Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious crime with serious penalties. For that reason, it’s best to do whatever it takes to avoid putting yourself in a bad position.
However, everyone makes mistakes, so it’s not out of the question that you could get behind the wheel after you’ve had too much alcohol to drink.
Were you arrested?
Police throughout New York are on the lookout for people who appear to be driving under the influence of alcohol.
If you’re pulled over and subsequently arrested, it’s important that you take steps to protect your legal rights. For example, don’t say anything that could be used against you in a court of law.
Formal charges don’t always result in a conviction
Yes, you’re in a difficult spot at this point, but that doesn’t mean that a conviction is guaranteed. There are a variety of defense strategies you can employ in an attempt to avoid a conviction and the consequences that go along with it.
What happens if you’re convicted of DWI?
There’s no simple answer to this question, as it depends on a variety of details such as your blood alcohol level, if it was your first offense and if you committed any other crimes.
Some of the potential consequences of a DWI conviction include:
- Fine
- Community service
- License suspension or revocation
- Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device
- Jail time
- Loss of financial aid (if you’re a college student)
As you can see, all of these consequences have the potential to alter your life.
For example, if you drive for a living and your license is no longer valid, you won’t be able to work. As a result, you’ll find it challenging to provide for yourself and your loved ones.
With the potential consequences of a DWI conviction so severe, it’s critical that you take the time to learn more about your case, the charges and the defense strategies that are available to you.
The right approach can go a long way in helping you prevent a conviction, or at the very least minimize the punishment that you receive.