Leandra's Law in Suffolk County

BY DANIEL G. RODGERS, ESQ.

Leandra's Law is a law in Suffolk County, New York, that was passed in November 2009. The law is named after Leandra Rosado, an 11-year-old girl who was killed in a drunk driving accident while riding in a car with her friend's mother, who was intoxicated.

The law makes it a felony offense for anyone to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs with a child who is 15 years of age or younger in the car. The penalties for violating Leandra's Law include up to 4 years in prison, fines, and the installation of an ignition interlock device in the offender's vehicle.

The ignition interlock device requires the driver to pass a breathalyzer test before the car can be started, and is designed to prevent drunk driving. Leandra's Law also requires the offender to attend a victim impact panel, which is a program that educates offenders about the impact of drunk driving on victims and their families.

If you or someone you know has been arrested in Suffolk County, you should seek the guidance of an experienced DWI Lawyer in Suffolk County to guide you through this process.