of a DWI conviction can be serious and far-reaching. Without your driving privileges, you could experience potential loss of income if your job requires a driver’s license, and your personal life can be affected as well. A DWI conviction will also appear on your record permanently.

Fighting a DUI/DWI Charge

There is a lot at stake with even a drunk driving first offense. Let Brill Legal Group fight DWI charges on your behalf and defend your rights. We will strive to keep you on the road and pursue the best possible outcome for you in your DWI defense case.

Many of our clients are experiencing the criminal justice system for the first time, but our experienced DWI attorney knows how these types of cases play out. It is possible to obtain dismissal of charges or negotiate favorable plea agreements for individuals facing a first offense DWI/DUI charge in New York.

Contact us today for a free initial consultation. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. Your call will always be answered, no matter what time of day.