In New York County (Manhattan), a first DWI offense under NY VTL § 1192 carries up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. A Felony DWI Lawyer New York can help you fight these serious charges. Contact us today.
DUI/DWI Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan), NY
New York DWI Laws and Penalties
New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 1192 defines driving while intoxicated (DWI) as operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher (per se DWI under § 1192.2) or while impaired by alcohol (common law DWI under § 1192.3). A Felony DWI Lawyer New York is essential when facing aggravated charges, such as Leandra’s Law (VTL § 1192.2-a), which makes it a Class E felony to drive drunk with a child under 15 in the vehicle. A serious criminal charge lawyer New York can provide the defense you need.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | NY Senate Legislation
Official Legal Resources
- New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192 (official NY Senate)
- New York County Supreme Court (official NY Courts)
What to Expect in New York County (Manhattan) DWI Court
Arraignment occurs within 24 hours of arrest at the local criminal court. The DMV refusal hearing is a separate administrative proceeding that must be requested within 15 days. A hardship hearing may be available for a conditional license.
- Step 1: Contact a Felony DWI Lawyer New York immediately after arrest.
- Step 2: Request a DMV refusal hearing within 15 days.
- Step 3: Attend arraignment at the local criminal court.
- Step 4: Negotiate plea or prepare for trial.
- Step 5: Apply for a conditional license if eligible.
- Step 6: Complete any court-ordered programs.
In New York County (Manhattan), DWI penalties range from fines and jail time to license revocation and mandatory ignition interlock devices.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DWAI (first) | Violation | Up to 15 days | $300-$500 | Conditional license possible | Alcohol evaluation |
| DWI (first) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $500-$1,000 | 6-month revocation | DRA $250/year for 3 years |
| Aggravated DWI (BAC 0.18+) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $1,000-$2,500 | 1-year revocation | Ignition interlock required |
| Leandra’s Law (child under 15) | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | 1-year revocation | Ignition interlock required |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute in Virginia, demonstrating his deep legal experience.
Case Results
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our New York Location
Our New York location serves clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts, accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Hwy, all subway lines, Lincoln/Holland Tunnels, and GW Bridge.
DUI/DWI lawyer near Manhattan — serving 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.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New York have cash bail?
Yes, but NY reformed bail in 2020, eliminating cash bail for most misdemeanors and non-violent felonies. Most defendants in New York County (Manhattan) are released on recognizance.
What is an ACD in New York County (Manhattan)?
An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a NY disposition where charges are adjourned for 6-12 months and automatically dismissed if you have no new arrests. ACD records can be sealed.
Can I get my criminal record sealed in New York County (Manhattan)?
Yes, NY offers conditional sealing under CPL § 160.59 for qualifying convictions (up to 2) after 10 years. ACD results in automatic sealing. Marijuana offenses have expanded eligibility.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in New York County (Manhattan)?
A Class A misdemeanor carries up to 1 year jail. Class B carries up to 3 months. Violations carry up to 15 days. NY’s 2020 bail reform means most misdemeanor defendants are released without bail.
How long does a divorce take in New York County (Manhattan)?
An uncontested divorce takes 3-6 months from filing to judgment. A contested divorce takes 12-24+ months. NY requires a 6-month irretrievable breakdown for no-fault divorce.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.