Christopher Wagner, Attorney in our Syracuse office, recently gave a presentation to students of Cobleskill-Richmondville High School. Below is Christopher’s account of the event.
On Friday, May 20, 2016, I had the opportunity to speak at the Cobleskill-Richmondville High School Pre-Prom Wellness Fair. To help avoid the too often heard stories of high school students becoming victims of DWI related incidents, this event was held to educate students about the consequences and ramifications of DWI. The group, comprising about 100 students, was very receptive and engaged throughout. I could tell that this group of students had serious respect for the laws of New York State, and had been well informed of the costs, both personal and financial, of DWI.
Of special relevance to the group is New York State’s ‘Zero Tolerance Law’. While some students were aware of its importance, the majority were unfamiliar with this strict alcohol-related law. I made sure that every student present left with the understanding that in New York State, individuals under the age of 21 who operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .02% or more can lose their driver’s licenses regardless of whether they are actually impaired to any extent. Of course, these bright students completely understood that this strict policy was created with the aim of protecting young peoples, and not meant solely as a punishment.
My goal heading into this event was to leave confident that the students had been made aware, and understood the negative effects that not only DWI, but any criminal activity, would have on them as they head into college or any other post high school activity.
Christopher Wagner
Attorney
