New York City Ignition Interlock Device Lawyer

While drunk driving laws have been increasing in severity for many years all across the nation, recent changes in New York have added a mandatory requirement that comes as a shock to many. Today, if you plead guilty or are convicted of any DWI charge —misdemeanor or felony, first-time or repeat offense — you will be ordered to install an approved ignition interlock device on any vehicle you own or operate for at least six months.

Even people who are aware of other harsh DWI consequences including jail time, fines, license suspension and dramatically increased insurance rates are likely to underestimate the real costs associated with the ignition interlock device requirement. It is more critical than ever before to turn to a lawyer who knows the law and viable defense strategies in-depth.

What Is an Ignition Interlock Device, and What Are the Costs?

An ignition interlock device (sometimes called an IID) is an alcohol detection system similar to a Breathalyzer that requires the driver to blow into a tube prior to starting the vehicle. If any level of alcohol is detected, the vehicle will not start.

After an installation cost in the $100 range, drivers must pay service charges that can easily reach hundreds more per month for multiple cars. Other little-known considerations include requirements that you use the device periodically while on the road, and that getting financial assistance for these devices involves even greater loss of privacy. The failure to install an IID can lead to a subsequent arrest and additional criminal penalties.

If a New York ignition interlock device attorney claims to be able to prevent you from being subject to this penalty, that attorney may not be fully informed or may not be telling you the whole story. Because this is now part of the statute itself, the only way to avoid mandatory use of an ignition interlock device is to avoid the DWI conviction itself — or to give up your vehicles.

For Straight Talk and Proven Defense Representation, Call 212-766-3366

To work with a defense attorney who has won many DWI acquittals and dismissals in courts throughout the New York City area, please contact our law firm now. You can count on solid information about all the consequences you could face, as well as a complete investigation of viable defense strategies in your case.