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When it comes to Per Se DWI – don’t risk your family, your license, your job, or your financial future. Our Attorneys have the experience to defend you and fight your Per Se DWI charge. Our relationships and understanding of local courts, judges and prosecutors are key to helping our clients get the best possible legal outcomes.
Defending Per Se DWI Charges in New York State: Strategies and Considerations
In New York State (NYS), a Per Se DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charge is a specific type of drunk driving offense that is based on a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) level. This charge is separate from the common law DWI charge, which does not rely solely on BAC measurement but instead considers a person’s ability to operate a vehicle safely while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The term “Per Se” is a Latin phrase that means “in itself.” In the context of DWI charges, it indicates that a person can be charged with DWI solely based on their BAC level exceeding a certain legal limit, regardless of their actual impairment or driving behavior. In NYS, the Per Se limit for a DWI offense is typically set at 0.08% BAC for adult drivers. If a driver’s BAC is measured at or above this threshold, they can be charged with Per Se DWI, regardless of their ability to drive safely or any other mitigating factors.
Law enforcement officers in New York State use various methods, such as breathalyzer tests or blood tests, to determine a driver’s BAC when they suspect impairment. If the BAC measurement exceeds the legal limit, the driver can be arrested and charged with Per Se DWI, which carries its own set of legal consequences. However, it’s important to note that even if a driver’s BAC is below 0.08%, they can still face other DWI-related charges if their impairment is evident, and their ability to drive safely is compromised.
Penalties for Per Se DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charges in New York State (NYS) can be significant and may include both administrative and criminal consequences. It’s important to note that the specific penalties can vary based on factors such as the driver’s prior convictions and the circumstances of the case. Here’s an overview of the potential penalties for Per Se DWI charges in NYS:
- Criminal Penalties:
- First Offense: A first-time Per Se DWI offender in NYS may face fines, a driver’s license suspension, and probation. The duration of the license suspension can vary but typically ranges from six months to a year.
- Second Offense: If you have a prior DWI conviction within the past ten years, a second Per Se DWI offense may result in more severe penalties. These can include longer license suspension, mandatory attendance at alcohol education programs, and possible jail time.
- Third Offense: Multiple DWI convictions within a ten-year period can lead to even more severe penalties, including a longer license suspension, mandatory ignition interlock device installation, and the potential for felony charges.
- Administrative Penalties:
- Per Se DWI charges trigger administrative penalties through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in NYS. This may result in the immediate suspension of your driver’s license, even before a criminal trial. The duration of the suspension can vary based on the BAC level and prior convictions.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID):
- In some cases, the court may order the installation of an ignition interlock device on the offender’s vehicle. This device requires the driver to pass a breathalyzer test before the car can start, and it’s often mandatory for repeat offenders.
- Fines and Fees:
- Per Se DWI offenders can expect to pay fines and surcharges. The specific amount varies depending on the number of prior offenses and other circumstances.
- Probation and Parole:
- Probation or parole may be part of the sentencing for Per Se DWI offenses. This involves strict monitoring and adherence to certain conditions, such as drug and alcohol testing, and regular check-ins with a probation or parole officer.
- Alcohol Education Programs:
- Perpetrators might be required to attend alcohol education programs or substance abuse treatment as part of their sentencing, particularly for repeat offenders.
It’s important to remember that the penalties for Per Se DWI charges in NYS can be severe, and they become more stringent with each subsequent offense. Additionally, the specifics of the penalties can vary depending on the circumstances and individual case details. Legal counsel is highly recommended for anyone facing Per Se DWI charges to navigate the legal process and explore potential defenses or plea options.
Evaluating the Traffic Stop: The foundation of any Per Se DWI defense begins with a thorough examination of the traffic stop. Was there probable cause to initiate the stop? Were the proper procedures followed by law enforcement? Any violations of the defendant’s Fourth Amendment rights can significantly impact the case’s validity.
Challenging Sobriety Tests: Per Se DWI cases often involve field sobriety tests, which can be subjective and prone to human error. Our experienced attorneys meticulously scrutinize the administration of these tests to identify any inconsistencies or improper procedures that could undermine their reliability.
Questioning Chemical Tests: Chemical tests, such as breathalyzers, urine or blood tests, are crucial pieces of evidence in Per Se DWI cases. However, these tests are not infallible. Our legal team will investigate whether the testing equipment was properly calibrated, maintained, and operated by certified personnel. If there are discrepancies, the validity of the test results can be called into question.
Medical Conditions and Prescription Medications: Some medical conditions and prescription medications can lead to impaired driving without the presence of alcohol or illegal drugs. Our defense strategy explores the possibility of a medical condition or medication affecting the defendant’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Constructing Alternative Explanations: We work closely with our clients to gather detailed accounts of the events leading up to their Per Se DWI charge. By understanding the context and circumstances, we can build alternative explanations for their behavior that may not necessarily point to impairment.
Our legal team is well-versed in the nuanced laws of New York State, including its Per Se DWI statutes and sentencing guidelines. Depending on the specifics of the case, we can pursue various legal avenues:
Negotiating Reductions: Through skillful negotiation, we aim to secure reductions in charges or penalties, such as obtaining a plea deal to a lesser offense or pursuing enrollment in a substance abuse education program.
Challenging Evidence in Court: If necessary, we are prepared to take the case to trial. Our experienced litigators will present a strong defense, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge evidence in court to achieve the best possible outcome.
Protecting Driving Privileges: Per Se DWI convictions can result in the suspension or revocation of driving privileges. We will advocate for our clients to retain their driving rights whenever possible.
Facing a Per Se DWI charge in New York State can be a daunting experience, but the DWI Team is dedicated to providing unwavering support and exceptional legal representation. Our extensive knowledge of the legal landscape, combined with our commitment to protecting clients’ rights, empowers us to construct robust defense strategies tailored to each unique case. From dissecting the traffic stop to challenging sobriety tests and negotiating favorable outcomes, we stand as the shield against Per Se DWI charges, advocating for the best interests of our clients at every turn.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any other questions, please contact us at info@dwiteam.com
Please note that laws and regulations can change over time, so it’s important to consult with a legal professional or refer to official sources for the most up-to-date information regarding Per Se DWI in New York State.
Proven team that provides results through advocacy.
It is not so easy to find a DWI attorney. People sometimes treat, and attorneys represent DWI charges as if they were simple traffic tickets. As a result, it can dramatically affect someone’s job, finances, freedom, and their ability to be valued members of our society.
With the government having access to an unlimited amount of resources to convict people, many times, people are forced to plead guilty to something that they either were not guilty of or something that would affect the rest of their life.
That’s why if you are facing a DWI charge, you need a competent, experienced, and respected attorney to defend you. The DWI TEAM is comprised of some of the most accomplished DWI professionals in New York state. Nave Law Firm has brought together these exceptional professionals as The DWI TEAM to offer DWI defense services of the highest order. With Nave Law Firm’s leadership, The DWI TEAM provides our clients with seamless service using the most cutting edge defense strategies in seeking the best outcome possible in their case.
It is not so easy to find a DWI attorney. People sometimes treat, and attorneys represent DWI charges as if they were simple traffic tickets. As a result, it can dramatically affect someone’s job, finances, freedom, and their ability to be valued members of our society.
With the government having access to an unlimited amount of resources to convict people, many times, people are forced to plead guilty to something that they either were not guilty of or something that would affect the rest of their life.
That’s why if you are facing a DWI charge, you need a competent, experienced, and respected attorney to defend you. The DWI TEAM is comprised of some of the most accomplished DWI professionals in New York state. Nave Law Firm has brought together these exceptional professionals as The DWI TEAM to offer DWI defense services of the highest order. With Nave Law Firm’s leadership, The DWI TEAM provides our clients with seamless service using the most cutting edge defense strategies in seeking the best outcome possible in their case.
Why work with the DWI TEAM?
If you or a loved one has been charged with a DWI or any other driving offense, contact the DWI TEAM. We will carefully examine the specifics of your case, and if we do not feel we can help you, we will not take any money.
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They are amazing people will answer all your questions and make you feel very comfortable about your situation. Andrew and his team was the best thing i could have asked for, and they are very nice and fast with communication. Overall great people!
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