New York County (Manhattan) DUI/DWI Lawyer | SRIS, P.C.
New York DWI Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options in Manhattan?
A DWI charge in New York County (Manhattan) under NY VTL § 1192 is a serious misdemeanor carrying up to one year in jail, fines, and license revocation. As a New York DWI lawyer, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for charges from the New York County Supreme Court.
New York DWI Law and Penalties
In New York, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is defined by Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 1192. The law prohibits operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher (per se DWI) or while impaired by alcohol or drugs (common law DWI). A first offense is typically a misdemeanor, but aggravating factors like a high BAC (0.18% or more) or having a child passenger under 15 (Leandra’s Law) can elevate the charge to a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to NY VTL § 1192 (New York State Senate). For court procedures and forms, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
Local Court Process for a Manhattan DWI Case
Your case will start with an arraignment at a local criminal court. The DMV will also start a separate administrative case against your license. A key local procedural fact is that you have only 15 days from your arrest to request a DMV refusal hearing to fight license suspension. Prosecutors in Manhattan courts often have specific policies for plea offers based on case details.
- Attend your arraignment and enter a plea of not guilty.
- File a request for a DMV refusal hearing within 15 days of arrest.
- Review all discovery evidence with your attorney, including police reports and calibration records.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a possible plea to a lesser charge like DWAI.
- Prepare for and attend pre-trial hearings to challenge evidence.
- Proceed to trial if a fair plea agreement cannot be reached.
Potential Penalties for a DWI Conviction
In New York County (Manhattan), a first DWI conviction carries penalties including jail time, fines, and a mandatory license revocation.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DWAI (Alcohol) | Traffic Infraction | Up to 15 days | $300 – $500 | 90-day suspension | Driver Responsibility Assessment |
| DWI (First Offense) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $500 – $1,000 | 6-month revocation | Ignition Interlock, DRA, possible alcohol program |
| Aggravated DWI (BAC 0.18+) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $1,000 – $2,500 | 1-year revocation | Enhanced fines and interlock period |
| DWI with Child Under 15 (Leandra’s Law) | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years | $1,000 – $5,000 | 1-year revocation | Ignition Interlock, felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in DWI Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We focus on a detailed review of each case, from the initial traffic stop to the calibration of breath test equipment. Our approach is to build a strong defense based on the specific facts of your situation.
Our Commitment to Your Case
We provide full representation for DWI charges in Manhattan. Every case is handled with attention to detail. We examine police procedures, challenge the validity of tests, and explore all options for a favorable outcome.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our New York DWI Law Firm
Our New York location serves clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts, accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all subway lines. We represent clients from neighborhoods across Manhattan, including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (838) 292-0003
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a DWI a felony in New York?
It depends. A first DWI is usually a misdemeanor. However, a DWI becomes a felony if it is a second offense within 10 years, if it causes serious injury, or if a child under 15 is in the vehicle (Leandra’s Law).
Can I get a conditional license after a DWI in NY?
Yes, you may be eligible for a conditional license. You must request a hardship hearing with the DMV. If granted, this license allows driving to work, school, medical appointments, and during a court-ordered alcohol program.
What is the Driver Responsibility Assessment?
It is a mandatory fee imposed by the NY DMV after a DWI or DWAI conviction. You must pay $250 per year for three years, totaling $750. This is also to any court fines.
How long will a DWI stay on my record?
A DWI conviction in New York remains on your criminal record permanently. It will also stay on your driving record for 15 years from the date of conviction, affecting insurance rates.
Should I take the breath test if stopped?
It depends. Refusing the test leads to an automatic one-year license revocation and a separate DMV hearing. However, taking and failing the test provides evidence for the criminal case. Discuss this specific choice with a New York DWI attorney.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing DWI charges in Manhattan, contact a New York DWI lawyer immediately. For other legal needs in the area, our firm also handles business law, civil litigation, and federal criminal defense. For DWI defense in other parts of New York, see our pages for Albany County and Broome County. Learn more about our statewide practice on our New York DUI Lawyer hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.