Carmel Underage DWI Lawyer

New York Underage Drunk Driving Laws

New York law prohibits underage drivers from driving after consuming alcohol, even when the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is under the legal limit. The state’s underage driving per se law is used to charge underage motorists with a blood-alcohol content of .02% or greater, regardless of ability to safely operate the vehicle.

This charge is not handled by a criminal court but in a hearing by the Department of Motor Vehicles and decided by a DMV commissioner.

Criminal charges for DWI in New York are possible for drivers with a BAC of .08% or higher and any extent of impairment by drugs, alcohol, or both. Drivers under the age of 21 with a BAC that exceeds the legal limit face even higher penalties than adult drivers in underage DWI cases.

Are you facing charges for an underage DWI? Contact us online or call (845) 584-7033 to schedule your free consultation with our experienced underage DWI lawyers in Carmel, NY, today!

What are the Penalties for an Underage DWI in New York?

Penalties for DWI per se in New York may include a fine and a six-month license suspension. When an underage person is charged with DWI or DWI per se, it is important to contact an attorney with specific knowledge in this area of law. Keith R. Murphy represents clients charged with Carmel underage DWI. Legal representation is tailored to the specifics of the case to meet the needs of each client.

Penalties for underage motorists may include:

• A one-year driver’s license suspension
• The full period of the suspension remains, even with the Impaired Driver Program
• One year license suspension and a $500 fine for refusing to take a BAC test
• A second offense can result in license suspension until the age of 21

Defending Against Underage DWI Charges

At The Law Office of Keith R. Murphy, we understand the unique challenges that underage drivers face when charged with drunk driving offenses. Our underage DWI lawyers in Carmel will work tirelessly to protect your rights and minimize the possible consequences of an underage DWI conviction. Some of the defense strategies we could employ include:

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop
• Questioning the accuracy of field sobriety tests that were conducted
• Examining the reliability of breathalyzer or blood test results
• Investigating whether proper procedures were followed at the time of the arrest

We aim to achieve the best possible outcome for your case, whether that means getting charges reduced or dismissed, negotiating a favorable plea agreement, or battling for your innocence at trial.

Common Mistakes in Handling Underage DWI Charges

Many underage individuals charged with DWI in New York make critical mistakes during and after their arrest that can significantly impact the outcome of their case. One of the most common errors is speaking to law enforcement without an attorney present, potentially providing self-incriminating statements. Additionally, some opt to plead guilty without exploring their legal options, underestimating the long-term consequences of a DWI on their record. Many also fail to contest the administrative license suspension, missing an opportunity to retain their driving privileges during the legal process. Ignoring the seriousness of the charge and not seeking experienced legal representation can drastically diminish the chances of a favorable outcome.

How an Underage DWI Defense Attorney Can Help

An experienced underage DWI defense attorney plays a crucial role in navigating the complexities of DWI charges for underage drivers. Here's how they can help avoid the common mistakes:

• Providing Immediate Legal Representation: An attorney will ensure you do not make incriminating statements to law enforcement that could harm your case.
• Evaluating All Legal Options: Your lawyer will explore every possible defense strategy to determine the best course of action, potentially avoiding the long-term consequences of a DWI conviction.
• Challenging License Suspension: They can represent you in administrative hearings, arguing against the suspension of your license and seeking to maintain your driving privileges.
• Negotiating with Prosecutors: An attorney with experience in DWI cases may be able to negotiate lesser charges or alternative penalties that minimize the impact on your future.
• Expert Defense Strategies: Utilizing their knowledge and experience, they can challenge the traffic stop's legality, the accuracy of sobriety tests, and the integrity of the evidence against you.
• Personalized Legal Guidance: Understanding that each case is unique, they provide tailored advice and strategies suited to the specifics of your situation, aiming for the best possible outcome.

Seeking the help of an attorney can make a significant difference in the resolution of your case, helping to avoid common pitfalls and providing a defense strategy aimed at reducing or even dismissing the charges.

Contact Our Underage DWI Lawyer in Carmel Today

The laws for drinking and driving in the state of New York are different for drivers under the age of 21. There are increased penalties for DWI, and driving after consuming any amount of alcohol is against the law for underage motorists. The Law Office of Keith R. Murphy serves as a highly skilled Carmel underage DWI attorney throughout the Putnam County area.

Contact The Law Office of Keith R. Murphy today at (845) 584-7033 for a free consultation with a Carmel underage DWI lawyer.