New York First-Time DUI Lawyer

First-Time DWI/DUI Offense

Being accused of driving under the influence can be a scary time in your life. The best way to combat this fear is to speak with a New York first-time DWI/DUI lawyer who can help explain the legal process to you. Once you understand what may happen next and what may be expected of you, it will make the situation less worrying.

You should also know that you are not alone, and a skilled DWI DUI attorney can advocate for you.

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How Does New York Define DWI / DUI?

Instead of the more common term of DWI DUI, New York uses the acronyms DWI and DWAI to differentiate driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence of alcohol.

The phrase Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is for drivers influenced by any intoxication. A person accused of a DWI must have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or display other signs of intoxication.

For drivers who have consumed alcohol, the phrase is Driving While Ability Impaired by Alcohol (DWAI). For a DWAI, the BAC of the driver is above .05 but less than 0.7. There is another law for drivers with a BAC of .18 or higher referred to as Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated (ADWI).

Lastly, for drivers under the age of 21 with a BAC of .02 to .07, the state has a zero-tolerance law. Someone facing a DUI offense must speak with a New York first-time DUI lawyer to understand which type of charge they may face accurately.

Consequences for a DWI and DWAI

The penalties in New York vary greatly depending on whether it is a first, second, or third offense. If this is the first incident, an individual will face a much more reduced outcome. One should also know the difference between a revoked and suspended license.

A revoked license is complete removal of a license, requiring an individual to reapply for a new one. With a suspended license, a person can begin driving again once the period has passed.

First-Time DUI/DWI?

For a first-time DWI, the fine can range from $500 to $1,000. While there may be a chance of a jail sentence, the maximum for a first-time offense is one year.
However, the driver must have their license revoked for at least six months for a first-time DWI.

Alcohol DWAI

For a DWAI specifically for alcohol, the acceptable ranges from $300 to $500. The maximum potential jail sentence is 15 days. Lastly, the driver will have their license suspended for 90 days. Under the zero-tolerance law, the driver has to pay a $125 civil fee and a $100 fee to terminate the suspension. There is no jail time, but the license will be suspended for six months.

Drug DWAI

For a DWAI specifically for drugs, the fine will also range from $500 to $1,000. Again, there is the possibility of a jail sentence, but the maximum is one year. Finally, for a first-time DWAI with drugs, the driver will have their license suspended for at least six months.

If the DWAI is based on a combination of alcohol and drugs, the fine and jail terms are the same, but the driver will have their license revoked for at least six months.

Satisfied Client Reviews

I’m from California. I didn’t know who to turn too. Don’t know the laws and obviously don’t know the which roads to turn on in NYC. Thankfully I was able to get my DUI dismissed. Moral of the story, don’t drive with any alcohol in your system. Also check out Kugel Law Firm and Rachel and her amazing team if your in trouble.

Alex Moqadam

I chose The Kugel Law Firm based on the reviews that are so good that it was a bit suspicious. But make no mistake - they are all well-deserved. No outcome in the court system is guaranteed but Rachel will go out of her way to fight for you. She is a walking encyclopedia when it comes to this stuff and on top of that, she is super friendly and always available to talk and break things down for you. If you've found yourself in the unfortunate situation of a DWI then look no further. I can't imagine anybody better. Thanks Rachel!

Matthew Park

The level of knowledge, professionalism and service from Kugel Law is fantastic. Unfortunately, I've had experience with a number of firms over the years - Rachel and her team are top notch in comparison. I contacted, and spoke with Rachel, when searching and evaluating counsel for a family member. In a short period of conversation, I was comfortable, at ease and confident in their representation. They took a long view in managing a very difficult situation that ultimately resulted in a reduction of the charges that I never thought possible - a tremendous outcome from tremendous people.

Robert Taylor

Rachel is a fantastic lawyer and was help to help resolve my DUI with the best poasible outcome. She explained everything to me in detail to help me understand all of my options. Additionally Linda in her office was always extremely responsive and helpful and they were just a pleasure to work with! I am very happy with the outcome of my case and would reccommend Rachel's services to anyone who needs them!

Jennifer Parisi

Helpful, kind, and had my best interest in mind all the way through. Mrs. Kugel has been extremely generous with her time explaining each step of the process clearly and in easy to understand terms. The Kugel Law Firm delivered results exceeding my high expectations, in other words, completely dismissed.

Aaron Ross

At a time when my options were limited to non-existent, I contacted Kugel Law firm. That’s when I met Rachel. I never needed a lawyer before and was unsure of where to start. Rachel and Linda were kind, empathetic, calm and always a phone call away. Thanks to her, my case received the best possible solution. My case was closed, fully dismissed. OVER! I highly recommend her, if you need help. Rachel is the one!

Shana Davis

I must admit I didn't think it was anyway I could have gotten around my DUI and REFUSING... I'm glad I chosen the KUGEL LAW FIRM.. (RACHEL)knock it out the park all charges dismissed and 4 other miscellaneous tickets as well. She's who you need worth ever Dollar and more...

Khalid Harris

This law firm turned a traumatic experience into a bearable one. Rachel and her staff were very communicative and honest about the process. That meant everything and also made us happy about our favorable outcome.

Asia Collington

I never been in a situation where it required a lawyer. So happy I went to the Kugel law firm. Rachel was supportive, honest, and cared more beyond just a check she was receiving from me. She checked up on me without me having to go serve for her. She always explained each outcome and possibilities and made me feel supportive during a horrific situation. Defiantly recommend to have you back and represent you in a case.

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Should I Hire an DWI/DUI Lawyer for a First Offense?

If you are in a situation where you are being accused of driving under the influence, it is helpful to speak to a lawyer to understand what exactly you are being charged with. New York has several different laws depending on your BAC, differentiating between alcohol and drugs.

Since New York does not charge drivers with a DWI/DUI, a lawyer can explain if you are charged with a DWAI, DWI, or fall within the zero-tolerance law. A New York first-time DUI lawyer can also help you fight these charges to avoid the maximum punishment.

Schedule a no-cost, no-risk case consultation with the Leading New York-New Jersey DWI/DUI Law Firm, The Kugel Law Firm.

New York (212) 372-7218 | New Jersey (973) 854-0098

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