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Should I plead innocent for DWI with a .07 as first offense & what should I do before my court date if I can't afford a lawyer?
Anonymous3 views5 answers
I was detained by an officer on my way back to my apartment after having Thanksgiving dinner with some friends. My roommate had lent me his car for the weekend, while he was out of town. Since I don't usually drive around, I got lost (the officer detained me after I drove around the same area twice). I had taken a glass of whiskey, so the officer noticed the smell and he asked me to take the tests. After the preliminary tests, I got arrested for alleged driving while intoxicated (without having my rights read at the time). The BAC was measured by test as 0.07% and they also charged me with invasion of another lane (which I don't recall having done) and not using the signal when turning onto another street. I have no criminal record, nor I have been arrested ever before for anything.
Your case does look defensible. First, stop posting facts about your case on the Internet. In fact, stop talking to everyone on this planet, except a qualified criminal defense lawyer, about the case. Contact local defense lawyers and schedule appointments to speak with them. Worry about price later . . . but plan on spending money now, to avoid paying big-time later.
You can be convicted of either the misdemeanor under the common law or the traffic infraction (based on the .07 BAC). If you are indigent, ask the Judge to appoint you a lawyer.
Enter a plea of not guilty. If at all possible, have an attorney with you at your initial appearance.
DWI is a crime - and a criminal record will seriously impact your life and your future. Find a way to hire an experienced DWI attorney who can defend you from this life altering charge. This is not the time to be blase or to economize.
Christopher I Simser, Sr.
Anelli Xavier
269 West Jefferson Street
Second Floor
Syracuse, NY 13202
You need the assistance of an experienced, local criminal defense attorney who regularly handles DWI cases, who is comfortable in the courtroom and who enjoys a strong working relationship with the Tompkins County District Attorney's Office. Such a lawyer will fully discuss the legal issues in your case and advise how best to handle it. Contact an attorney right away, before your first court appearance. If you cannot afford one, ask the court to determine if you are eligible for an appointed attorney.
