Judges take driving while intoxicated (DWI) seriously, a fact that is reflected in the legal penalties that often result from a conviction. The steps you take immediately after being charged could impact your freedom and your finances for many years to come.
Fortunately, you do not have to face your DWI charges alone. Working with an experienced law firm can improve your chances of obtaining the best possible outcome. Drivers have a trusted legal ally with The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers.
Step 1: Remain Silent
The worst thing you can do after being charged with a DWI is to continue answering police questions. You will likely be placed under arrest, at which point the officer should read you your Miranda rights. These include the right to remain silent, which you should exercise.
Understand that by continuing to answer questions, you are only giving the police more evidence to use against you. They are not going to drop the charges or let you free at this point. Remain silent, especially because you may “admit” to things that are not even true.
Step 2: Retain an Experienced New York Attorney
This is where we come in. Our firm has extensive experience handling DWI charges and seeking the most advantageous results for our clients. The right attorney can assist you by:
- Helping you understand the charges against you
- Investigating the facts surrounding the DWI charge
- Determining whether law enforcement violated your rights or any procedural requirements in questioning or charging you
- Acquiring evidence which may lead to charges getting reduced or dismissed
- Working out a plea bargain, if possible, so you can avoid more serious penalties
- Representing you in court if necessary with a compelling legal defense
This is our pledge to our clients, and you can expect professionalism and committed advocacy in your corner from the first day you hire us to represent you.
Step 3: Post Bail If Possible
You might be required to post bail, depending on the facts of your case. If you are able to pay the upfront fee that a bond company will charge you, the company might post your bail for you.
However, you should be on your best behavior up to and after posting bail. This means staying out of trouble and abiding by the conditions set for your bail. It is also strongly recommended that you stay away from alcohol while you are out on bail.
Lastly, be sure you attend all court hearings. Otherwise, the judge will revoke your bond, you will be arrested, and overall your standing in the court will be poor. Ask your New York DWI attorney about how to make sure you follow the conditions that attach to bail.
Step 4: Prepare for Arraignment
An arraignment is a court hearing in which the judge informs the defendant of the charges against them and requires the defendant to enter a plea. A defendant can plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Your New York drunk driving defense attorney can explain how pleas work.
It’s important to review the facts of your case and be upfront with your attorney at all times. By understanding the evidence and the circumstances of your DWI charges, your lawyer can advise you on the best way to handle your arraignment and your case in general.
Possible Outcomes of Your DWI Charge
A first-time conviction for DWI in New York is a misdemeanor, but don’t let the term fool you into thinking it’s not serious. Possible penalties include:
- A fine of $500 to $1,000
- Points on your driving record
- Up to one year in jail
- Up to one year of license revocation
Subsequent convictions can lead to such penalties as:
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Up to seven years in jail
- A one-year driver’s license suspension
This is to say nothing of the consequential problems like years of higher automobile insurance premiums and a criminal record (plus the problems that come with it). Limits on your freedom, like having to install an ignition interlock system on your vehicle, are guaranteed.
Hiring an Attorney: One of the Most Important Steps You Can Take
You need legal representation to fight these and other possible outcomes of a DWI. If you’ve been charged, call The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers. You can also complete our online contact form to get started today.
Any judges before whom you appear will expect you to know the relevant laws and procedures. This is why hiring an attorney is so important. We handle all aspects of DWI cases and work for the best possible results for our clients.
