DWI Attorney in Westchester County

Everybody makes mistakes in life. If every action a person made was known to law enforcement, there are likely very few people who wouldn’t have a criminal record. If you’ve been pulled over for driving while intoxicated (DWI), one of these mistakes can turn very costly. However, this isn’t always necessary. With an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side, it is possible to secure a more positive outcome. A DWI lawyer in White Plains, NY may be able to help.

At Greenspan & Greenspan, we know that the penalties for drunk driving or Driving While Ability Impaired by drugs other than alcohol (DWAI/Drugs) can be disastrous. You could lose your ability to drive, face mandatory fines and jail time, owe fees related to ignition interlock devices, and much more. When you work with our DWI lawyers in White Plains, NY, we’ll strive for reduced penalties, lesser sentences, and even the potential for dropping all DWI charges.

Contact our law firm today for a free consultation.

Is There Any Defense to DWI Criminal Charges?

Whenever someone considers hiring a DWI experienced attorney, their first question is often, “Do I have any possible defense” or “Is there any way I can beat this charge?” This is an understandable question. After all, judges and juries will often take the word of a police officer over someone charged with a crime. Additionally, many people believe that a failed breathalyzer test leaves little room for claiming innocence.

In reality, there are many potential defenses to DWI charges. For instance, what if there was a problem with the breathalyzer? What about situations where there wasn’t enough evidence to prove impairment? Did the officer possibly mess up by not recording the stop? Better yet, were any of your constitutional rights violated? Even in cases where a defendant appears “dead to rights,” a White Plains DWI attorney may be able to negotiate a beneficial plea deal.

What’s the Difference Between DUI and DWI?

Many people — particularly those from out of state — may be more familiar with the term driving under the influence (DUI). In many states, DUI and DWI have two different meanings. Driving while intoxicated often refers to operating a vehicle while intoxicated. However, DUI is much broader and can include drunk driving or driving while under the influence of other drugs. However, the term “DUI” does not exist under New York state law.

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is the correct legal terminology used in New York for drunk driving. Such a charge typically comes when someone has a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or higher. Drivers impaired by other substances will usually see a charge of DWAI/Drugs rather than DWI. If someone is charged with DWAI, it means police officers believed there was evidence of alcohol-impaired driving — even if someone’s blood alcohol concentration was not over the legal limit of 0.08 percent.

Arrested for a DWI? Get Trusted Legal Representation in White Plains!

What Are the Different Types of DWI Charges?

We’ve already discussed the differences between DWI, DWAI, and DWAI/Drugs. However, it’s important to know that there are many other charges related to intoxicated driving. It’s important to understand these because — at any given point — the District Attorney may upgrade the charges against you. This is often done as a scare tactic to convince you to take a plea deal. Additional charges may include:

• Aggravated DWI
• Chemical test refusal
• Probation violation
• Repeat offenders
• Commercial driver DWI
• Underage DWI (Zero Tolerance Law)
• Resisting arrest
• DWI with a child passenger
• Manslaughter

Whether you face heightened criminal charges will depend entirely upon the circumstances of your case. There’s no guarantee how the charges against you will play out, but it may be in your best interest to contact a White Plains DWI attorney.

At Greenspan & Greenspan, our law office can assist you with a free consultation right over the phone. Considering the potential penalties you may face, our free consultation might be the smartest decision you ever make.