A Common Offense With Major Consequences

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol ranks among the most prevalent crimes. Even individuals far from being “hardened criminals” frequently face drunk-driving charges. Additionally, drunk driving stands out as one of the few offenses individuals can unwittingly commit. Many DUI and DWI cases originate from individuals consuming just a few drinks and driving home, unaware they surpass the legal limit.

Despite their commonality, DUI and DWI charges carry severe repercussions upon conviction. Buffalo Criminal Defense Attorney Louis C. Mussari offers a robust, strategic defense against these charges. With nearly a decade of experience as an Erie County criminal prosecutor, he possesses the expertise to challenge these charges effectively and minimize potential consequences.

If facing accusations of DUI or DWI in or around Buffalo, New York, Louis C. Mussari, Criminal Attorney, stands ready to provide assistance.

What Is The Difference Between DUI And DWI In New York?

First, it is important to understand the differences between DWI and DUI in New York:

DWI, or driving while intoxicated, involves driving while being impaired by alcohol. A charge of drunk driving per se can include anyone driving over the legal limit of 0.08% blood alcohol content (BAC).
DUI, or driving under the influence, can include alcohol, but it also includes driving under the influence of other drugs.
DWAI, or driving while ability impaired, can be charged when the driver is still under the legal limit but is still too impaired to drive safely. This is a lesser offense than the other two, but it is still serious.

In most cases, the penalties and severity of the charges are directly related to the amount of alcohol in the driver’s system, the existence of any past drunk-driving convictions and other aggravating factors.

Chemical Tests And Refusal To Submit

New York operates under the implied consent concept, which means that, by getting behind the wheel of your car and driving in New York, you are consenting to taking a breath or blood test to check for intoxication levels when requested by the police.

Refusal to submit to a legal test of this kind is a crime in its own right, and you will face separate prosecution. Plus, you could face the penalties for refusing to submit to a test, and they could still convict you for drunk driving.

Buffalo’s Premier Criminal Defense Lawyer: Your Strong Ally Against DWI/DUI Charges

Louis C. Mussari, Criminal Defense Lawyer in Buffalo, is dedicated to assisting clients in effectively challenging DWI/DUI charges. With a wealth of experience and legal acumen, he meticulously crafts individualized defense strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. Understanding the serious implications of DWI/DUI charges, Louis strives to minimize potential consequences and protect his clients’ rights. Clients can trust in Louis C. Mussari, Attorney at Law, to provide relentless advocacy and steadfast support throughout the legal process.

DWI/DUI – Legal Overview

The tabs below contain some additional legal information on DWI/DUI in the State of New York.

Alcohol & Drug Related Violations
Possible Penalties
Defense Strategies

At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with facing DWI/DUI charges. Our deep knowledge of DWI/DUI laws allows us to provide you with a robust defense, aimed at minimizing penalties and safeguarding your rights. We are committed to offering personalized legal counsel, guiding you through each step of the legal process to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we know that facing DWI/DUI charges can be a daunting experience, filled with uncertainty and concern for your future. With our years of experience in handling DWI/DUI cases, we are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the legal system, advocating for your rights and working tirelessly to achieve the most favorable outcome. Our client-centered approach ensures that you receive compassionate, personalized legal representation throughout the entire process.

Aggravated DWI: $1,000 – $2,500 fine, 1-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least one year.
Second Aggravated DWI in 10 years: $1,000 – $5,000 fine, 4-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least 18 months.
Third Aggravated DWI in 10 years: $2,000 – $10,000 fine, 7-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least 18 months.

DWI or DWAI-Drug: $500 – $1,000 fine, 1-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least six months.
Second DWI or DWAI-Drug in 10 years: $1,000 – $5,000 fine, 4-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least one year.
Third DWI or DWAI-Drug in 10 years: $2,000 – $10,000 fine, 7-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least one year.

Note: Possible penalties and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.

At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand the life-altering implications of a DWI/DUI charge and are committed to standing by your side. Our specialized defense strategies in DWI/DUI cases are meticulously designed to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, protect your rights, and aim for reduced penalties or even case dismissal. We work closely with you to tailor a defense that aligns with the unique circumstances of your case, ensuring the most favorable outcome possible.

Unlawful Search Under the Fourth Amendment: If law enforcement did not have probable cause for a search, any sample taken (breath, urine, or blood) may have been obtained unlawfully. This could lead to the evidence being thrown out.
Warrantless Blood Test and the Fourth Amendment: Police must have a warrant to order a blood test unless there are specific exigent circumstances. Failure to obtain a warrant could make the blood test unlawful.
Faulty or Improperly Administered Breathalyzer: If the breathalyzer machine was defective or the test was not administered properly, the results may not be used against you.
Tainted Chemical (Blood or Urine) Test Results: If the chemical test was not completed accurately or the sample was not stored properly, the results could be tainted and may not be used against you.

Note: Defense strategies and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.

Alcohol & Drug Related Violations
Possible Penalties
Defense Strategies

At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with facing DWI/DUI charges. Our deep knowledge of DWI/DUI laws allows us to provide you with a robust defense, aimed at minimizing penalties and safeguarding your rights. We are committed to offering personalized legal counsel, guiding you through each step of the legal process to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we know that facing DWI/DUI charges can be a daunting experience, filled with uncertainty and concern for your future. With our years of experience in handling DWI/DUI cases, we are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the legal system, advocating for your rights and working tirelessly to achieve the most favorable outcome. Our client-centered approach ensures that you receive compassionate, personalized legal representation throughout the entire process.

Aggravated DWI: $1,000 – $2,500 fine, 1-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least one year.
Second Aggravated DWI in 10 years: $1,000 – $5,000 fine, 4-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least 18 months.
Third Aggravated DWI in 10 years: $2,000 – $10,000 fine, 7-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least 18 months.

DWI or DWAI-Drug: $500 – $1,000 fine, 1-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least six months.
Second DWI or DWAI-Drug in 10 years: $1,000 – $5,000 fine, 4-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least one year.
Third DWI or DWAI-Drug in 10 years: $2,000 – $10,000 fine, 7-year maximum jail term, license revoked for at least one year.

Note: Possible penalties and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.

At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand the life-altering implications of a DWI/DUI charge and are committed to standing by your side. Our specialized defense strategies in DWI/DUI cases are meticulously designed to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, protect your rights, and aim for reduced penalties or even case dismissal. We work closely with you to tailor a defense that aligns with the unique circumstances of your case, ensuring the most favorable outcome possible.

Unlawful Search Under the Fourth Amendment: If law enforcement did not have probable cause for a search, any sample taken (breath, urine, or blood) may have been obtained unlawfully. This could lead to the evidence being thrown out.
Warrantless Blood Test and the Fourth Amendment: Police must have a warrant to order a blood test unless there are specific exigent circumstances. Failure to obtain a warrant could make the blood test unlawful.
Faulty or Improperly Administered Breathalyzer: If the breathalyzer machine was defective or the test was not administered properly, the results may not be used against you.
Tainted Chemical (Blood or Urine) Test Results: If the chemical test was not completed accurately or the sample was not stored properly, the results could be tainted and may not be used against you.

Note: Defense strategies and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.

Testimonials

    
 
 
        
   Mike Gherman 
 2024-06-03
 
 
  I called Louis  Mussari Saturday June 1 told him about what was going on with my Daughter when she came back in from Canada I have to tell you he was on it right away and got released this after noon . Got to say he was the best..
  
 
       
   Jameel Williams 
 2024-05-02
 
 
  Mr Mussari, is probably the best attorney in Erie county. Very understanding to the inconsistencies of the justice system. He will take all the time necessary to explain the law and will work extremely hard to win the case. He is fearless in the court room and is not a attorney who is trying to make a quick dollar. That right there speaks volumes.
  
 
       
   Danielle Jones 
 2024-04-02
 
 
  The best Attorney I have ever encountered!! Very caring about your case and will fight his hardest to defend you and your rights!! He is very knowledgeable and reliable! The only time he doesn’t/cant answer is when he is in court, but gets right back to you asap! I would most definitely recommend choosing Mr.Mussari to defend anyone!
  
 
       
   Sonny 
 2024-04-02
 
 
  Great lawyer , u dnt deal with no secretary the number is a direct line to him , he always answers an if he cnt he will text a let u know . Always call u with any information he has on ur situation ,straight an up front with u , I would highly recommend him , he will go to hard for u
  
 
       
   erica loster 
 2024-03-06
 
 
  Louis Mussari was informative and knowledgeable of the court system and the court process told us trust the process and him and we did and it turned out great I would recommend them for all criminal cases
  
 
       
   Marjorie Baker 
 2024-01-25
 
 
  Attorney Mussari is a kind, caring, attentive and knowledgeable lawyer.
He always answered our phone calls answering all questions we had.
With his knowledge of the law and attention to all details he achieved the best possible outcome.
You were kind and informative with the client who is grateful and appreciative of your treatment of and interaction with them.
I cried tears of joy at hearing the verdict. I couldn’t have hoped for a better outcome.
Thank you  so very much.
I would highly recommend you to anyone needing your services.
  
 
       
   Angelica michell 
 2024-01-08
 
 
  Mr. Mussari is not only an attorney he is a kind caring person that will drop what he is doing to answer a call and your questions. Mr. Mussari will not stop his fight until you are satisfied and will get you the best results there is and even better.
  
 
       
   Ya Moms 
 2023-12-01
 
 
  Best lawyer ever actually goes the extra length For you even if it’s 1-100 cases he has. Got my case dismissed because he actually went thought every Sanrio possible.I promise you want him representing you at all cost. Hell never give up on you he’ll keep fighting until he can’t anymore
  
 
       
   Lui. 
 2023-11-10
 
 
  Mr. Mussari guided us, took care of our case with rigor, assertiveness, dedication and not to mention the special “peace of mind” for having Mr. Mussari on every step of the way. At the end, a fantastic result. He always returned our calls almost immediately. He is clear, direct, does not cut corners, and extremely focused on the best results. I could not be more grateful; I am honored to recommend Mr. Mussari. All the best Mr. Mussari and God bless you for all you have done for our family.

Ask Yourself: Can You Afford Not To Call?

The decisions you make in the next days and weeks are critical. Will you get to keep living your life or will spend time in jail, pay thousands of dollars in fines, and suffer consequences for employment, education and where you live? Make the wise choice and call Louis C. Mussari, Attorney at Law, at 716-430-2147.

Click Here to Save Mr. Mussari’s Contact Info

Contact Us

DWI/DUI