ROCHESTER CRIMINAL DEFENSE BLOG
Ending license suspension for traffic debt in New York
The practice of suspending a person's driver's license because they're unable to pay their traffic tickets is over. The New York Driver’s License Suspension Reform Act went into effect at the start of July 2021. More about the legislation The coalition Driven by...
What evidence is acceptable for a DWI charge in New York?
Driving while intoxicated in New York is a serious crime that can lead to brutal penalties; for example, you risk revocation of your driver's license, incarceration, and heavy fines. Sometimes, you can receive all of these punishments simultaneously; then, after your...
Drug charges could end your student loans
Many people are focusing on the student loan crisis because of the amounts that people owe. However, there are other injustices built into the system that makes life more difficult for students. One thing to be aware of is how a New York drug conviction could place...
Marijuana is now legal in New York State
New York now allows recreational marijuana, the culmination of an overwhelming legislative and executive push. The decriminalization of cannabis will boost the economy and those accused or convicted of marijuana-related offenses. What exactly is now legal? While New...
Some towns issue more tickets than others
Many traveling by car in upstate New York come across countless scenic suburbs, towns and hamlets when they leave the tollways and highways. Unfortunately, it seems that some local officials see these visitors as an opportunity for issuing a lot of moving violations....
Can I have my DWI or drug conviction overturned?
If you are convicted of a DWI or drug offense in New York, you may feel angry, frustrated and despondent. You may be concerned not only about the consequences of your offense, but how it will affect your life moving forward. Will you face problems getting a job,...
What to do during a traffic stop
The minute you see the flashing lights behind you, you can feel your heart beating harder. You wonder why police are pulling you over and what might happen during this traffic stop. You’re even more nervous because you have some meth in your glove compartment. Will...
Common sobriety tests used during a DWI stop
When a police officer has reason to believe someone is driving under the influence of alcohol, they will likely flash their lights, throw on their sirens and conduct a traffic stop. From there, the suspect will probably have to run through a series of tests before...
What is presumptive possession in New York?
Possession of an illegal drug is unlawful and, depending on the substance and amount found in possession can result in imprisonment and fines. In New York State, there is something called presumptive possession, which deals with drugs in a space and how it legally...
Governor extends driver’s license expiration dates
On March 20, Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued a shelter in place order, shuddering nonessential businesses and retailers, to curb the spread of COVID-19 in New York. As a result, all Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) offices have been closed until April 17 and driver’s...
