New York City DWI Lawyers Russ Kofman and Arthur Lebedin Discuss the Alternative Programs for First-Time DWI Offenders

New York City DWI lawyers Russ Kofman and Arthur Lebedin release a new article (https://www.lebedinkofman.com/alternative-programs-for-first-time-offenders/) explaining the alternatives for DWI offenders. According to the lawyers, it is important for an individual to understand exactly where their case is taking place. Because of strict guidelines for such cases, there are some places like Manhattan that do not offer alternative programs to DWI offenders.

According to the article from the New York City DWI lawyers, “We may be able to get a defendant a two-step conditional plea, meaning you would have to plead guilty to a misdemeanor and then participate in a program. You would then either have to wear an ankle bracelet for three or six months to monitor your alcohol levels, or you would have a keychain called a BACtrack which you would have to breathe into a couple of times a day to show that you were not consuming alcohol.”

Attorney Arthur Lebedin says that a person who is charged with a DWI offense could also be subject to TASC monitoring. To prove they did not consume alcohol, the defendant must come to court and submit a urine sample for at least one week. It may take longer for AEP (Alcohol Education Program), and DDP (Drunk Driving Program).

Defense attorney Russ Kofman adds that an "Ignition Interlock Device" may be installed for up to six months or a year for someone convicted of a DWI offense. The lawyer said that rehabilitative programs might be offered to someone who has been convicted of DWI for the first time.

“People who end up going through these programs generally have a much better understanding and appreciation for why this should never happen again and why they should stay out of trouble, as compared to the prosecutor’s approach or perspective that no, they did not need these types of programs and that you had to take a misdemeanor because your reading was above a 0.14,” says attorney Russ Kofman

Furthermore, attorney Kofman says that these programs are usually effective because they can be a hassle to attend every week and then go back to court every couple of months. Unfortunately, not all counties in New York offer these alternative programs.

Lastly, the lawyers emphasize the importance of having a skilled lawyer when facing charges of DWI. An experienced lawyer may be able to help the defendant understand their rights and protect their freedom.

About Lebedin Kofman LLP

Russ Kofman is a seasoned, aggressive litigator handling cases in both the state and federal courts. He is a managing partner of the Lebedin Kofman Law firm. The lawyer handles civil rights cases as well as family law, high-net-worth divorce, and highly contested custody cases. Attorney Kofman believes in his clients and works hard to fight for their rights and help them receive the best possible outcome for each of their cases. Call today to speak with attorney Russ Kofman: (646) 663-4430.

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