Fight Criminal Charges With A New Paltz DWI Defense Attorney
I am criminal defense attorney Larry Trank. From my law office, Lawrence R. Trank, PLLC, in New Paltz, I offer zealous criminal defense to individuals throughout Ulster County, Dutchess County and the Hudson Valley. I can represent you if you are charged with drunk driving, felony DWI, or other alcohol or drug-related offenses.
Request a completely free consultation: call 877-224-1132 or contact me online today.
What Are The Sentences For A DWI In New York?
A conviction for DWI has serious consequences. These include:
- First DWI conviction: A misdemeanor that will result in a life-long criminal record. Your driver’s license will be suspended. You must pay a fine up to $1,000 (or up to $2,500 for an aggravated DWI), a DMV assessment of $750 and higher insurance rates. You face the installation of an ignition interlock device. You may lose your job, be placed on probation or face jail time.
- Second or subsequent DWI conviction: The consequences can be far more severe. A second DWI conviction within ten years is a Class E Felony. It can result in a fine of up to $5,000 and a sentence of up to four years in jail. A third DWI conviction is a Class D Felony that can result in a fine of up to $10,000 and a sentence of up to seven years in jail.
If you have been arrested and charged with DWI, the judge may suspend your driving privileges at your very first court appearance. Entering the courtroom without an experienced criminal defense lawyer is a decision that you cannot afford to make.
What You Should Know About DWAI
Driving while ability impaired (DWAI) is a type of drunk driving offense in New York. Unlike a DWI, which requires a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher, a DWAI means that your driving ability was impaired by alcohol or drugs to any extent at all.
For alcohol, a BAC between .05% and .07% typically prompts a DWAI charge. While less severe than a DWI, a DWAI is still a serious traffic infraction. It can result in heavy fines, a suspended license and even jail time.
How To Defend Against New York DWI Charges
Drunk driving charges (sometimes referred to as DWI, DUI or DWAI) can be defended. As a DWI defense attorney, I will begin your defense by investigating and analyzing a number of factors, including:
- Was there probable cause for the traffic stop that led to your arrest?
- Were the field sobriety tests properly administered?
- Was the breathalyzer machine used during your arrest properly calibrated?
- Did the officers who administered the breathalyzer test have the proper certification and training?
- If a blood or urine sample was obtained, was the testing performed properly and can a proper chain of custody be established?
I focus on getting drunk driving charges in Ulster County and other counties cleared or dropped. Often, I can negotiate plea bargains and get felony DWI charges reduced to misdemeanors. As a trial lawyer, I am prepared to defend you in court.
Free Consultation With An Ulster County Criminal Defense Lawyer
At my firm, I am ready to protect your driving privileges and your future. To schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case, call my office toll-free at 877-224-1132 or simply fill out the contact form on this website.

