Bronx DWI Lawyer — What Are Your Best Defense Options?
A DWI charge in the Bronx under NY VTL § 1192 carries up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine for a first offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ firm-wide case results. A DWI Lawyer Bronx from our firm can build your defense.
New York DWI Laws and Penalties
New York defines driving while intoxicated (DWI) under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192. A person is guilty of DWI when operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or more (per se DWI under § 1192.2) or when their ability to operate is impaired by alcohol (common law DWI under § 1192.3). A separate charge, Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI), applies for BACs between 0.05% and 0.07%.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Criminal Court | NY VTL § 1192 (official New York State Senate)
Official Resources for DWI Cases in the Bronx
How a DWI Case Proceeds in the Bronx
Your case begins with an arraignment in Bronx Criminal Court, typically within 24 hours of arrest. The court sets bail or releases you on your own recognizance. A separate DMV refusal hearing must be requested within 15 days of your arrest to avoid an automatic license suspension.
- Arraignment: You appear in court, hear the charges, and enter a plea. Bail conditions are set.
- DMV Hearing: Request a refusal hearing within 15 days to challenge any license suspension.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the police report, breathalyzer results, and any video evidence.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer files motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Your attorney negotiates with the prosecutor or prepares for trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes fines, jail time, and license conditions.
In the Bronx, a DWI first offense carries up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DWAI (First) | Traffic Infraction | Up to 15 days | $300 – $500 | 90-day suspension | Driver Responsibility Assessment ($250/yr for 3 yrs) |
| DWI (First) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $500 – $1,000 | 6-month revocation | Ignition interlock device; DRA |
| Aggravated DWI (BAC 0.18%+) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $1,000 – $2,500 | 1-year revocation | Enhanced fines; mandatory interlock |
| Leandra’s Law (Child < 15) | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | 1-year revocation | Mandatory interlock; possible prison |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your DWI Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm has secured 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. We provide strong defense strategies for clients facing serious charges.
Our Track Record in DWI Defense
While specific case results for the Bronx are not available, our firm-wide record demonstrates our commitment to strong advocacy. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across all practice areas.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
DWI Lawyer Near the Bronx
Our New York location serves clients at Bronx County courts, accessible via I-87, I-278, and the Major Deegan Expressway. We are a DWI Lawyer Bronx near the Bronx County Courthouse.
We serve clients throughout the Bronx, including neighborhoods like Riverdale, Fordham, Pelham Bay, and Mott Haven.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About DWI in the Bronx
Can I refuse a breathalyzer test in the Bronx?
Yes, you can refuse a chemical test in New York.
Yes, you can refuse a breathalyzer test in New York. However, refusal results in an automatic one-year license suspension under New York’s implied consent law. This is a civil penalty separate from any criminal charges. A DWI Lawyer Bronx can advise you on the specific consequences of refusal in your case.
What is the difference between DWI and DWAI in New York?
DWAI is a lesser charge than DWI.
It depends. DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) requires a BAC of 0.08% or higher, while DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) applies to BACs between 0.05% and 0.07%. DWAI is a traffic infraction with lighter penalties, while DWI is a misdemeanor. A driving while intoxicated defense lawyer Bronx can explain the differences for your situation.
Will I go to jail for a first DWI in the Bronx?
It depends on the specific facts of your case.
It depends. A first-time DWI offense in New York carries a maximum of one year in jail, but many first-time offenders receive probation, fines, and a conditional license instead of jail time. Factors like your BAC level, whether there was an accident, and your criminal history will influence the outcome. An impaired driving charge lawyer Bronx can help negotiate for a favorable result.
How long does a DWI stay on my record in New York?
A DWI conviction stays on your driving record for 10 years.
A DWI conviction remains on your New York driving record for 10 years from the date of conviction. It can also appear on your criminal record permanently, affecting employment, housing, and professional licensing. A DWI Lawyer Bronx can discuss options for reducing or dismissing the charge.
What is Leandra’s Law in New York?
Leandra’s Law makes DWI with a child under 15 a felony.
Leandra’s Law (NY VTL § 1192.2-a) makes it a Class E felony to drive while intoxicated with a child under 15 years old in the vehicle. Penalties include up to 4 years in prison, a $5,000 fine, and a mandatory ignition interlock device. This charge requires immediate legal representation from a DWI Lawyer Bronx.
Last verified: 2026-04. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.