Aggravated DWI Defense Attorney in Manhattan

New York City Lawyer for Elevated DWI Charges

A charge of driving while intoxicated (DWI) in New York State is always serious, and the penalties associated with a conviction can be severe, even for a first offense. DWI is generally prosecuted as a misdemeanor offense, but there are situations in which the charges can be elevated—sometimes to the level of a felony. This elevated charge is known as aggravated DWI, and if you are facing such a charge, you need an attorney who is skilled, experienced, and willing to fight to protect your rights.

At The Law Firm of Gregory J. Watford, Esq., PLLC, we know that the New York criminal court system can be confusing and overwhelming. We also know that those who do not have proper representation often do not get the justice they deserve. Our team understands what it is at stake when you have been charged with aggravated DWI, and we are equipped to go to work on your behalf.

Brooklyn Defense Counsel for Aggravated DWI Cases

There are two scenarios defined in New York law that could lead to charges of aggravated driving under the influence:

• Operating any type of motor vehicle on a public road or highway with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.18 or higher; or
• Driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence of drugs (DWAI/Drugs) or a combination of drugs and alcohol (DWAI/Combination) with a passenger under the age of 16 in the vehicle.

Aggravated DWI based on your BAC is a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense. You could face penalties that include up one (1) year in jail, up to three (3) years of probation, fines of up $2,500, and a one (1) year revocation of your driver's license. You could also be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle and attend a Victim Impact Panel.

If your aggravated DWI is based on having a passenger under the age of 16, the charge is likely to be a Class E felony due to the Child Passenger Protection Act, commonly known as Leandra's Law. If you are convicted, you could face up to four (4) years in prison and fines of up to $5,000, in addition to other consequences. The charges and penalties could be increased even further if a child is injured or killed as a result of your driving while intoxicated.

Put Experience on Your Side

Gregory J. Watford, Esq. is an accomplished criminal defense attorney with over 25 years of experience as a negotiator and litigator. In addition, he spent more than ten years working in various law enforcement capacities. As a former prosecutor and criminal investigator, Mr. Watford has accumulated a vast working knowledge of the New York justice system from the crime scene to the courtroom. With his background and experience, he knows how to get results, and he is prepared to help you build a defense against aggravated DWI charges in New York City.

At our firm, we begin every case with a thorough investigation of the circumstances. We will sit down with you to discuss what happened, the options you may have, and the best way to move forward. If appropriate, we will challenge the results of BAC testing, the behavior of the arresting officer, and any other questionable evidence presented by the state. Depending on the situation, however, it may be in your best interest to negotiate with prosecutors to limit the damage to your future. We pledge to remain at your side every step of the way, no matter how challenging your circumstances may be.

Get the Help You Need

If you or a loved one has been charged with aggravated DWI in the greater NYC area, contact our office for guidance today. Call 646-580-6675 for a confidential consultation at The Law Firm of Gregory J. Watford, Esq., PLLC before you make any decisions about your case. Our firm serves clients in Manhattan, Queens, The Bronx, Brooklyn, Mineola, White Plains, New City, Mt. Vernon, and the surrounding areas.