Facing a DWI charge in New York County (Manhattan) 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 with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. A DWI Lawyer Manhattan can help you understand your defense options.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | NY VTL § 1192 (official New York State Senate)
New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 1192 defines DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) as operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) applies to BAC between 0.05% and 0.07%. A DWI Lawyer Manhattan from SRIS, P.C. can explain how these laws apply to your case. Leandra’s Law (VTL § 1192.2-a) makes it a Class E felony to drive drunk with a child under 15 in the vehicle.
New York County Supreme Court (official court website)
- Arraignment: You appear before a judge within 24 hours of arrest. Charges are formally read, and bail is set.
- DMV Refusal Hearing: If you refused a chemical test, you have 15 days to request a hearing to contest the automatic license suspension.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the prosecution’s evidence, including police reports, breathalyzer results, and dashcam footage.
- Plea Negotiations: Your attorney negotiates with the District Attorney’s office for a reduced charge or alternative sentencing.
- Trial or Sentencing: If no plea is reached, the case proceeds to trial. If convicted, sentencing includes fines, jail time, and license suspension.
In New York County (Manhattan), a first-time DWI carries up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $1,000, and a 6-month license revocation.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DWAI (BAC 0.05-0.07) | Violation | Up to 15 days | $300-$500 | None | None |
| DWI (BAC 0.08+) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $500-$1,000 | 6-month revocation | DRA: $250/year for 3 years; ignition interlock |
| Aggravated DWI (BAC 0.18+) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $1,000-$2,500 | 1-year revocation | Ignition interlock required; alcohol evaluation |
| Leandra’s Law (child under 15) | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | 6-month revocation | Ignition interlock required; child endangerment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. An impaired driving charge lawyer Manhattan from our firm can provide the representation you need.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New York Location
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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), New York?
It depends. 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. Available for many first offenses.
Can I get my criminal record sealed in New York County (Manhattan), New York?
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), New York?
It depends. Class A misdemeanor: up to 1 year jail. Class B: up to 3 months. Violations: up to 15 days. Cases heard at New York County Supreme Court (60 Centre Street).
How long does a divorce take in New York County (Manhattan), New York?
It depends. Uncontested divorce: 3-6 months from filing to judgment; contested: 12-24+ months. NY requires 6-month irretrievable breakdown for no-fault. Filing fee: $335 (index number) + $95 RJI.
For more information, visit our New York DUI/DWI Lawyer hub page. Also see our Albany County DUI/DWI Lawyer page and New York County (Manhattan) Business Lawyer page. Learn more about our team on our attorney profile page and our New York location page.
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.