Probable cause vs. reasonable suspicion for DWI stops

Police officers in New York cannot just pull people over because they feel like it. Before a legal traffic stop can take place, an officer must reasonably suspect that the driver has committed a crime. Likewise, police cannot just arrest a person at a traffic stop unless they have probable cause to do so. Reasonable …

An overview of the New York Impaired Driver Program

New York’s Impaired Driver Program, which was once called the Drinking Driver Program, gives individuals who have been convicted of driving while intoxicated to regain their driver’s licenses or reduce the amount of time that their driving privileges are suspended. Most participants choose to enter the program voluntarily, but some offenders are ordered to participate …

Why consider a drunk driving plea deal?

A DUI conviction in New York state may come with harsh penalties. Someone facing a near-certain conviction might consider a plea deal. Every driver’s case has unique aspects, and defendants will discuss the particulars of their situation with an attorney. For some, the positives associated with a plea deal may outweigh the negatives of taking …

What factors increase the severity of DUI charges?

Drivers who take to the roads in New York while intoxicated may find themselves facing criminal charges. The Empire State’s laws against drunk driving are tough, and the sentencing may become even harsher depending on specific factors. Several items could contribute to a driver facing enhanced DUI charges. When the charges become worse, expect possible …