New York DUI Consequences
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New York has some of the toughest laws in the United States—especially when it comes to driving under the influence (DUI). From fines of $500 or more to a mandatory license suspension and even time behind bars, the penalties for drunk driving can be quite severe. What’s more, as a serious criminal offense, a DUI conviction can affect far more than you may realize. If you were recently arrested for driving under the influence, here’s what you need to know about New York DUI consequences.
Although a first DUI conviction is considered a misdemeanor offense under New York law, it carries several hefty penalties nonetheless. In addition to paying up to $1,000 in fines, your driver’s license may be revoked for six months or more and you could spend as much as a year behind bars.
You’ll face even harsher punishment if you are charged with “Aggravated DUI” for driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.18% or higher—including a minimum $1,000 fine, one-year license suspension, and a one-year jail sentence. In some cases, the judge may also require you to have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle (a mechanism that prevents you from operating your vehicle without first performing a breathalyzer).
On the other hand, if you are convicted of a second DUI within a ten-year period, your offense will be classified as a felony. As a more severe charge, a felony DUI charge carries a $1,000 to $5,000 fine, one-year license suspension, and up to a four-year jail sentence. For a third conviction, the penalties get even tougher—including a $2,000 to $10,000 fine, 18-month license suspension, and a maximum seven-year jail sentence. It is also important to remember that, as a convicted felon, you may lose a number of personal freedoms, such as your right to vote, purchase firearms, and obtain a passport.
Despite the state’s stringent sentencing guidelines, the court-imposed penalties are nothing compared to the long-term consequences you will face if you are convicted of driving under the influence. Whether your offense is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony, a DUI conviction will remain on your criminal record permanently—which means anyone who checks your background will see that you were found guilty of drunk driving. As you can probably guess, this can jeopardize many opportunities in the future and disqualify you from countless employment, housing, and/or educational programs.
It is also important to understand how a DUI conviction can impact you financially. Along with the fines you incur, you may face additional costs—such as license reinstatement fees and installation, monitoring, and service fees for the ignition interlock device, for example. Your auto insurance rates will also substantially increase once your provider learns of your conviction.
As you can see, the consequences of a New York DUI conviction can alter your life forever—and the only way to avoid them is to get your charges reduced or dismissed in criminal court. To discuss the ideal defense strategy for your case, submit your information online today to receive a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced DUI defense attorney in your area.
