Drunk driving is a serious legal matter that carries with it significant consequences for individuals who are convicted and charged with DWI crimes. A drunk driving conviction is more than a black mark or points on a person’s driving record – it is the possible loss of one’s driving privileges, the chance of spending time in jail, and the possibility of paying heavy fines. In New York, drunk driving charges are brought based on different factual situations and evidence, but individuals should know that when they are charged with DWI crimes, they have options. Their knowledgeable DWI defense attorneys can guide them through the possible paths they may pursue to protect their rights.
For many people facing DWI charges, the most life-altering consequence that they may face is losing their right to drive. Many individuals depend on their driving privileges to get to work, provide for their families, and to support themselves and their communities. Without the legal option to drive, many would struggle to hold down work and maintain their financial health.
Even when facing DWI charges, individuals should know that they have options for maintaining some or all of their driving privileges. As with all legal matters, however, the outcome of individual DWI cases cannot be predicted or guaranteed. The options discussed in this post are offered as information and not legal advice or guidance.
For example, in New York, drivers may be able to secure conditional licenses if they are facing or convicted of DWI crimes. A conditional license is a license that allows a person to drive to certain places, such as their job, child’s school, the DMV, and others even if their full license has been restricted due to a DWI crime. A commercial license, such as one that may be required to drive a large truck, may not be given conditional status.
Also, in some cases drivers charged and convicted with DWI crimes may be required to put ignition interlock devices into their vehicles. These devices require drivers to blow into them and register alcohol-free breath readings in order to start their vehicles. Whether a driver must use an ignition interlock device for their conditional license is dependent on factors that are related to their specific case.
Drunk driving charges are serious and should be taken seriously by those who are facing them. Finding the right legal representation to defend one’s self from DWI allegations is important so that an individual feels comfortable with their attorney and confident in their partnership. Different legal strategies will serve the needs of different drunk driving cases and therefore individual representation can benefit those with pending criminal charges.