New York DWI Attorney Rachel Kugel Shares Legal Insights on Driving While Intoxicated Per Se

February 07 16:40 2025
New York DWI Attorney Rachel Kugel Shares Legal Insights on Driving While Intoxicated Per Se

New York DWI attorney Rachel Kugel (https://thekugellawfirm.com/vehicle-and-traffic-law-1192-2-driving-while-intoxicated-per-se/), of The Kugel Law Firm, offers an in-depth exploration of DWI charges under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 1192.2. This statute focuses on cases involving a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, establishing the legal definition of “Driving While Intoxicated; Per Se.” Kugel’s recent article sheds light on the elements, defenses, and severe penalties associated with these charges, emphasizing the importance of addressing them with diligence.

Under VTL § 1192.2, the law targets individuals operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or more, as determined by chemical analysis. Unlike other DWI charges, the emphasis here is solely on BAC levels, irrespective of the driver’s apparent impairment or behavior. Rachel Kugel notes, “The per se violation is unique because it’s based entirely on quantifiable evidence of alcohol concentration, removing subjective interpretations from the equation.”

For prosecutors to secure a conviction under this statute, they must establish two critical elements beyond a reasonable doubt: (1) that the individual was operating a motor vehicle and (2) that their BAC was 0.08% or higher at the time of operation. Kugel highlights a hypothetical scenario illustrating how a person stopped at a sobriety checkpoint with a BAC of 0.09% could face a per se DWI charge despite showing no signs of impairment.

The penalties for a per se DWI conviction are significant, reflecting the serious nature of the offense. Even a first offense, categorized as a Class A misdemeanor, can result in fines ranging from $500 to $1,000, a jail term of up to one year, and a minimum license revocation of six months. Second and third offenses within ten years escalate to felonies, with fines reaching up to $10,000 and potential state prison sentences as long as seven years.

A conviction also results in additional consequences such as mandatory alcohol screening, ignition interlock device installation, and a permanent criminal record, all of which can impact employment and future mobility.

Rachel Kugel underscores that while the evidence for per se charges relies heavily on BAC readings, various defense strategies can be employed to challenge these cases. These include disputing the validity of the initial traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of chemical tests, and identifying procedural violations during the testing process. “Every aspect of the case must be scrutinized,” Kugel asserts. “From the traffic stop to the handling of chemical test results, each step presents an opportunity to protect the rights of the accused.”

Facing a DWI per se charge can be overwhelming, given the potential for long-term ramifications. Rachel Kugel and The Kugel Law Firm focus on providing comprehensive legal support tailored to the needs of those charged under New York’s stringent DWI laws. Kugel emphasizes the importance of understanding the charges and seeking knowledgeable representation to minimize their impact.

Rachel Kugel states, “A DWI conviction can redefine a person’s life, affecting their job, finances, and reputation. That’s why it’s vital to approach these cases with a clear strategy and unwavering determination to protect the client’s future.”

Those charged under VTL § 1192.2 are encouraged to act swiftly to safeguard their rights and explore potential defenses. The Kugel Law Firm offers clients a thorough assessment of their legal situation, aiming to achieve the best possible outcomes while mitigating the stress and uncertainty associated with DWI cases.

About The Kugel Law Firm:

The Kugel Law Firm, led by New York DWI attorney Rachel Kugel, is committed to providing top-tier legal support for individuals facing DWI and DUI charges. With a focus on understanding client needs and addressing each case with precision, the firm strives to deliver effective legal solutions aimed at protecting clients’ rights and interests.

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Contact Person: Rachel Kugel
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Phone: (212) 372-7218
Address:111 E 125th St 2nd Fl
City: New York
State: New York 10035
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Website: https://thekugellawfirm.com/new-york-dwi-lawyer/