It is illegal to be driving while intoxicated in any state, but each state will have different statutes as to the proper course of action for DWI offenses. In general, DWI offenses are influenced by the person’s age, blood alcohol limit (BAC) and whether or not they have been arrested for DWI offenses in the past.  Driving while intoxicated will be a permanent mark on anyone’s record, but just hoe deep that mark is, will vary from case to case.

 

Deciding whether or not to hire a New York DWI attorney is a personal choice. And before someone chooses to hire one, there are some things to consider. First and foremost, a specialized New York attorney can assess the person’s legal situation. An experienced New York DWI lawyer can help someone understand what they are up against and the fines they might be required to pay.  For first time DUI offenses, this will especially help alleviate a lot of stress and anxiety in dealing with the unknown. Many DWI attorneys in Suffolk County only deal with DWI offenses and know the process inside and out; including options that a public defender may not know.  In addition, many New York DWI defense lawyers offer a free consultation, which may be worthwhile if someone doesn’t understand the process.

 

DWI defense attorneys will be able to explain and lay out the consequences of DUI offense. The consequences of a DWI vary greatly from case to case and a New York DWI lawyer will be able to explain how those consequences apply to the person, such as harsher punishments for those arrested with BAC limits over .08 (the highest limit in most states), special laws for underage drivers arrested for DWI, possible community service or plea bargaining, and the application of an Extreme hardship license that allow the person to use their vehicle to get to and from work.

 

DWI attorney lawyers will also help manage the process. Dealing with a state’s motor vehicle department can be frustrating and time consuming. A DWI lawyer can manage the process by completing the required forms, making phone calls, and the necessary arrangements.

 

The DWI attorney will represent the person in court. An experienced DWI lawyer knows the ins and outs of the courtroom and may be able to obtain a lesser sentence for someone if their situation and state law allow for it. The DWI attorney knows the personnel involved and what arguments work best for each situation.

 

The ultimate decision to hire a New York DWI lawyer depends on personal and financial situations, where the offense has taken place (as some tend to be more strict), and the person’s ability to handle the process on their own. It helps to have a DWI attorney if someone has multiple DUI offenses, or needs help understanding the whole DWI case proceedings.