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DWI Drugs Charges in New York: What You Need to Know
Facing DWI Drugs charges in New York City can be overwhelming. Whether the alleged impairment involves illegal substances, prescription medications, or even legal recreational marijuana, a DWI Drugs conviction can result in steep fines, loss of driving privileges, and even jail time. If you’ve been charged with DWI , consulting with an experienced DWI lawyer and criminal defense attorney in New York City is one of the most important steps you can take.
What Constitutes a DWI Drugs Offense?
Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192(4), it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs. Unlike alcohol-related DWIs that rely on a clear blood alcohol content (BAC) threshold, DWI Drugs cases are more complex. They often involve roadside sobriety tests, blood or urine samples, and evaluations from specially trained Drug Recognition Experts (DREs). These subjective forms of evidence make it essential to have a skilled attorney who understands how to challenge them effectively.
Drugs that commonly lead to DWI Drugs charges include:
- Marijuana (even though it is legal in NY for adults)
- Cocaine, heroin, and other narcotics
- Prescription drugs such as Xanax, Vicodin, Oxycodone, Ambien, and Adderall
- Over-the-counter medications that may cause drowsiness or impair reaction time
Even legally prescribed medications can result in a DWI Drugs charge if law enforcement believes they impaired your driving.
Penalties for a DWI Drugs Conviction in NYC
A conviction for DWI Drugs carries serious consequences, even for first-time offenders. Penalties include:
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Up to one year in jail (for a misdemeanor offense)
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Fines ranging from $500 to $1,000
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Driver’s license suspension for at least 6 months
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Mandatory participation in a drug treatment or education program
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A permanent criminal record
Repeat offenses or situations that involve injury, minors in the vehicle, or refusal to submit to chemical testing can escalate the charge to a felony. A criminal defense lawyer with experience in DWI Drugs law can help you navigate the complex legal consequences and help you fight for the best possible outcome.
Legal Defenses: How a DWI Drugs Attorney’s Expertise Helps Your Case
Every DWI Drugs case is different, and our attorney will review the facts unique to your case to build a strong defense. Possible legal strategies include:
- Challenging the legality of the traffic stop
- Questioning the accuracy and handling of chemical tests
- Disputing the officer’s qualifications or observations
- Arguing that the presence of a drug in your system did not impair your ability to drive
Because DWI Drugs charges often hinge on interpretation, hiring a skilled DWI Drugs lawyer can make a significant difference in your case. We can negotiate with prosecutors, advocate for treatment alternatives instead of jail, and seek to have your charges dismissed.
Consult With a DWI Drugs Lawyer in NYC Today
Being charged with DWI Drugs in New York City is serious — but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our lawyers will help you understand your rights, protect your license, and defend your freedom. Whether this is your first charge or you’ve faced similar accusations before, early intervention by an experienced DWI attorney is critical.
We Are Your Key To Fighting DWI Drugs Charges
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced New York City DWI Attorneys. Let us fight for you and help you get the second chance you deserve. Your future is too important to leave to chance — trust us to be by your side every step of the way. Call 917-519-8417 to consult with an experienced NYC DWI Attorney.
Read Our Clients’ Testimonials
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Martin B.
Excellent Attorney
Michael is an excellent Attorney. He was able to get my case dismissed. He listened to what I had for say and applied it to my defense.Read more -
Robert Z.
Absolute Top-Notch Criminal Defense Lawyer
This review comes from someone with a law degree from NYC. I landed on Michael after a thorough review online of his background and DWI experience. It's hard to think where my life and career would be right now if I entrusted my case (which involved an aggressive NYPD traffic stop leading to a DWI charge) to any other lawyer I considered. Michael displayed the perfect combination of factors: he aggressively defended me, respectfully contested any and all prosecutorial overstepping, understood exactly how/where their case was weak, and all the while kept me at ease in an otherwise stressful situation. And that was no easy task - my case kept getting adjourned because the prosecution was never ready. And while I wasn't thrilled that the court kept making me appear (over a year and half - one of the longest cases on the docket), Michael was there for me every step of the way. What did all that amount to? A DWI charge reduced to community service - no probation, no suspension, no major disruption to my life. While you must keep in mind that every case is different, one sure guarantee is that if Michael takes your case, he WILL defend you to the fullest. By the end, I considered Michael a friend as much as a lawyer.
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Maggie C.
“I chose to go to law school because I thought that someday, somehow I’d make a difference”, a quote by Christopher Darden
When I read this I immediately thought of Michael and my experience with him. I didn’t know Michael prior to needing legal advice and representation. I did exactly what you are doing now, reading the reviews attorneys received from their client in determining if this was the right choice for my situation. Once meeting and consulting with Michael about my legal situation, (potential DWI) I knew he was the right lawyer to represent me. At the end of 10 months of going through the process of court dates and hearing, he came through, even when I started to think the outcome would not result in my favor. Before trail he met with the DA, and did make a BIG difference, reducing a potential DWI misdemeanor conviction to a traffic violation. My advice to you, choose Michael, listen to his counsel, go through the process and don’t lose faith because his goal is to “make a difference” on your behalf. Thanks again Michael!
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Noel R.
Michael was always honest which is key, professional and most importantly he got the job done. My case was won and I couldn't be happier. I would definitely suggest him.
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Anonymous
Great Lawyer
Mike helped me out with a DUI case i was involved with. He was informative and extremely good his job. Facing some serious charges he was able to help me with being charged for an infraction. The fine was reduced and i will have to take a class. Unfortunately, my license will be suspended but he was able to get a stay for 20 days so i can work and figure out what i will have to do for the future running my business. I highly recommend Mr. Discioarro.
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Richard H.
Excellent Lawyer | DWI Case
Michael is truly the best at what he does. Great guy, very down to earth, straight forward and upfront. He makes the most stressful situations feel very light. After some research online, i found him and read some reviews that prompted me to set up a meeting resulting in me hiring him. After my dwi, my car was impounded. He helped me get it back very quickly and was in contact with me every step of the way. He reponded to any questions, messages, or phone calls in a timely fashion. After many court dates, my case eventually got dismissed thanks his dedication and hard work. I would highly recommend him.
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Jerry C.
Great Guy, Greater Lawyer
Michael is a great man and more specifically a great lawyer, after being arrested for a DWI in New York, I thought I was done for and I would have to spend time in jail. Michael helped me through the entire process, showing me what I needed to do to beat the case as best as possible. He was upfront and honest with me and told me what will happen and how things were to turn out. I did what I had to do, going through an alcohol program, fixing my driver's license and showing up for ever court appearance. After numerous court appearances, the case was dropped down to a traffic infraction. I felt relieved and happy to know that I only had to pay a $300 fine. I've kept in contact with Mike ever since and even referring him to others that got caught up one night. Thanks again Michael
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