i recently got a dwi in new york state on nov 1. it’s my first offense, and i have no prior tickets or anything like that. i’m wondering if there’s any way to reduce the penalties, especially if i sign up for a drinking and driving course before the court date. anyone else been through this? looking for advice!
i think taking a course beforehand is a smart move. judges usually appreciate when you show effort to fix the issue. you should also get a good lawyer—they’ll know how to negotiate for reduced penalties.
@Ziv
yeah, i was looking into the impaired driver program (idp). is that the kind of course you mean?
Blaze said:
@Ziv
yeah, i was looking into the impaired driver program (idp). is that the kind of course you mean?
yep, that’s the one! it’s meant to educate drivers on the risks of impaired driving. enrolling early might help your case.
Blaze said:
@Ziv
yeah, i was looking into the impaired driver program (idp). is that the kind of course you mean?
just fyi, the idp might also include recommendations for further treatment if they think it’s needed. still worth it though!
a clean driving record definitely helps. when i had a similar issue, the prosecutor reduced my charge to a dwai instead of a dwi. penalties were way lighter.
Reagan said:
a clean driving record definitely helps. when i had a similar issue, the prosecutor reduced my charge to a dwai instead of a dwi. penalties were way lighter.
that’s good to hear. do you know what penalties come with a dwai?
@Blaze
for a first-time dwai, you’re looking at a fine between $300–$500, up to 15 days in jail (but usually just a fine), and a 90-day license suspension.
@Blaze
don’t forget the driver responsibility assessment fee and possibly an ignition interlock device. depends on the case though.
just curious—what’s the difference between a dwi and a dwai?
Emerson said:
just curious—what’s the difference between a dwi and a dwai?
from what i’ve read, dwi is for a bac of 0.08% or higher, and dwai is for 0.05–0.07%. dwi penalties are harsher too.
@Blaze
oh got it, thanks! does it matter if drugs are involved instead of alcohol?
Emerson said:
@Blaze
oh got it, thanks! does it matter if drugs are involved instead of alcohol?
yeah, there’s a separate dwai/drugs charge for that. penalties are similar but can vary based on the substance.
if you haven’t already, call a lawyer asap. they can help argue your clean record and any proactive steps you take. don’t wait till the last minute!
Teal said:
if you haven’t already, call a lawyer asap. they can help argue your clean record and any proactive steps you take. don’t wait till the last minute!
for sure. any recommendations on how to find a good one?
@Blaze
check reviews online or ask for referrals. local dwi lawyers will know how the courts work in your area.
@Blaze
make sure they specialize in traffic law or criminal law. it makes a big difference!