New York DWI Lawyer Rachel Kugel Explains the Right to a Jury Trial in DWI Cases

September 16, 2025 at 14:12 PM EDT

Facing a DWI charge in New York raises urgent legal questions, especially when it comes to trial options. New York DWI lawyer Rachel Kugel (https://thekugellawfirm.com/can-you-get-a-jury-trial-for-your-dui-case/) of The Kugel Law Firm provides clarity on whether a jury trial is available in these cases and how that decision can impact the outcome. Understanding this right is essential when evaluating legal options and building a defense strategy.

A DWI charge in New York is classified as a criminal matter, which activates the constitutional right to a jury trial under the Sixth Amendment. As explained by New York DWI lawyer Rachel Kugel, this right generally applies to both standard and aggravated DWI charges. The presence of this right means that defendants are not limited to a bench trial. “If you are charged with Aggravated DWI in New York, you can seek a jury trial, too,” states Kugel in the article. Choosing between trial types involves considering the facts of the case, the nature of the evidence, and the possible consequences.

Legal outcomes in DWI cases can vary significantly. Many cases result in plea deals, while others proceed to trial. New York DWI lawyer Rachel Kugel highlights that defendants often have the option to select either a jury trial or a bench trial. This choice requires careful analysis of how each format works. A jury trial involves a group of peers who evaluate the facts and reach a verdict. In contrast, a bench trial allows a judge to decide both legal matters and the verdict, which may result in a faster and more predictable resolution.

In New York, misdemeanor DWI cases are typically tried by a six-person jury, while felony cases involve twelve jurors. The jury selection process, known as voir dire, plays a critical role. During this phase, attorneys for both sides, along with the judge, question potential jurors to identify bias or other factors that might affect impartiality. Rachel Kugel emphasizes that proper questioning during jury selection can uncover opinions about alcohol, field sobriety tests, and law enforcement practices that could influence deliberations. Only jurors deemed fair and impartial are sworn in.

The Kugel Law Firm, led by Rachel Kugel, concentrates on defending individuals charged with Driving While Intoxicated in New York. With a calm and strategic approach, the firm addresses urgent matters such as protecting driving privileges and preserving clean records. Rachel Kugel remains active in legal education and community engagement, including speaking invitations from AVVO, the NJ Bar Association, and Garden State CLE. Membership in the National College of DWI Defense and recognition on the SuperLawyer Rising Star list further reinforce the commitment to DWI defense.

Understanding the differences between bench and jury trials is essential for those facing DWI charges. Bench trials are typically faster and involve fewer procedural steps, making them more efficient in some cases. Judges in bench trials are often more focused on legal arguments and less influenced by emotional factors. Jury trials, however, can introduce greater uncertainty due to the human element involved in group decision-making. In emotionally charged cases or those involving serious injury, jurors may interpret evidence differently than a judge might.

Rachel Kugel outlines additional considerations that come with jury trials. A hung jury, where jurors fail to reach a unanimous decision, may result in a mistrial. This situation can leave the case unresolved, requiring a potential retrial or opening the door for new plea negotiations. Jury behavior can also be unpredictable. Even with clear legal instructions, jurors may be swayed by sympathy or public opinion, which can either help or hurt the defense. In contrast, judges tend to remain consistent in legal interpretation, providing more predictability in bench trials.

Legal strategy in a DWI case must consider time, cost, and risk. Jury trials generally take longer and require more court resources. The process of selecting jurors, presenting the case, and waiting for a verdict can add weeks or months to the timeline. Bench trials are more direct and typically conclude faster. However, each case brings unique challenges that must be carefully reviewed before selecting a trial format.

Legal counsel is essential for making this decision. Rachel Kugel encourages anyone facing a DWI charge to consult with a qualified attorney to understand all available options. Evaluating the facts of the arrest, the type of charges filed, and the potential consequences are key steps in preparing a defense. Every case deserves individual attention and a strategy tailored to its specific circumstances.

DWI charges carry serious implications, including fines, license suspension, and long-term record impact. A strategic legal approach, guided by an experienced New York DWI lawyer like Rachel Kugel, can help defendants protect their rights and choose the trial path that aligns with the case’s goals. Taking proactive steps early in the process often leads to stronger outcomes.

Exploring the possibility of a jury trial is one of many important choices in a DWI defense. Rachel Kugel advises those charged in New York to take immediate action, ask detailed questions, and build a defense plan that fits the facts. A well-prepared approach improves the chances of achieving the most favorable resolution.

About The Kugel Law Firm:

The Kugel Law Firm, based in New York, focuses on defending individuals charged with Driving While Intoxicated involving alcohol or drugs. Led by attorney Rachel Kugel, the firm prioritizes protecting client licenses, criminal records, and futures. Rachel Kugel is a member of the National College of DWI Defense and the DUI Defense Lawyers Association and has spoken at legal conferences including AVVO “Lawyernomics,” the NJ Bar Association, and Garden State CLE. The firm has received AVVO ratings and recognition on the SuperLawyer Rising Star list for three consecutive years.

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Phone: (212) 372-7218
Address:111 E 125th St 2nd Fl
City: New York
State: New York 10035
Country: United States
Website: https://thekugellawfirm.com/new-york-dwi-lawyer/

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New York DWI Lawyer Rachel Kugel Explains the Right to a Jury Trial in DWI Cases

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