A DWAI charge in Putnam County carries up to 1 year in jail under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. A strong defense can reduce or dismiss the charge. Call (888) 437-7747.
Last verified: April 2026 | Putnam County Supreme Court | NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192 (official New York State Senate)
DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) is defined under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192. It is a traffic infraction, not a criminal offense, but carries serious consequences. A DWAI conviction adds points to your driving record and can lead to license suspension. Unlike DWI, DWAI requires proof of impairment by any drug or alcohol to any extent.
For more information, review the NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192 (official New York State Senate) and the Putnam County Supreme Court website.
In Putnam County, DWAI cases are handled in local courts. Plea bargaining is available, unlike in NYC Traffic Violations Bureau hearings. Your attorney can negotiate for reduced charges or dismissal.
- Contact a DWAI lawyer Putnam County immediately after the ticket.
- Gather all documents: ticket, license, insurance.
- Attend all court dates at the Putnam County court.
- Review plea options with your attorney.
- Complete any required alcohol education program.
- Follow up on license reinstatement after case resolution.
In Putnam County, a DWAI carries up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $500, and license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DWAI (First Offense) | Traffic Infraction | Up to 15 days | $300 – $500 | 90-day suspension | Driver Responsibility Assessment: $100/year for 3 years |
| DWAI (Second Offense within 5 years) | Traffic Infraction | Up to 30 days | $500 – $750 | 6-month suspension | Driver Responsibility Assessment: $100/year for 3 years |
| DWAI (Third Offense within 10 years) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $750 – $1,500 | 1-year revocation | Driver Responsibility Assessment: $100/year for 3 years |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across NY, VA, MD, NJ, and DC.
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. These results span NY, VA, MD, NJ, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our New York location serves clients at Putnam County courts, accessible via I-87 (NYS Thruway), I-84, and Taconic State Parkway.
Looking for a DWAI lawyer near me Putnam County? We serve Carmel, Brewster, Cold Spring, Mahopac, Putnam Valley, Kent, and Patterson.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
What is the difference between DWAI and DWI in Putnam County?
Yes. DWAI is a traffic infraction for impairment by any drug or alcohol to any extent. DWI requires a BAC of 0.08% or higher. DWAI carries lighter penalties but still affects your license.
Can a DWAI be reduced to a lesser charge in Putnam County?
It depends. In Putnam County local courts, plea bargaining is available. Your attorney may negotiate for a reduction to a non-moving violation, which carries no points.
How long does a DWAI stay on your record in New York?
A DWAI conviction stays on your driving record for 10 years. Points remain for 18 months. The conviction is visible to insurance companies and employers.
Do I need a lawyer for a DWAI in Putnam County?
Yes. A DWAI lawyer Putnam County can negotiate for reduced charges, avoid license suspension, and minimize fines. Self-representation often leads to harsher penalties.
What happens if I refuse a chemical test in Putnam County?
Refusing a chemical test results in an automatic 1-year license revocation under NY law. A refusal hearing is required. An attorney can represent you at that hearing.
Can I get a DWAI dismissed in Putnam County?
It depends. Dismissal is possible if the officer lacked probable cause, the test was improperly administered, or procedural errors occurred. An attorney can challenge the evidence.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-20. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.