Facing a driving under the influence (DUI) charge in New York can be overwhelming, as this criminal offense carries harsh penalties and long-term consequences. However, not all DUI charges result in convictions. In some cases, it’s possible to receive a plea deal in which a DUI charge is reduced to a lesser sentence. Please continue reading to learn more about this matter and why connecting with a dedicated Rockland County DUI Attorney is in your best interest.
What Constitutes a DUI?
If you operate a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol in New York, you can face DUI charges. This can be charged to anyone found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at or over the legal limit of 0.08%. However, you can face a DUI for having any amount of alcohol in your system if an officer determines it has impacted your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
While most people are familiar with the short-term consequences of a DUI, such as driver’s license suspension, fines, and potential jail time, they are unaware of the long-term ramifications. Even after you have fulfilled your legal obligations, a DUI conviction can impact future opportunities and haunt you for years. As such, if you are facing DUI charges in New York, it’s in your best interest to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable Rockland County DUI attorney, who can defend your rights.
Is it Possible to Have My DUI Charge Reduced?
If you have been charged with DUI, the prosecution may be willing to negotiate a plea bargain. A plea bargain or plea deal is an arrangement in which a defendant pleads guilty to a criminal offense rather than having the prosecutor prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in court. In exchange for pleading guilty, the prosecutor will make some type of concession to the defendant, such as charging them with a less serious offense.
Depending on the unique circumstances of your case, if you have no prior DUI convictions, a relatively low BAC reading, and no accidents occurred, the prosecution may reduce a DUI charge to driving while ability impaired (DWAI). A DUI is classified as a misdemeanor, and therefore a criminal charge. However, a DWAI is considered a violation, which is not a crime. While these offenses carry similar penalties, a DWAI will not result in a criminal record.
Nevertheless, despite the potential benefits of entering a plea agreement, it’s in your best interest to consult a seasoned DUI attorney from The Law Office of Carl Spector, who can help determine the best course of action given the circumstances of your situation. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can fight for your future.
