In New York, a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charge can potentially be reduced to a lesser offense, such as a DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) or a traffic violation. Here are some of the possible outcomes of a DWI charge in New York:
- DWI reduced to DWAI: In some cases, a DWI charge may be reduced to a lesser charge of DWAI. DWAI is a traffic violation that carries lesser penalties than a DWI. However, even a DWAI conviction can result in fines, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs.
- DWI reduced to a traffic violation: In some cases, a DWI charge may be reduced to a traffic violation, such as reckless driving or improper operation of a vehicle. While these charges carry lesser penalties than a DWI, they can still result in fines and other consequences.
- Plea bargain to a lesser offense: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor, in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser offense, in exchange for a dismissal or reduction of the DWI charges.
It’s important to note that the specific outcomes of a DWI case depend on the facts of the case, the offender’s criminal history, and other factors.
The best charge most people can hope to get a DWI reduced to is Driving While Ability Impaired, VTL § 1192.1. This is the goal for most cases as this is only a violation-level offense, as opposed to a misdemeanor or even a felony.
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