DWI Attorney in Ulster County
Protecting Your Future After a DWI in Ulster County
When you face a DWI charge in Ulster County, you need clear guidance and immediate support. At Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein, our DWI lawyers in Ulster County offer strategic defense, relying on years of legal experience defending against DWI charges throughout the area.
Former prosecutors on our team provide unique insight into local legal procedures and courtroom strategies you might encounter. We focus on your concerns and address questions directly, giving you confidence from the moment you reach out.
Contact a DWI attorney in Ulster County. Call (888) 646-0025 or reach out online anytime to schedule a free initial consultation. Start your defense now!
Understanding New York's DWI Charges (VTL § 1192)
New York law features a multi-tiered system for intoxicated driving. A successful defense by an Ulster County DWI lawyer requires accurately challenging the specific subsection under which you are charged.
The Three Main Alcohol-Related Violations
- Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) (VTL 1192-1): The least severe charge, requiring a BAC greater than 0.05% but less than 0.07%, or other evidence of impairment. This is a traffic infraction.
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) (VTL 1192-2 & 1192-3): A misdemeanor charge. This requires a BAC of 0.08% or higher (per se DWI) or being in an "intoxicated condition" regardless of BAC.
- Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated (A-DWI) (VTL 1192-2a): The most severe offense (without injury), requiring a BAC of 0.18% or higher. This carries the harshest fines and mandatory license revocation.
We also defend against DWAI/Drugs (VTL 1192-4), which involves driving while ability is impaired by a drug, and Chemical Test Refusal, which triggers a separate administrative license revocation.
Why We're the Right Choice
Attentive Service. Strategic Defense.
Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein is here to help you get the results you need with a team you can trust.
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Personalized Legal StrategyWe don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every case is handled with a custom legal approach tailored to your goals, your circumstances, and your future.
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Risk-Free Consultation
We offer a risk-free evaluation of your case and are here to help you understand your legal options. We are available 24/7, day or night, to help you.
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Top-Rated Team
Nationally recognized for results. Our attorneys have been ranked among the best in the U.S., Trusted for their strategy, skill, and relentless client advocacy
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Former ProsecutorsOur founding partners are both former New York prosecutors who bring unique experience and insights to every case, especially when it comes to going to trial.
How Our DWI Lawyers Guide the Defense Process in Ulster County
A DWI conviction can result in license suspension, court fines, long-term driver’s license restrictions, and significant personal and professional consequences. When you work with our attorneys, you gain a partner who understands both the law and the unique roadmaps of Ulster County courts.
We make sure you know your rights and the possible consequences of each choice. Depending on your history and case details, you may encounter programs unique to Ulster County, such as court-mandated alcohol education or ignition interlock requirements.
Courts in locations like Kingston and New Paltz may offer diversion or treatment programs at their discretion. By tailoring advice to your situation and the realities of the local court, our team ensures your defense addresses all the moving pieces—never relying on generic tactics.
We support you throughout every stage of your DWI case in Ulster County, including:
- Describing how DWI laws apply specifically in Ulster County courts and police jurisdictions
- Clarifying steps for both first-time and repeat offenders
- Guiding you through hearing dates and administrative reviews related to your license
- Reviewing breath test and field sobriety results to evaluate available defenses
- Identifying realistic options for minimizing the impact of charges and penalties
We stay in constant contact, breaking down court updates and next steps so you always know what to expect. Our experienced DWI attorneys in Ulster County understand that informed clients are empowered clients—and we make your understanding a priority throughout the defense process.
Choose Raiser Kenniff, & Lonstein. Our DWI attorneys are committed to providing relentless defense in Ulster County. Contact (888) 646-0025 or fill out our contact form for immediate assistance.
a Reputation For excellence
Read Our Client Testimonials
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They treated me wonderfully and helped me out of a bind. I feel that this firm really cares.- Michelle A.
The DWI Case Timeline in Ulster County
After a DWI arrest in Ulster County, the process typically begins with your arraignment in one of the area’s local or county courts. Judges in these courts strictly enforce New York’s DWI laws, and law enforcement often relies on breathalyzer tests, body camera evidence, and police reports to build their case. Courts in Kingston, Saugerties, and throughout the region handle cases with their own scheduling priorities, which affect how quickly your matter will proceed from one step to the next.
Depending on your circumstances and the court's calendar, you might resolve the case through a negotiated plea or move forward to trial. Our DWI lawyer in Ulster County works to position your case effectively while keeping you informed about your rights, obligations, and every upcoming court date. With direct experience in these local courts, we set reasonable expectations for timelines and outcomes.
Key Stages in Ulster County DWI Cases
Here’s an overview of the process that follows a DWI arrest in the area:
- Arraignment: You appear before a judge, hear the charges, and receive bail or release conditions.
- Pretrial conferences: These discussions allow your lawyer and the prosecutor to exchange information and consider possible agreements.
- Administrative license hearings: Separate hearings can affect your right to drive while your criminal case is ongoing. A prompt, thorough response here matters.
- Additional court appearances: Depending on your choices and negotiations, you may return to court multiple times for hearings or trial.
- Plea negotiations or trial: Your attorney will explain the options for contested hearings, plea agreements, and the possible results of going to trial—always specific to the facts and community standards in Ulster County.
How Local Differences May Affect Your Case
While every DWI case in New York follows the same legal framework, Ulster County courts may set unique timelines for each step. Delays can happen during busy court periods or based on case complexity. Some courts in the region may encourage alternative resolutions, while others more strictly pursue conventional penalties. Our up-to-date understanding of these local variables allows us to guide you through every stage with confidence and integrity.
With clear, prompt communication, our criminal defense team ensures clients never feel lost or unprepared, no matter where they are in the process. You always know your options and the best way forward.
Contact Our Ulster County DWI Defense Lawyers Today
If you want answers you can trust, connect with the team at Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein. Speak with an experienced DWI attorney in Ulster County who will listen to your specific concerns and help you understand your available options. We bring years of focused defense to every local case, offer honest advice about what to expect, and start working with you from your first call—no pressure, just the practical guidance you need.
Prepare for your next step with confidence; contact us now at (888) 646-0025 to schedule a confidential consultation.