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New York DUI / DWI Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: I was charged with DWI in New york but i already have a DWI conviction in New Jersey. Does this mean it's a felony?

IN NJ DWI is considered a traffic violation and i'm worried this NY incident will be trumped up to a felony if they count NJ as misdemeanor instead of a violation.

Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
answered on Feb 4, 2017

See: https://dmv.ny.gov/tickets/penalties-alcohol-or-drug-related-violations

The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website. I practice...
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1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: i was found guilty of DWI in a district court. i appealed to superior court. What do i do now?

i sent two notice to the prosecutor trying to handle this on a private level; no response. in court the prosecutor waved my notice to the judge like it held no merit; i had no understanding of what was going on in that court; the judge entered a not guilty plea on my behalf and proceeded with... View More

Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
answered on Feb 3, 2017

It sounds like you're lost. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of... View More

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: I HAVE A DUI FROM 2006 NASSAU COUNTY NY NOT REALIZING WHAT I PLED TO PASSED SOBRIETY TEST NO BREATHALYZER GIVEN WOULD

HAVE PASSED FOUND PIECE OF CRACK WRAPPED IN TISSUE IN CUP HOLDER WAS NOT MY CAR CHARGED WITH DUI AFFECTING MY RELICENSING WITH NEW LAWS CAN THIS BE REVISITED AND REDUCED

Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
answered on Feb 3, 2017

The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: DUI 16 years ago

I was pulled over for a DUI in early 2000 In Concord, NC. After blowing only .06 at the station. Even after blowing only .06 at the station. I never finished the court process. I was doing time in Virginia for another DUI. I have been very active in recovery since. Who do I call and what... View More

Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
answered on Feb 1, 2017

Contact a NC lawyer. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: I've gotten 3 dwi's in a 12 year period. I've lost my license for 6 years. I completed probation over 2 years ago.

When can I get my license back? I live in upstate New York. I satisfactorily completed probation and head and ignition interlock on my car for 1 1/2 years. Just isn't my probation was ending my probation officer said that a new law just started saying that you will lose your license. When... View More

Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
answered on Jan 30, 2017

Read the most recent related court order. It should answer your questions. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website. I practice law in CA,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI and Juvenile Law for New York on
Q: What's the charges for underage drinking and driving?
Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
answered on Jan 27, 2017

You mean the punishment? It's a misdemeanor, and you can have your license suspended, be forced to pay a fine, and might even face jail time (especially if it's a 2nd offence). The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: I owe restitution payments on a dwi - it’s about a grand. I don’t have that kind of money — what do I do?
Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
answered on Jan 25, 2017

You may petition the court to permit a payment plan; or you might consider borrowing the money. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI and Insurance Defense for New York on
Q: If a Veteran is convicted of DWI & his insurance company comes after him for reimbursement, can they seize assets

He was told by the INSURANCE Company's attorney that he can refuse to pay. My concern is...if he does that, can the insurance company seize assets, i.e. motorcycles, cars, put a lein against a home his name is on?

Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
answered on Jan 23, 2017

It depends on the facts. Have a lawyer review your case and your insurance agreement. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website. I practice... View More

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: If my DWI charge becomes a violation instead of conviction does it show up on my license. Btw court doesn't have my BAC

I was arrested in may for a DWI. I know what my BAC was bc I think I was told by the cop. This is my fourt court appearance and the DA still doesn't have my BAC results. They weren't submitted or they are having a hard time locating them. What might end up happening is I'll get a... View More

Andrew M. Stengel
Andrew M. Stengel
answered on Jan 21, 2017

Unless blood was taken, the prosecution should know your BAC by now. If you submitted to a breathalyzer it would have known immediately. Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) is a traffic infraction, and although it is not considered a criminal conviction it is a not a violation. The DWAI is... View More

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: How long does a DUI case take?
Andrew M. Stengel
Andrew M. Stengel
answered on Jan 12, 2017

There is no set time limit. Every case is different. It takes about three months for a case to reach a trial posture. Once a case is on for hearing and/or trial, it could take a year or longer for a trial to commence.

2 Answers | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: I got a DWI over the holidays. Will I be able to drive to and from work? I am worried about my job.
Stephen Bilkis
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answered on Jan 9, 2017

New York does allow for a restricted license status after being convicted. It will allow you to drive to and from work or to school. It is very limited and you are only eligible for this once. I recommend you speak with a lawyer to learn more.

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1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, DUI / DWI, Traffic Tickets and Gov & Administrative Law for New York on
Q: How did a 2002 DWI conviction drop off my NYS DMV Abstract after 10 years & now reappear on my latest abstract 1wk ago?

Since I posted, I received a call back from the records department at DMV who informed me that Governor Cuomo had put into law that all DWI information originally slated to fall off your abstract after 10 years has now been changed to 15 years. She told me that the computer actually went back in... View More

Aubrey Claudius Galloway
Aubrey Claudius Galloway pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jan 2, 2017

This was most likely an oversight as it should be on permanently. THAT SAID, after 10 years, you may petition a Court of competent jurisdiction to expunge and seal the conviction. This is often difficult, but considering it was (hopefully) a non-violent crime, certainly doable.

A few...
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1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: I recently discovered that my NYS DMV abstract reveals a dwi from 2002.

I recently discovered that my NYS DMV abstract reveals a dwi from 2002. That might explain why I have received "thanks but no thanks" from so many job applications over the past few years. I spoke with dmv today after printing my abstract and was told that they didn't know why it... View More

Andrew M. Stengel
Andrew M. Stengel
answered on Dec 24, 2016

Were you convicted of DWI in New York? If so, you have a permanent criminal record.

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: I was pulled over for a dwi in NY -- I have a prior from New Jersey from three years ago

- does this make the current one a felony?

Andrew M. Stengel
Andrew M. Stengel
answered on Dec 20, 2016

Yes, it sounds like the DWI in New Jersey will be the basis for a felony DWI in New York. Speak to an experienced and agrrresive DWI attorney.

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: Can I beat a dwi in nys if there is no refusal letter and no video?

I was driving home I believe I passed out and veered into a parked car. I was taken to the hospital because I had a head trauma which I received 5 staples. I refused all test which truthfully I don't remember due to the head trauma . At arraignment the DA had no refusal letter or video of the... View More

Andrew M. Stengel
Andrew M. Stengel
answered on Dec 10, 2016

Far more facts are needed to answer your question. While it's unlikely that the failure to do the refusal paperwork alone will win the case it is definitely something that works in your favor.

2 Answers | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: I have been charged with a DWI. I am beyond upset and cannot afford a lawyer. Can I represent myself?
Stephen Bilkis
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answered on Dec 1, 2016

You can represent yourself but I would advise against it. DWI's deal with a complex area of law and serious penalties. An experienced lawyer can find any defects in your case and contest the evidence submitted against you. I would recommend speaking to a lawyer before you decide. Many offer... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: I was recently convicted of a DWI. How long will it be on my record?
Stephen Bilkis
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answered on Nov 27, 2016

In New York, a criminal conviction will stay on your record permanently. There is no legal way to expunge (remove) this from your record. As time passes however, it will be easier to explain to future employers as a mistake from long ago.

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1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: Can you be on an extended Leave of Absence from your job to qualify for a Legal Aid Lawyer? It would involve a DWI

If the person is now in a rehab facility for approx 3 months and a court date is set during that time and

the person cannot afford a lawyer would he still be eligible for a legal aid lawyer. He is presently not collecting

any salary at all.

Andrew M. Stengel
Andrew M. Stengel
answered on Nov 9, 2016

You may or may not be eligible for a public defender. Any assets that you own could be considered. See this document: https://www.ils.ny.gov/files/Hurrell-Harring/Eligibility/Final%20Eligibility%20Standards/Eligibility%20Criteria%20and%20Procedures%20FINAL%20FULL%20April%204%202016.pdf.

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: Are the penalties less for a snowmobiling DWI than one you get while driving a car?
Andrew M. Stengel
Andrew M. Stengel
answered on Nov 2, 2016

The penalties are a little less harsh for snowmobiles than cars, but they are still crimes. For example, a first DWI offense is a misdemeanor punished by up to one year in jail and a second within ten years is a felony. A first offense SWI is also a misdemeanor punished up to 90 days in jail and a... View More

1 Answer | Asked in DUI / DWI for New York on
Q: Can u be arrested for dui or dwi while sitting in a parked car with no keys and motor not running.
Paul Stanko
Paul Stanko
answered on Oct 20, 2016

You can be arrested for anything. The question is whether the arrest is proper. It must be based upon probable cause or a valid warrant.

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