
Serious, Aggressive Defense Against DWI Charges in New York
Drunk driving is a crime that nearly anyone could be charged with. It is among the most common criminal charges nationwide, in part because it often happens by mistake. Nonetheless, the consequences of a DWI conviction can be severe. If you’ve been charged with a drunk driving offense in Nassau or Suffolk counties, you can find the legal help you need by contacting Mary C. Hartill, PLLC, Attorney at Law.
New York law has changed to disallow plea bargaining to a reduced charge of driving while ability impaired (DWAI) in cases where the driver has either refused a blood-alcohol test or the test result is too high. In light of this, it is more important than ever to work with an experienced attorney like Ms. Hartill if you are facing charges related to alleged drunk driving.
There Are Multiple Paths to a DWI Conviction
Driving while intoxicated is defined as operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) at or above 0.08%. A test result showing that you are above the legal limit is one way to be charged with (and eventually convicted of) drunk driving, but it is not the only way.
In some cases, an officer’s suspicions are enough to result in a DWI charge. If you refuse to participate in field sobriety tests and refuse to submit to tests of your BAC, you can still be arrested based on the officer’s observations that you appear to be significantly impaired.
If you are under the age of 21, it is even easier to be charged with and convicted of a drunk driving offense. Because you are below the legal drinking age, you can be charged with DWI if you have a BAC at or above 0.02%, which may be the equivalent of 1-2 drinks.


Don’t Just Accept Your Fate – Contest The Charges
How bad is a DWI conviction? A first-time offense can result in up to a year in jail, a fine of up to $1,000 and the loss of your license for up to six months. There are additional penalties for refusing to a test.
You can’t afford to simply admit defeat. But you can and should contest the charges. Acquittal isn’t always possible, but a skilled attorney like Ms. Hartill can almost always help you mitigate the consequences you are facing and protect your rights throughout the process. She has more than 15 years of experience in New York criminal law, including experience as a prosecutor. No matter what circumstances you are facing, she is ready to help you challenge the charges and the evidence in court.
Felony Criminal Charges Require the Help of a Highly Skilled Attorney
When you’re charged with a felony, your choice of defense attorney is crucial. Mary C. Hartill, PLLC, Attorney at Law, will work with you to build a strong case and present it in front of the judge. Ms. Hartill is a former prosecutor who now defends individuals facing serious criminal charges. She has been helping clients prove their innocence for decades, making her a great choice for your defense in Suffolk County or Nassau County.


What is a Felony?
A crime can be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. A felony is a more serious crime that often comes with a harsher sentence. Examples of felony offenses in New York include:
If you’re being charged with a felony, an experienced criminal defense attorney should be your first phone call. When you hire attorney Hartill, she will work quickly and efficiently to seek a reduction or dismissal of your charges, build a strong felony defense and aggressively advocate for you in court.