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Experienced Manhattan DWI Lawyer
Thousands of misdemeanor and felony cases resolved with no criminal record for our clients.
Over a hundred years of legal experience.
In many cases, an individual who has been charged with a DWI has had no previous exposure to the criminal justice system. But alcohol-related offenses are taken very seriously in the state of New York and can result in a criminal record that can follow you for the rest of your life. Don’t face the system alone. Let us help.
At Lebedin Kofman LLP, experienced Manhattan DWI lawyer Russ Kofman and our team of Nassau County and Manhattan are dedicated to providing the highest quality of legal defense possible and to diligently fighting for the rights of our clients. From the moment you are charged with a DWI or other alcohol or drug-related offense, we are right there in your corner, helping protect your legal rights and ensure the best possible legal outcome for your case.
Call us today at (646) 663-4430 to schedule a free consultation with a skilled DWI lawyer.
New York State enforces strict blood alcohol content (BAC) limits for drivers. For most drivers, the legal BAC limit is 0.08%. However, for commercial drivers, the limit is set at 0.04%, and for drivers under the age of 21, any BAC higher than 0.02% can lead to a DWI charge due to the Zero Tolerance Law. These limits are consistent in New York including Manhattan and Nassau County, reflecting the state’s commitment to reducing impaired driving and enhancing road safety.
In New York, Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is defined as operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. More severe charges, such as Aggravated DWI, may apply if a driver’s BAC is 0.18% or above. A DWI Lawyer would emphasize that a DWI charge can result from impairment by alcohol or drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medications that affect one’s ability to drive.
There are distinct differences in our drunk driving charges, and they are dependent on specific factors surrounding the circumstances:
New York also has zero-tolerance laws for drivers under the age of 21. These laws make it unlawful for a young driver to drive with a blood alcohol concentration as low as 0.02%.
New York’s Implied Consent Law states that by driving on state roads, drivers have consented to chemical testing if they are arrested for a suspected DWI. This can include breath, blood, urine, or saliva testing. Refusal to submit to such tests in Manhattan or Nassau County will result in an immediate suspension of the driver’s license, and can lead to additional penalties beyond those associated with a DWI conviction. It is critical for drivers to be aware of these laws, as the implications of refusal can be as significant as the DWI charge itself.
When faced with a DWI charge in Manhattan, the expertise of a seasoned DWI lawyer is invaluable. The complexities of New York’s legal system demand a professional who not only understands the letter of the law but is also adept at navigating the local legal landscape. Hiring a lawyer with specific local experience can make a significant difference in the outcome of a DWI case.
A DWI lawyer practicing in New York brings a depth of knowledge about specific DWI laws that apply to the borough. This includes familiarity with the local courts, judges, and district attorneys, which can be leveraged to the client’s advantage. The lawyer’s understanding extends to the nuances of New York’s DWI laws, from the permissible evidence in DWI cases to sentencing guidelines and potential loopholes.
At Lebedin Kofman LLP, the importance of protecting the rights and interests of our clients cannot be overstated. We are committed to ensuring that clients are treated fairly throughout the legal process and that their rights are preserved. Our team works diligently to ensure that every avenue for defense is explored and that clients receive a robust representation. This commitment extends to investigating the legality of traffic stops, the accuracy of BAC testing procedures, and the overall integrity of the evidence presented against our clients.
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Under the stipulations of Leandra’s Law, or the Child Protection Act, stringent consequences are in place for individuals convicted of driving while impaired with a passenger under 16 years of age.
Leandra’s Law delineates that an individual accused of driving under the influence and consequently injuring a minor may face a Class C felony charge, carrying a potential sentence of up to 15 years’ incarceration. Should such an incident tragically result in the fatality of a child, the driver could be subject to a Class B felony charge, with penalties extending up to 25 years in prison.
At Lebedin Kofman LLP, we uphold the principle that robust legal representation is a fundamental right for all individuals. Our team, including New York DUI attorney Russ Kofman, brings empathy and unwavering commitment to the defense of those confronted with DWI or DUI allegations in New York.
We invite you to reach out to us at (646) 663-4430 or (516) 212-4209 for a consultation with an adept DWI attorney who can provide the guidance and advocacy necessary during such challenging times.
If a police officer has observed driving behavior that seems to indicate possible intoxication, such as speeding, swerving, running traffic lights, or otherwise driving erratically, the officer may pull the driver over to further observe the driver’s behavior or appearance. Based on this observation, the officer may test the physical coordination of the driver through a series of field sobriety tests. Failure to perform at a given level will be an indication of intoxication.
An officer may also ask the driver to take a roadside breathalyzer test. The results of this test will be used as probable cause for an arrest, and another test will be given to the driver at the police station.
Criminal defense lawyer Russ Kofman and our team of DWI attorneys at Lebedin Kofman LLP understand the complexities surrounding a DWI charge. We know that facing the legal justice system may be tough, so our lawyers work hard for every case they handle. If you or a loved one is accused of drunk driving, our attorneys at Lebedin Kofman LLP may be able to help.
Contact us today at (646) 663-4430 or (516) 212-4209 to schedule a consultation for free.
As members of the National College of DWI Defense, our attorneys can tirelessly fight for you in pursuit of the best results. We handle DWI/DUI cases from arraignment through trial, if necessary. We always work to accomplish the best results for our clients. These cases involve intricacies that require a special knowledge base, and that is exactly why we hone our DWI defense skills regularly. You can rely on our DWI attorneys in Manhattan and Nassau County to provide you with the effective and dedicated representation you deserve.
Contact Lebedin Kofman LLP today for your free consultation from a New York DWI defense attorney.
At Lebedin Kofman LLP, our Manhattan and Nassau County DWI attorneys can strongly represent your DUI/DWI case. Contact our firm today at (646) 663-4430 or (516) 212-4209 for a free initial consultation with our attorneys for your DWI case.
In New York, the act of obtaining a driver’s license carries with it an automatic agreement to submit to chemical testing, a provision known as “implied consent.” Should a driver choose to decline such testing, they face immediate suspension and potential revocation of their license. Additionally, the refusal to undergo a breathalyzer test may be introduced as evidence in a court of law.
Even without breathalyzer results, law enforcement officials can proceed with an arrest and the pursuit of charges based on alternative evidence of intoxication.
This evidence can include:
These elements collectively enable prosecutors to build a case for intoxication charges despite a driver’s refusal to submit to a breathalyzer test.
After a traffic stop, police officers in most states (including New York) administer field sobriety tests. Field sobriety tests aim to evaluate the balance and ability to focus of a person being suspected of drunk driving. The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration has approved three standardized field sobriety tests.
These tests include:
If you or a loved one is facing DWI charges, it is important to seek the help of an experienced lawyer right away. A skilled attorney may be able to help you create a solid defense for your DWI charge and help you preserve your freedom.
Contact Lebedin Kofman LLP at (646) 663-4430 or (516) 212-4209 today to speak with a top-rated NYC DWI lawyer.
In the context of a New York City DWI case, the burden is on the prosecution to establish certain key elements beyond a reasonable doubt for a conviction.
These are:
The definition of ‘operation’ under New York statutes extends beyond the actual motion of the vehicle. An individual is considered to be operating the vehicle if they are positioned behind the wheel with the intention to drive. This means a charge of DWI can be brought against an individual even if they are stationary. The prosecution’s task is to demonstrate the intent to operate, regardless of whether the vehicle’s engine was running.
Navigating these legal intricacies requires the expertise of a seasoned New York DWI attorney. Russ Kofman, alongside our proficient legal team, is well-versed in the complexities of DWI laws and is committed to advocating for the rights and freedoms of our clients. Confronting the legal system can be daunting, and securing experienced representation is a critical step for those charged with DWI offenses.
For a complimentary consultation, please contact us at (646) 663-4430 or (516) 212-4209. Our team is ready to provide the necessary legal support and guidance.
The next thing the prosecution must prove is the use of alcohol or drugs by the defendant. This proof will depend upon the charge. In the case of a per se DWI charge, the actual amount of alcohol or drugs in the defendant’s system must be proven, generally using chemical testing.
In a driving while intoxicated charge, the prosecution doesn’t need to prove the level of alcohol or drugs. It must merely be established that the individual was not capable of operating the vehicle safely. This can be done with a field sobriety test, the defendant’s behavior and speech at the time of a stop, the presence of alcohol in the vehicle, or even the odor of alcohol.
Facing a DWI charge in New York can lead to serious penalties and long-term consequences. Understanding the range of potential penalties is critical for those accused of DWI offenses in Manhattan and New York City. The implications of a conviction go beyond just legal sanctions; they can affect an individual’s personal and professional life for years to come.
In Manhattan and NYC, DWI convictions come with substantial fines that vary depending on the severity of the offense. For a first-time DWI offense, fines can range from $500 to $1,000, but these amounts can increase significantly with higher BAC levels or subsequent offenses. It is also important to note that convicted individuals often face additional financial burdens beyond the imposed fines, including increased insurance premiums, legal fees, and potential costs associated with mandated DWI education programs or treatment.
One of the most immediate concerns for those charged with a DWI in Manhattan or Nassau County is the potential loss of driving privileges. New York law mandates license suspension for drivers convicted of DWI, with the period of suspension varying based on factors such as prior offenses and the specific details of the current charge. A first-time DWI typically results in a minimum six-month license suspension, while repeat offenders or those with higher BAC levels may face longer suspensions or even permanent revocation of their driver’s license. The impact of such penalties is profound, affecting an individual’s ability to commute to work, fulfill family obligations, and maintain independence.
For those convicted of DWI, the court may require the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on any vehicle the offender operates. This device prevents the vehicle from starting if it detects alcohol on the driver’s breath. The requirement for an IID is often mandated for a period determined by the court and comes at the expense of the convicted individual, adding another layer of financial and personal consequence to the DWI conviction. Compliance with IID requirements is closely monitored, and any violation can lead to further legal penalties and an extension of the IID period.
When you have been charged with an alcohol-related offense in New York, getting skilled legal assistance can help mitigate your charges and potential penalties. At Lebedin Kofman, LLC, criminal defense attorney Russ Kofman and our experienced team of New York DWI attorneys are there to diligently represent your rights and ease the outcome of your charges.
Navigating a DWI charge in New York requires a strategic and informed defense to effectively challenge the prosecution’s case. An experienced DWI attorney can deploy a variety of defense strategies tailored to the specifics of each case, leveraging a deep understanding of the law to protect clients’ rights and aim for the best possible outcome.
At Lebedin Kofman LLP, we understand that breathalyzer results are not infallible. Our strategies in challenging these results include scrutinizing the maintenance and calibration records of the breathalyzer device, the qualifications and actions of the administering officer, and the conditions under which the test was conducted. We also consider physiological factors that may affect BAC readings, such as medical conditions or diet, to ensure that the results are accurate and reliable.
Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are a common tool used by law enforcement in Manhattan and Nassau County to assess impairment. However, these tests have inherent limitations and can be prone to error. Factors such as uneven road surfaces, weather conditions, and the subject’s physical condition can all affect FST performance. An adept DWI defense attorney will examine these tests’ administration and the officer’s interpretation of the results, providing a critical analysis that may undermine the evidence’s credibility.
A fundamental aspect of any DWI defense is the evaluation of the initial traffic stop. Law enforcement must have probable cause to stop a vehicle. Without it, any evidence gathered during the stop may be inadmissible in court. By thoroughly investigating the circumstances leading to the stop, a skilled attorney can question whether the officer had a valid reason to initiate the encounter, potentially leading to the suppression of evidence and weakening the prosecution’s case.
To achieve a dismissal of DWI charges, defense attorneys typically employ one of three fundamental categories of arguments:
Before a trial for a DWI offense can commence, the state is required to clear an initial legal hurdle. The court must be satisfied that there is adequate evidence to suggest that, should the prosecution present its case in full and the defense offer no counterarguments, a conviction would be possible. This is a basic filter to ensure the court’s time is not expended on a trial unlikely to yield a conviction.
In practice, defense lawyers may argue that the state has failed to demonstrate guilt beyond a reasonable doubt or that the proceedings against their client are fundamentally flawed or unjust. These tactics are directed at one or more of the above categories, aiming to prevent the case from proceeding to trial or to secure an acquittal for the client.
A DWI incident can transpire under the most unexpected circumstances. Even a modest consumption of alcohol could impair your ability to operate a vehicle, potentially leading to a DWI arrest should you find yourself unable to drive safely, such as at a stoplight. DWI arrests can result from various scenarios, ranging from routine traffic stops to systematic sobriety checkpoints.
In the face of DWI allegations within NYC or Manhattan, the seasoned legal team at Lebedin Kofman LLP is your strategic ally. Our adept DWI lawyers are tailored to safeguard your liberties with a robust and assertive defense. We are committed to dissecting the complexities of your case and mobilizing a tenacious legal front. Elevate your defense with Lebedin Kofman LLP – where your rights are our priority, and your fight becomes our mission. Connect with us for unparalleled advocacy and to turn the tide in your DWI proceedings.
Call (646) 663-4430 or (516) 212-4209 now to activate the defense you deserve.
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“For the past year I’ve been fighting for my freedom. My world seemed like it was crashing before my eyes. I had 2 felony gun possession cases in Manhattan. From the beginning Russ and John were there. I was denied bail at my first hearing but they fought to over turn that so I can fight the case from the outside world instead of a jail cell. They even got my bail reduced to a reasonable number afterwards. Moving forward they faught hard and relentless. Until ultimately BOTH cases were dismissed. Miracles do happen.”
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“Arthur and his team demonstrate exceptional professionalism and legal expertise. I was so scared when I received a letter from the court but, Arthur and his team took the time to carefully explain my options and they worked with me to find a solution. Not only did they solve the problem, they got the case thrown out. I can’t praise their work enough. I’ve never written a review in my life , but, I had to for Lebedin Kofman LLP.”
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He was able to dismiss my case and save tons of money on future fines
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