Being handcuffed for the first time is definitely one of those life-defining moments. One drink too many before heading home can lead to that moment. Sitting in jail waiting for the bail hearing in the morning will allow ample time for thinking. The consequences of this evening, especially in New York, are probably worse than expected. Finding an experienced lawyer as soon as possible would be an excellent idea.
Refusing or taking the chemical test makes a big difference. New York has an implied consent law, meaning that refusing the test leads to an automatic one year suspended license plus a fine. New York does not allow someone to plea bargain to a lesser offense than DWI. If convicted, the first DWI offense can land someone in jail for up to one year. In addition, the fine will be $500 to $1,000. Get used to walking or riding the bus, because your driver’s license will be suspended for at least six months. There will also be required alcohol screening and/or evaluation.
No one should face this without an experienced attorney. The arrest will likely impact both family and job. A conviction will have a negative impact on obtaining future jobs. An acquittal or conviction could hinge on a detail an inexperienced attorney would overlook. The right attorney will also explain what steps will need to be taken by the defendant to assure the court that the DWI will not be repeated.
Gregory R. LaMarca has a unique benefit to offer his clients. He spent years working for the ‘other side’ as a Special Investigation attorney, working with the District Attorney of Nassau County. This in-depth knowledge of the prosecutor’s office gives him a unique insight into cases not held by most attorneys. He now practices as a Criminal Attorney in Nassau County, NY, focusing his practice on criminal law, maritime law and personal injury cases. He received his Juris Doctorate from Touro College in Huntington in 1992 and holds memberships in the New York State Bar Association and the Connecticut Bar Association. Anyone who needs experienced legal representation after a DWI arrest should give very serious consideration to consulting with Greg LaMarca.
