Facing a DWI charge in Ramapo, NY, can be overwhelming, especially when it jeopardizes your driving privileges, freedom, and reputation. Being arrested for a DWI can have severe financial, social, and legal consequences. An effective Ramapo DWI defense attorney can significantly improve the outcome when you or a loved one confronts such a charge.

At Greenspan & Greenspan, we’re committed to providing strategic legal advocacy. As a trusted law firm serving Ramapo, we combine deep local knowledge with extensive experience to defend our clients against various DWI cases and protect what matters most.

How Our Ramapo DWI Lawyer Can Help You

Partnering with Greenspan & Greenspan means having a dedicated advocate committed to protecting your rights and securing the best possible result in your DWI case. We carefully review police procedures, field sobriety tests, and breathalyzer accuracy to identify any errors or violations of rights that could undermine the prosecution’s case. Whether challenging flawed evidence or negotiating with prosecutors to reduce a DWI charge to a DWAI, we work tirelessly to minimize the penalties you face.

We know each case is unique, and we work with you to develop a defense plan that is specific to your circumstances. If your case proceeds to trial, our experienced attorneys will present a compelling defense designed to achieve a favorable outcome. 

We maintain clear communication throughout the process, ensuring that you are well-informed about your options and feel empowered to make decisions about your future.

What to Know About DWI Charges

New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 1192 outlines how those charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are prosecuted. These charges vary in severity, depending on factors such as blood alcohol content (BAC), the presence of drugs, and prior offenses. Let’s look at the various charges associated with a DWI in Ramapo.

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)

A standard DWI charge is issued when a driver’s BAC reaches 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the threshold is lower at 0.04%, reflecting the increased responsibility and safety standards required in their line of work. Typically, the prosecution charges a DWI as a misdemeanor for a first offense, but repeat offenses elevate it to a felony.

Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated (Aggravated DWI)

Because extreme levels of intoxication pose a higher risk, drivers with a BAC of 0.18% or higher get charged with aggravated DWI. Usually, this more serious charge results in harsher penalties than a standard DWI. Penalties for aggravated DWI tend to include higher fines, longer license suspensions, and stricter court-ordered interventions, such as alcohol treatment programs.

Driving While Ability Impaired by Alcohol (DWAI-Alcohol)

This lesser charge applies to drivers with a BAC between 0.05% and 0.07%. While less severe than a DWI, a DWAI is still a traffic infraction with significant consequences, including fines, points on your driving record, and possible license suspension.

Driving While Ability Impaired by a Single Drug Other Than Alcohol (DWAI-Drugs)

This charge applies when a driver operates a vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance or prescription medication that impairs their ability to drive safely. Unlike DWAI-Alcohol, DWAI-Drugs is a criminal misdemeanor with stricter penalties and lasting effects on your criminal record and license status.

Driving While Ability Impaired by a Combination of Substances (DWAI-Combination)

This charge is for drivers under the influence of both alcohol and drugs, which amplifies the level of impairment and increases the risks to public safety. Like DWAI-Drugs, this charge carries criminal penalties, including fines, probation, and potential jail time.

Zero Tolerance Law for Drivers Under 21

New York enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21 caught with a BAC between 0.02% and 0.07%. Although not a criminal offense, violating this law results in administrative penalties, such as license suspension, fines, and participation in an alcohol education program.

Potential Penalties for a DWI in Ramapo

These charges impose penalties such as:

• Fines,
• Mandatory attendance at a Victim Impact Panel,
• Participation in the Impaired Driver Program (IDP),
• License suspension or revocation, and
• Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID).

Drivers face long-term consequences, such as a permanent criminal record or increased insurance premiums. Considering the high stakes involved, seeking legal guidance from an experienced Ramapo DWI attorney is crucial.

New York’s Ignition Interlock Device Requirement

New York law mandates that those convicted of a DWI install an IID on their vehicle for at least six months. This breathalyzer-like device prevents a car from starting if it detects alcohol in the driver’s system. Our team helps clients understand the IID requirements and compliance process to avoid further penalties.

Contact a DWI Defense Attorney at Greenspan & Greenspan

At Greenspan & Greenspan, our team combines decades of experience and profound local knowledge to provide respectful and effective advocacy. Whether challenging flawed evidence, negotiating reduced charges, or dealing with complex IID requirements, your attorney will find the right approach to fit your unique needs. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Resources: 

• Chapter 9: Alcohol and Other Drugs. New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, link
• Impaired Driver Program. NYS DMV, link
• Victim Impact Panels. STOP-DMV, link
• Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). NY Courts, link
• Frequently Asked Questions About DWI and Leandra’s Law. Division of Criminal Justice Services, link
• Leandra’s Law & Ignition Interlock Devices. NYS DMV, link