Drinking and driving laws vary throughout the U.S. ; for instance, in New York the driver is not obligated to take the chemical test once pulled over. Keep that in mind when you see those red lights in the rearview mirror. You should also remember that if you are pulled over you need to consult with a New York DWI/DUI lawyer. Unlike other states, you have the right to consult a lawyer before you decide to undergo chemical testing, so be sure to request an attorney before you do anything else.

New York Laws

If you are caught drunk-driving with an illegal BAC (blood alcohol content), you can be fined, imposed with a mandatory community service sentence, serve jail time, and lose your driver’s license for a minimum of a year. If you are a minor, the penalties are even worse. You could lose your license until the age of 21. In addition to the legal case, an administrative action may also be brought against you with the New York Department of Motor Vehicles. This action may result in the loss of your license. While each offense comes with corresponding penalties and punishments for the guilty, a simple call to the right New York DWI/DUI lawyer will ensure that you have a fighting chance.

Finding the Right Attorney

The state of New York is not lacking in intelligent DUI/DWI lawyers. Once pulled over, immediately call and look for legal assistance. Find a qualified attorney to ensure a successful defense. New York DUI/DWI lawyers are the best in their lot, and choosing the right one should not be difficult. Here are some things you might want to consider:

• Choose an attorney with some background in the field. You need an attorney who knows the field well and can anticipate the prosecution’s every move.
• Choose an attorney with a good record of DWI/DUI wins.
• Choose an attorney you can afford. Ask about retainer fees and payment plans. Not every attorney will be able to work with your financial circumstances, and if you cannot afford to hire an attorney be sure to request a court appointed lawyer.

Being charged with a DUI or DWI is not the end of the world. Have courage because there are DUI and DWI cases that are released due to some very basic technicalities. Skilled and knowledgeable DUI/DWI lawyers understand the intricacies and can navigate their way through the system. The more qualified the lawyer the greater the chance that you could be found not guilty of the charges; at the very least, a good lawyer should be able to reduce the sentence so that you can move forward with your life.

DUI and DWI laws in New York might be too complicated for you to understand on your own. The right lawyers can make a big difference. Contact one today.