Tuesday, June 9, 2015

Ithaca Waterloo DWI lawyer: What is an AUO in the 3rd degree?

License to Drive --Corey Haim and Corey Feldman

WHAT IS AN AUO 3rd Charge in New York?


This is a very common charge in New York when you are DRIVING WITHOUT A VALID LICENSE.  

AUO stands for "Aggravated Unlicensed Operation"

AUO in the 3rd degree is a MISDEMEANOR (a crime) in NY.
*NOT a mere traffic violation

If you plead guilty or are found guilty of AUO 3rd, then you will have a criminal record for the rest of your life.  

So that's why it is a big deal.

AUO in the 3rd degree occurs: 

when a person operates a motor vehicle on a PUBLIC HIGHWAY while KNOWING or HAVING REASON TO KNOW that his license or his privilege to operate a motor vehicle is suspended or revoked. 

The elements to prove AUO in the 3rd degree are:

-operated (drove)
-a motor vehicle
-on a public highway
-knowing or SHOULD HAVE KNOWN
-license was suspended or revoked

All of the above elements MUST be present in order to prosecute somebody of this crime.  Also, the Court paperwork must contain all of these elements to be acceptable. 

PENALTIES:

-up to 30 days in jail
-$200-$500 fine
-court surcharge
-a Conditional Discharge (stay out of trouble)

BOTTOM LINE:

This may appear to be a minor traffic offense, but since criminal records are NEVER EXPUNGED in New York, it is critical to take these cases seriously.  It is in your best interest to consult with a local criminal attorney to address AUO 3rd charges. If you have AUO 2nd or 1st ---the charges become even more serious.  AUO 1st is a Felony in NY.


BY:  Attorney Mike Cyr 

P:  607-229-5184

Twitter:   @ithacadwi