Defending New Yorkers from a Drug DWI conviction
Driving while under the influence of drugs is a serious crime. Those charged with driving while under the influence of drugs are facing a misdemeanor with similar consequences to a DWI offense. New York courts are hostile towards DWI offenders, and if you have been caught driving under the influence of a drug, you also face the consequences of a drug charge and its overwhelming ensuing penalties. Drug offenses and drug-related DWAI offenses can burden you with fines and consequences that can affect your life and livelihood. Contact KCS Law for the experience needed to fight charges of a DWAI-Drug offense.
DWAI-Drug offense explained
In New York, driving under the influence of drugs is called Driving While Impaired by Drugs (DWAI-Drug). If you are pulled over by a police officer who believes you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may demand you take a field sobriety test to determine if you are under the influence. If you fail the test, you may be brought to a station for a blood test to determine if you are under the influence of a drug. If you are charged with a DWAI-Drug offense, you are facing similar consequences as a DWI offender.
First offense DWAI-Drug consequences explained
Similar to a first DWI offense, those who are charged with a first offense DWAI-Drug charge face fines and penalties from the misdemeanor. If convicted, you are facing:
- Fines ranging from $500- $1,000
- Possible jail time up to 1 year
- A suspended license for a minimum of 6 months
- State surcharges and assessment fines
In addition, one might be eligible for a conditional license or a conditional driving privilege if you participate in the Drinking Driver Program (DDP). This program comes with its own fees and assessments.
Second offense DWAI-Drug consequences explained
Similar to a second DWI offense, those charged with their second DWAI-Drug offense within 10 years face escalating penalties. In New York State, a second DWAI-Drug offense is a Class E felony and if convicted, comes with consequences including:
- Fines ranging from $1,000-$5,000
- Possible jail time up to 4 years
- A revoked license for at least 1 year
- State surcharges and assessment fines
In addition, the court may mandate participation in the Drinking Driver Program (DDP), which comes with its own fees and assessments.
Third offense DWAI-Drug consequences explained
Similar to a third DWI/DUI offense, those charged with their second DWAI-Drug offense within 10 years face severe penalties for their crime. In New York State, a third DWAI-Drug offense is a Class D felony and, if convicted, comes with penalties including:
- Fines ranging from $2,000-$10,000
- Possible jail time up to 7 years
- A revoked license for at least 1 year
- State surcharges and assessment fines
A third offense is a serious crime. Judges and courts will be aggressive towards the violation. It is in your best interest to contact KCS Law for your legal needs.
DWAI- Combination explained
Similar to other first, second, and third offenses, driving while ability impaired by a combination of alcohol and drugs is a serious offense. A first offense is a misdemeanor with penalties that mirror a first offense DWI conviction. Accordingly, the subsequent offenses mirror DWI and DWAI-Drug offenses and are felonies.
A firm that has the experience you need
KCS Law has years of experience with DWAI-Drug charges and the persistence and diligence to guide clients towards the best possible conclusion to their matter. Many avenues of defense could alleviate the burden of a conviction or have the charges dismissed altogether. Call KCS Law for a consultation.
