First Offense DUI

First-Offense DWI Lawyer in Rochester, NY

Defense Built on Knowing How the DWI Bureau Thinks

Before I defended DWI cases, I prosecuted them. As former Chief of the DWI Bureau at the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, I spent years evaluating arrests, building cases, and deciding which charges would hold up in court. That background shapes every defense I build now. When I review a first-offense DWI arrest, I’m looking at the same file a prosecutor may scrutinize, and I know exactly what they’re looking for.

My practice is based in Rochester, NY, and I concentrate on criminal defense. Over more than two decades handling DWI and DUI cases in Monroe County, I’ve developed a straightforward approach: review everything, challenge what can be challenged, and give every client an honest picture of where things stand. I listen without judgment and explain each step so you understand what’s happening and what comes next.

A first-offense DWI arrest in Monroe County carries real consequences. Call me at (585) 928-4193 for a free consultation and let’s talk through your situation.

How I Defend a First-Offense DWI Arrest

Running the DWI Bureau gave me a clear view of where prosecutors build their cases and where those cases can fall apart. Many of my dismissals have come from identifying illegal police stops, searches, and arrests before the case ever reaches trial. I write detailed suppression motions targeting those constitutional violations and cross-examine officers about their conduct during the stop and arrest. If the stop wasn’t lawful, the evidence that followed may not be admissible.

I stay personally involved from the initial court appearance through final resolution. I don’t hand your file to an associate, and I don’t disappear between court dates. If the news about your case is difficult, I’ll tell you directly rather than let you find out later. Past clients have secured dismissals, reduced charges, and no-jail outcomes. I work toward the best realistic result for each individual case.

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Testimonials

Helping Clients Move Forward
    “Mr. Rodeman got us the deal we needed”
    “Mr. Rodeman was able to get us the plea deal we needed from a difficult judge. He was honest and up front about the difficulties we could face, but prevailed to help us resolve our issue.”
    - Ray
    “A wonderful outcome”
    “Chris is down to earth, caring and understanding about the situation. He is very likeable and very well connected and never stops working for you until completion. Things turned out very favorable for us and we are grateful.”
    - Boylin
    “A true gentleman who knows what he's doing.”
    “Chris made what could have been a horrible situation into a much more manageable one and in the process helped turn my life around as well.”
    - Bob S
    “JUST HIRE CHRIS RODEMAN”
    “Mr Rodeman knows the system and its players from his days as a prosecutor. He is extremely professional, non-judgemental, and so competent in court. I could go on and on about how much we appreciate his help in our case.”
    - Kiki France-Perry
    “He is truly a phenomenal lawyer. ”
    He is truly a phenomenal lawyer. He cares about his clients and knows the Law. If you’re reading this, he is the person to go to. Mr. Rodeman is very dedicated and will help you receive the best possible outcome. He does a great job.

New York First-Offense DWI Penalties

New York defines DWI as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. A first conviction is generally charged as a misdemeanor and carries a mandatory fine of $500 to $1,000, up to one year in jail, and a minimum six-month license revocation. A mandatory $395 surcharge applies on top of any fine.

If your BAC was .18 or higher, the charge becomes aggravated DWI, even on a first arrest. An aggravated DWI conviction carries a fine of $1,000 to $2,500, up to one year in jail, and a minimum one-year license revocation.

Under Leandra’s Law, anyone sentenced for DWI in New York must install an ignition interlock device (IID) on any vehicle they own or operate, typically for a minimum of twelve months. That requirement comes on top of everything else, which is one reason contesting the charge rather than accepting a conviction can deserve serious consideration.

Why Choose Christopher K. Rodeman Attorney at Law?

  • Experience as a Special Assistant District Attorney
  • Flat-Rate Pricing for Cases Involving DWI
  • 24/7 Availability for Emergency Calls
  • Affordable Payment Plans

How a First-Offense DWI Moves Through Monroe County Courts

Depending on where the arrest occurred, your case may be handled in Rochester City Court or a Monroe County town or village court. Arrests by the Rochester Police Department, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, or the New York State Police all follow similar pathways into the local court system. First-time offenders are typically issued an appearance ticket rather than held, with bail for arraignment generally set between $500 and $1,000 when bail applies.

When you retain me, I begin by reviewing the police report, chemical test records, and any available video from the stop and arrest. That review drives every motion and decision that follows. Knowing what the arresting agency documented and what it may have omitted is where the defense starts.

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Demand Excellence

Talk to a Rochester DWI Attorney Before Your Next Court Date

A first-offense DWI arrest doesn’t have to end in a conviction. I offer a free initial consultation, flat-rate pricing for DWI cases, and payment plans so you know exactly what representation costs before you commit. I’m available for emergency calls around the clock.

Call (585) 928-4193 to speak with me directly. The sooner we review your case, the more options may be available.