Long Island is the most heavily populated island in the entire country. With a population of more than 7.5 million, it’s a simple fact that a portion of the residents here could find themselves facing various charges. One of the most common is certainly that of drunk driving, and while it is very common, it’s also incredibly serious. If you’ve recently found yourself facing a drunk driving charge – also known as a DWI, or Driving While Intoxicated – you’ll likely have some concerns and questions.
There are several things to keep in mind concerning drunk driving charges. These include:
- The most common outcome for a DWI charge is a guilty plea. Often, the evidence is simply too overwhelming for suspects to avoid being found guilty, and entering a plea usually leads to a lesser sentence. However, while guilty pleas are incredibly common for DWI charges, there are some occasions when a not guilty plea may be a better call. It’s difficult to know when this is or to prove that you’re innocent, but there could be options out there.
- DWI charges can lead to serious penalties. The punishments in Long Island for this crime include things like jail sentences of as much as 7 years in jail, fines of thousands of dollars, and a loss of your driving privileges. It will also remain on your criminal record for years and could have a direct impact on a wide range of other aspects of your life.
- A good DWI attorney is your best friend. There’s not much chance that you understand the complexities of the legal system or of the various penalties and procedures involved in a drunk driving charge. Finding a lawyer is the best option for you and your future. They can help you determine whether or not to plead guilty, negotiate lighter sentences for you, and more. Plus, they’ll take away a tremendous amount of the stress involved in facing a DWI.
- Don’t talk to the police or to insurance companies until you’ve contacted an attorney. Just as the Miranda warnings say – your statements can be used against you in court. Wait until you find legal representation.
A DWI could have a huge impact on your life for years to come. While never driving while intoxicated is the key to avoiding the issue entirely, if you’ve made a mistake and are now facing these charges, contacting a professional could help.