Your Syracuse
DWI Attorneys
A DWI charge can have a catastrophic lifetime impact. Cambareri & Brenneck, your criminal defense team, can help.
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Syracuse DWI Attorneys
Trust former prosecutors to handle your DWI case.
What Do I Do if I'm Pulled Over?
If you are pulled over, remain calm and respectful with law enforcement officers by providing your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. Beyond that, remember that you have the right to remain silent and do not need to answer further questions. In the event of a DWI-related stop, it is advisable to reach out to a Syracuse DWI attorney as soon as possible.
Explore your legal options with an experienced and knowledgeable former prosecutor before a plea deal is entered. We take all situations into consideration to get you the best results.
What if I Wasn't Read My Miranda Rights?
If you are arrested and not read your Miranda rights, any statements you make may be inadmissible in court. However, during a traffic stop, these rights don’t have to be read unless you are taken into custody and questioned. In such cases, it is crucial to consult with a knowledgeable DWI attorney to ensure your rights are protected.
At Cambareri & Brenneck we
regularly examine whether or not:
There have been civil rights violations against our client.
There are violation of search and seizure laws.
There are misconduct issues.
There are pieces of evidence that should be suppressed.
There have been chain-of-evidence issues.
There are witnesses (or other evidence) that dispute the state's version of events.
Do I Have a Right to Remain Silent?
Yes, under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination. You can exercise this right at any point during an interaction with law enforcement, including during a DWI stop. It is important to explicitly state that you are exercising this right.
When it is appropriate, Cambareri & Brenneck will advocate for our clients’ eligibility for these programs. For more information on the allegations against you, the possible penalties, and what our team is prepared to do to secure the most favorable outcome possible, call our offices today.
Explore Your Options with Our Syracuse
DWI Lawyers
Are you facing DWI charges in NY? It only takes a momentary lapse in judgment to find yourself accused of drunk driving. These are criminal charges that occur among all ages and walks of life and often occur to drivers who have never been in trouble with the law before. Regardless of your circumstances, if you have been charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) it is advised you speak with an experienced defense attorney immediately.
Our Syracuse DWI and DWAI lawyers at Your Criminal Defense are backed by 40+ years of experience. We understand the challenges and concerns drunk driving defendants face as they confront the allegations against them. Many of them believe that pleading guilty is the quickest way to resolve their case—but are unaware that they have viable defense options. Our team of former prosecutors can help you assess those options and ensure your rights and interests remain a priority throughout every stage of your case.
DWI Penalties
Loss of License
Probation
Significant Fines & Penalties
License Restriction
Employment Consequences
CDL Consequences
Understanding DWI in Syracuse
The most common DWI charges:
Commercial License DWI
Driving a commercial vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeding the legal limit. This charge specifically applies to individuals who hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and are operating a commercial vehicle at the time of the offense.For a first-time DWI offense in New York, for example, a person could face a fine ranging from $500 to $1,000, up to one year in jail, and a minimum six-month license suspension. However, the exact penalties can vary depending on the individual’s blood alcohol content and other factors.
First-Time Offenders
In general, the legal system tends to be more lenient towards first-time offenders. For many offenses, especially less serious ones, a first-time offender may be eligible for diversion programs or alternative sentencing options, such as probation instead of jail time. These alternative programs often focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, with the goal of reducing the likelihood of future offenses.
For a first-time DWI offense in New York, for example, a person could face a fine ranging from $500 to $1,000, up to one year in jail, and a minimum six-month license suspension. However, the exact penalties can vary depending on the individual’s blood alcohol content and other factors.
Multiple Offenses
Repeat offenders typically face harsher penalties compared to first-time offenders. If a person is charged with a second offense, the court often views it as a sign that the person didn’t learn their lesson or take their responsibilities seriously after the first offense.
For a second-time DWI offense within 10 years in New York, it is considered a Class E felony, which could result in fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, a jail sentence of up to 4 years, and a minimum one-year license revocation. The defendant may also be required to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle they own or operate.
Additionally, having prior convictions can negatively affect the defendant’s standing in the eyes of the court and potentially limit their available defense strategies. For example, it might be more difficult to negotiate plea deals or qualify for diversion programs or other leniencies.
Aggravated DWI
This charge involves driving with a blood alcohol content significantly higher than the legal limit or with a child in the vehicle. Aggravated DWI charges carry severe penalties, and our attorneys are experienced in handling such cases.
DWAI
Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) by alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in New York State. We offer expert legal assistance to navigate these charges.
Vehicular Assault & Manslaughter
This is a severe charge, usually involving a DWI offense that results in the death of another person and has other aggravating factors. You will need a determined legal defense, which our team can provide.
Interlock Violation
If you violate the terms of an ignition interlock device requirement, you could face additional penalties. Our team can help you understand the laws and penalties associated with such violations.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving, particularly in combination with a DWI charge, can lead to serious consequences. Our team is prepared to offer you the best possible defense.
Driving High
A DWAI drugs charge can have severe driving and life impacts on those charged. Your criminal defense team can help.
Your Defense Team
Steve Cambareri
Partner, Attorney
Scott Brenneck
Partner, Attorney
(Ret.) Judge
John Centra
Special Counsel
Melissa Swartz
Attorney
Joe Centra
Attorney
Ken Tyler
Attorney
Michele Previte
Office Manager
