Syracuse DWI Attorney
If you have been arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Syracuse, NY, you need an experienced Syracuse DWI attorney to protect you. Facing drunk-driving charges may be one of the most frightening situations you have ever had to deal with. Possible consequences for a DWI conviction may include the loss of driving privileges, increased insurance costs, court costs, fines, and even jail time.
Two types of tests may be used by Syracuse police officers to determine if you are over the legal limit: field sobriety tests and chemical tests. If you were charged with DWI after failing either or both types of tests, you need a Syracuse DWI attorney to help you argue the results of the test.
A field sobriety test is a physical and cognitive test that an officer may use to determine if an arrest can be made. These tests may involve standing on one leg or walking heel-to-toe in a straight line. The problem with these tests is that they are subjective and may be open to interpretation.
A chemical test is a breath, blood, or urine test that is used to measure your blood alcohol content (BAC). If your BAC is .08% or more, you may be charged with DWI. These tests are not always accurate, and may be affected my medical conditions, dental work, or even gum or mints. Your Syracuse DWI attorney may request the logbooks to investigate whether the machine was maintained or calibrated properly. If it wasn’t, your test results might be thrown out.
You should know that if you fail a breath test or refuse to take one, your license may be automatically suspended or revoked by the Department of Motor Vehicles. This suspension is different from the suspension you may receive if convicted in criminal court. Because you have a limited time to request a hearing in order to keep your driving privileges, you should contact a Syracuse DWI lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that you meet your deadline.
Don’t let a DWI conviction affect the rest of your life. You should speak with a Syracuse DWI lawyer to learn more about how you can fight your drunk-driving charges and retain your driver’s license.
