The state of New York has strict laws about driving while intoxicated (DWI) that can include heavy fines and jail time. If law enforcement charges you with aggravated DWI, the penalties increase and include revocation of your driver’s license for up to a year. Are you...
Chatham Law Blog
Binge drinking, underage drivers and the potential for crashes
The zero-tolerance policy is in force everywhere in the U.S. When behind the wheel, the young driver in your family cannot have any alcohol in his or her system. Unfortunately, underage drivers are more likely than adults to binge drink, and many drive with a high...
Do I need a lawyer for my first DWI?
You might not think a lawyer is necessary for your first DWI. However, this can be a huge mistake as you may receive unjust penalties without legal counsel. According to the New York DMV, your first driving while impaired offense may carry a one-year jail term. If you...
A DWI conviction can make job hunting a frustrating task
A conviction for driving while intoxicated (DWI) will follow you and possibly hamper your efforts to find suitable employment. However, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) provides arrest and conviction guidelines for employers. Will these guidelines...
Are careless and reckless driving the same?
Facing any traffic citation may set you back financially, not to mention the implications for your license and driving record. Getting stopped by the police and charged with driving erratically or dangerously may leave you facing more than a ticket. Understanding the...
Federal government changes its harsh drug policy
In 1971, President Richard Nixon announced what would become a decades-long war on drugs. This war sent thousands of Americans to prison simply for possessing small amounts of controlled substances. According to the Drug Policy Alliance, the war on drugs had little...
Should you talk about your arrest on social media?
Social media seems to be more than a passing trend. In fact, according to the Pew Research Center, roughly 70% of Americans use online platforms to maintain contact with family members, friends and followers. Depending on your social media usage, it even may help you...
Factors that can affect your blood-alcohol level
If you find yourself facing drunk driving charges, your life could unravel quickly. Whether you lose your driving privileges, have to pay a steep fine, suffer damage to your reputation or even have to spend time behind bars, drunk driving charges are very serious....
Why does drinking have higher risks for older adults?
While most people understand the risks of driving while under the influence of alcohol, you may not realize the impact alcohol has on you before picking up your keys. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, your body handles alcohol differently...
Compelling reasons to keep details about your case confidential
Facing criminal charges may leave you feeling frustrated and defensive. When people inquire about your circumstances, you may feel driven to defend yourself or clarify what really happened. However, talking about your situation may jeopardize your case and its...