Prior DWI Convictions

The Consequences of conviction in a 2nd, 3rd or 4th DWI

Drunk driving laws in New York State are some of the toughest in the country, and those who are charged with DWI are aggressively prosecuted and punished. There are a wide variety of penalties associated with the various levels of DWI within the law. While first-time offenders may face stiff penalties, multiple DWI charges can quickly turn into a nightmare, as you will be facing felony charges in most cases. If you have been convicted of an earlier DWI and are facing new charges, be sure to speak with a Long Island DWI attorney as soon as possible to have the best chance at a successful defense.

DWI penalties for those drivers who have more than one DWI conviction can increase substantially from the penalties that first-time offenders must face. A second offense is a class E felony which carries a minimum of 5 days to 4 years in jail, 30 days of mandatory community service, financial fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, a 1-year minimum driver's license suspension and mandatory installation of the ignition interlock device. A third conviction upgrades the felony to class D, jail time to a minimum of 10 days to 7 years, 60 days of community service, financial penalties from $2,000 to $10,000 as well as a mandatory surcharge, alcohol assessment, installation of the ignition interlock device, and a 1-year minimum license suspension.

Avoiding Multiple DWI Convictions

Jacoby & Jacoby have worked for over 50 years and have extensive knowledge of DWI defense, the court system, and how to best move forward with defending against a DWI when our client has an earlier conviction. Our firm has a deep understanding of the laws as they apply to DWI in New York State, and we can build a case with a focus on avoiding conviction with details and the aggressive pursuit of all possible evidence. We believe in your right to a fair trial, and we will fight to see that you receive the type of quality legal defense that you deserve.

Contact a Long Island DWI lawyer if you have a prior DWI conviction on record and want an opportunity to aggressively defend against a new charge.