“You have a truly sharp legal mind and your courtroom presence is among the best. I am forever grateful for your two years of hard work, dedication and service to my father's case.” — R.C.

“I give Mr. Spano the highest possible recommendation. Mr. Spano helped me navigate a somewhat unorthodox legal matter, did so quickly, and always kept me informed.”

“Thanks for taking my case and getting me a not guilty verdict. You are a great lawyer. I could not asked for anything more. Please know you hold a special place in my family's heart.” — G.B.

“Many thanks for the very professional and gentlemanly way that you conducted yourself at the trial of my son. I along with all of my family were thrilled beyond words with the outcome.” — B.B.

“Thank you for assuring me that just because a good honest person makes a mistake does not mean they have to be treated like a criminal!” — D.S.

Proven Criminal Defense In Upstate New York

Driving While Ability Impaired By Drugs

The penalties for driving under the influence of drugs are the same as for driving drunk. But there are important differences between defending a DUI/DWAI for alcohol and defending a charge of DWAI drugs.

Michael Spano, a criminal defense attorney serving Syracuse and Central New York knows how to handle a drug-related DWAI as well as any related drug charges. He will use his over 30 years of experience to fight the charges and seek to minimize the impact on your life.

Call today to arrange a confidential, no-cost consultation.

Challenging An Arrest For DWAI Drugs

You can face DWAI charges (driving while ability impaired by drugs) for illegal drugs such as marijuana or cocaine, or for any legally prescribed drug such as OxyContin or Valium that affects your ability to drive safely.

A DUI (DWI) arrest is mostly based on a specific level of alcohol in your bloodstream. An arrest for DWAI drugs is usually based on (a) driving behavior observed by an officer and (b) an admission by the person that they had used drugs.

“I have been successful in challenging the traffic stop. If the officer did not have probable cause to pull you over, any statements, search or seizure may be inadmissible. I have also won cases by challenging the officer’s conduct and conclusions after pulling over a suspect. Did you admit to taking drugs? Did you give consent to a search? Were you read your rights when you were taken into custody? Did you pass field sobriety tests?” — Michael Spano

In addition to the impaired driving charges, we also provide strong defense for charges of drug possession.

Contact Michael Spano Today

An admission of taking drugs is not necessarily fatal to your case. As your lawyer, Michael Spano will hold police accountable for any violations of your rights, or make them prove that you were too impaired to drive.

Call our office at 315-350-3975 or contact us online. We are accessible after hours, and make it a point to return all calls and emails within hours if possible.