In New York, driving while intoxicated is a serious charge that can lead to harsh penalties for a convicted driver. Though most, if not all, drivers have heard of the charge of DWI, many do not know about the process following a DWI arrest. New York DWI law is complicated, as is the legal process of defending against such a charge. If you or a loved one has been recently charged with a DWI or related offense, contact the experienced attorneys at Nave DWI Defense Attorneys. Our lawyers will work closely with you through the entire process, and will aggressively defend you against DWI. Contact us now at 1-866-792-7800 or online for a free case evaluation.
DWI Law in New York
Under New York law, a DWI is defined as operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of at least 0.08%. There is quite the legal process between a DWI arrest and a possible conviction. This process can be lengthy and confusing for any driver facing such a serious charge. Drivers convicted of a first-time DWI will face up to one year in jail; a maximum fine of $1,000 (in addition to a mandatory surcharge of $400); a minimum 6-month license revocation; and required installation/maintenance of ignition interlock device for 1 year in every vehicle the motorist owns or operates.
Getting Out of Jail
Though there are many steps in the legal process, one that is of particular concern to arrested drivers is being bailed out of jail. Bail is a way for the court system to ensure that a driver released after his or her arrest will return to court for future hearings or trial. Most commonly, bail is a set monetary amount that the arrested driver’s family or friends can pay for the driver’s release. If bail is permitted and paid, the driver does not have to stay in jail throughout the entire legal process. Not every driver facing DWI is required to pay bail; some are released after promising to show up for future court dates. A judge makes the determination of whether a driver can be released with or without bail.
Drivers released on bail are certainly not off the hook for their charges. They are merely free from police custody while their case is pending. Drivers who pay their bail but fail to show up to court for scheduled hearings can face additional charges, and the money paid as paid will almost certainly be forfeited. One man facing a New York DWI recently learned this the hard way after “jumping” bail. The man was arrested for failing to show up to court after police spotted his picture in an area newspaper.
At Nave DWI Defense Attorneys, our attorneys have spent years successfully defending New York drivers charged with DWI and related offenses. We will aggressively defend you against your charges, and will fight to protect your rights. Have you been recently charged with a DWI or related offense? Contact the highly trained, highly skilled DWI lawyers at Nave DWI Defense Attorneys now for a free case evaluation.
DISCLAIMER: The exclusive purpose of this article is educational and it is not intended as either legal advice or a general solution to any specific legal problem. Corporate offices for Nave DWI Defense Attorneys are located at 432 N. Franklin Street, Suite 80, Syracuse, NY 13204; Telephone No.: 1-866-792-7800. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Attorney Advertising.
