Getting charged with a DWI in New York is a big deal. Even if it’s your first time, the impact can be lasting. Beyond the fines and court costs, a conviction can affect your job, your reputation, and your future. If you’re facing DWI charges on Long Island, you don’t have to go through it alone. You deserve clear, honest guidance from someone who knows how these cases work and how they play out in real life.
Long Island DWI lawyer Jason Bassett has helped many people in your situation figure out what to do next. He can take the time to talk with you, go over your options, and give you a realistic idea of what can be done. This can include trying to get the DWI charges reduced, fighting for a dismissal, or working out a fair deal.
Call the Law Offices of Jason Bassett at (631) 259-6060 to set up a consultation. Let’s talk about where things stand and what steps you can take now to move forward.
Initial New York DWI Costs, Fines, and Fees
In New York, alcohol-impaired driving typically falls into two main categories. These are
- DWAI, or Driving While Ability Impaired, or
- DWI, or Driving While Intoxicated
Both of these carry their own consequences and fines. For first-time offenders, a DWAI can carry fines between $300 and $500. For a DWI, you may be facing fines between $500 and $1,000 for a first offense.
You can add to that the costs of posting bail, court costs, paying any towing charges you may have incurred, and an impound fee. Depending on your particular situation, this can run into the hundreds or even thousands of dollars in financial costs.
How Much Is A DWI Fine?
Driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol constitutes a significant offense in New York. Facing a DWI (driving while intoxicated) charge carries substantial consequences, including imprisonment and significant fines. It is crucial to understand the potential implications you may encounter during this time.
- Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated (AGG DWI): Individuals charged with AGG DWI may face a fine ranging from $1,000 to $2,500.
- Second AGG DWI in 10 years (E felony): In the case of a second AGG DWI offense within a 10-year period, the penalties escalate to an E felony, with a fine imposed between $1,000 and $5,000.
- Third AGG DWI in 10 years (D felony): A third AGG DWI within a 10-year timeframe is considered a D felony, attracting a more substantial fine of $2,000 to $10,000.
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving While Impaired by a Drug (DWAI-Drug): For DWI or DWAI-Drug offenses, the stipulated fine falls within the range of $500 to $1,000.
- Second DWI or DWAI-Drug violation in 10 years (E felony): If an individual commits a second DWI or DWAI-Drug violation within a 10-year period, the offense is elevated to an E felony, with a fine set between $1,000 and $5,000.
- Third DWI or DWAI-Drug violation in 10 years (D felony): A third DWI or DWAI-Drug violation within a 10-year span is classified as a D felony, carrying a more substantial fine ranging from $2,000 to $10,000.
| Offense Type | Charge Level | Fine Range |
|---|---|---|
| Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated (AGG DWI) | Misdemeanor | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Second AGG DWI in 10 years | E Felony | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Third AGG DWI in 10 years | D Felony | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving While Impaired by a Drug (DWAI-Drug) | Misdemeanor | $500 – $1,000 |
| Second DWI or DWAI-Drug violation in 10 years | E Felony | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Third DWI or DWAI-Drug violation in 10 years | D Felony | $2,000 – $10,000 |
Additionally, a mandatory surcharge, crime victim assistance fee, additional surcharge, and an alcohol fee of $395 are applied to alcohol-related misdemeanors, while felonies typically incur charges averaging around $520. If the conviction occurs in a town or village justice court, an additional $5 is added. It is crucial to secure reliable legal representation to address these legal issues effectively.
Handling the challenges of DWI charges can be a daunting task, but a skilled lawyer can guide you through the process. Long Island DWI lawyer Jason Bassett can meticulously examine the details of your case, craft a strategic defense, and advocate on your behalf to potentially reduce fines and penalties. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Long Island DWI Lawyer – Jason Bassett, Esq.
Jason Bassett, Esq.
Jason Bassett is a Long Island-based DWI lawyer who brings over two decades of criminal defense experience to every case. Known for taking on tough cases and delivering aggressive legal strategies, Mr. Bassett defends individuals against DUI charges with a dedicated focus on protecting constitutional rights and minimizing long-term consequences.
- Former Assistant District Attorney and Special Assistant Attorney General
- Juris Doctor from Boston College Law School (1999)
- Admitted to practice in NY State and federal courts (EDNY, SDNY, Second Circuit)
- Member: National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and National College for DUI Defense
- Known for aggressive representation and strategic negotiation
What Are the Mandatory DMV Fees After a NY DWI?
If you’re convicted of a DWI in New York, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) imposes several mandatory fees and penalties. These costs are separate from any fines or penalties issued by the criminal court and must be paid to maintain or regain your driving privileges.
One of the significant fees is the Driver Responsibility Assessment. This is a payment required by the DMV to maintain your driving privileges. For a DWI conviction, the assessment costs $250 per year for three years, totaling $750. Failure to pay this fee will result in the suspension of your license.
A DWI conviction also leads to a license revocation. Once your revocation period ends, you will need to apply for a new license. This process includes a $100 non-refundable reapplication fee paid to the DMV.
Additionally, most DWI convictions require participation in the New York Drinking Driver Program (DDP). This program comes with a $75 enrollment fee to the DMV and a separate program fee of up to $225, paid directly to the class provider. If further treatment is recommended after the DDP evaluation, additional costs can range from $50 to $150 per session.
Under Leandra’s Law, anyone convicted of a DWI must install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in any vehicle they operate for at least 12 months. The IID costs include an installation fee of approximately $250 and monthly monitoring fees of $75 to $100, adding up to over $1,000 for the year.
These DMV-related costs add up quickly, making it essential to understand your financial obligations after a DWI conviction in New York. An experienced Long Island DWI lawyer from the Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C. can help you review your case, challenge potential errors, and pursue options that may reduce fines, fees, or license-related penalties.
The Cost of DWI Classes in New York
If you are convicted of a DWI in New York, you will probably be ordered to attend substance abuse classes. These legally required classes do not come without their own financial implications. A substance abuse class in New York can start at $50 per class, with additional fees for substance abuse counseling at around $200. In addition to these, you can end up paying the cost of an alcohol abuse screening, which may also be required.
The Cost to Your Insurance Premiums After a DWI in New York
After you are convicted of a DWI in New York, your insurance company will see you as a high risk. How big an effect it will have on your individual coverage and premiums will vary depending on who your insurer is and where you live. In most cases, at the very least, there will be a substantial increase in the price of your premiums – on average about $1,500 annually. Your premiums will be impacted by your DWI for about 3 years.
How Much Does a DUI Cost Over Ten Years?
Incurring a DUI can have a substantial financial impact far beyond the initial fines and legal fees. One of the most significant long-term costs associated with a DUI conviction comes from increased car insurance premiums. Particularly in states like New York, where DUIs, or DWIs as they are also known, can remain on a driver’s record for up to 15 years, the financial repercussions are considerable.
Drivers who have been convicted of a DWI are often categorized as high-risk by insurance companies. This classification leads to significantly higher insurance rates. In New York, for instance, the average increase in car insurance premiums post-DWI is about 74 percent. With the already high base rates for insurance in New York, this hike can mean that the average annual cost for full coverage insurance post-DWI could be around $6,000, or approximately $500 per month.
Over a span of ten years, this increase translates to an additional expenditure of between $20,000 to $30,000 just for car insurance. When combined with the initial costs of the DUI, such as legal expenses, fines, and other related fees, the total cost over a decade can reach up to $40,000. This figure underscores the severe and lasting financial burden a DUI can impose on an individual.
It’s important to remember that these figures can vary based on individual circumstances and the specifics of the DUI case. However, the financial strain is undeniably significant, making it advisable to consult with a Long Island DWI lawyer to understand the potential consequences and acquire legal assistance.
Other Costs of a DWI in New York
Of course, these are only the financial costs of a DWI in New York. Many employers take a zero policy stance on those who are convicted of a DWI. Even for those whose employment is not directly impacted by a DWI conviction, you should consider the time spent away from work due to court appearances and substance abuse school, not to mention transportation costs if you have had your license suspended.
Because a DWI in New York remains permanently on your record, any future employer will see this when doing a background check.
Get the Help of a Suffolk County DWI Lawyer
Being convicted of a DWI in New York has many consequences, not the least of which are financial. If you can get charges dropped, reduced, or dismissed, it is worth your while in terms of your wallet and your future. If you have been charged with a DWI in New York, contact an experienced Long Island DWI lawyer for assistance. Contact the Law Offices of Jason Bassett, P.C. at (631) 259-6060 to schedule a free consultation and learn about your options.