Consequences of Being Charged with DWI New York

Being charged with a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) in New York can have serious consequences. DWI laws in New York are strict and penalties can range from fines to jail time, depending on the severity of the offense. Here are some of the potential consequences of being charged with a DWI in New York.

1. Criminal Record: A DWI conviction in New York will result in a criminal record that can follow you for the rest of your life. This can impact future job prospects, housing, and even your ability to travel.
2. License Suspension: Your driver’s license will be suspended for a period of time if you are convicted of a DWI in New York. The length of the suspension will depend on the severity of the offense and whether or not it is a first-time offense.
3. Fines: DWI fines in New York can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the offense. These fines can put a strain on your finances and impact your ability to pay bills and support your family.
4. Increased Insurance Rates: Your auto insurance rates will likely increase significantly if you are convicted of a DWI in New York. This increase can last for several years and result in thousands of dollars in additional expenses.
5. Ignition Interlock Device: If you are convicted of a DWI in New York, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. This device requires you to pass a breathalyzer test before starting your car and can be expensive to install and maintain.
6. Jail Time: Depending on the severity of the offense, a DWI conviction in New York can result in jail time. Even a first-time offense can result in up to one year in jail.
7. Community Service: You may be required to perform community service as part of your DWI sentence in New York. This can impact your work schedule and family responsibilities.
8. Alcohol Treatment Programs: In some cases, a DWI conviction in New York may require you to complete an alcohol treatment program. This can be time-consuming and expensive, but may also be a helpful step in addressing underlying addiction issues.

In summary, being charged with a DWI in New York can have serious consequences that can impact your life for years to come. It’s important to take these charges seriously and work with an experienced attorney to minimize the impact on your life. It’s also important to recognize the danger of drinking and driving, and to always make safe choices when operating a vehicle.