What happens at a DUI arraignment in New York County

A DUI arraignment in New York County (Manhattan) is the first formal court appearance after an arrest for driving while intoxicated. The proceeding takes place at the NYC Criminal Court on Centre Street, where the court formally reads the charges against you and asks how you plead. At this hearing, the judge also addresses bail or release conditions and sets the next court date. Because a DUI charge—whether a misdemeanor or felony under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192—carries potential jail time, license consequences, and a permanent criminal record, the arraignment is not simply a procedural formality. What happens in that courtroom can affect the entire direction of your case.
For guidance on navigating a New York County DUI arraignment, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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The DUI Arraignment Process in New York County

When you appear at the New York County Criminal Court for a DUI arraignment, the proceeding typically unfolds in a predictable sequence. The clerk calls your case, and the judge asks you to confirm your name and address. The court then formally advises you of the charge—usually a violation of VTL § 1192(1) (driving while ability impaired by alcohol), § 1192(2) (per‑se DWI of .08 percent or higher), or § 1192(3) (common‑law intoxication). If the arrest involved an aggravated factor—a blood‑alcohol concentration of .18 or above, a child passenger, or a prior DWI conviction—the complaint may also note the elevated classification.

After the charge is read, the judge asks you to enter a plea: not guilty, guilty, or, with the court’s permission, no contest. An experienced attorney can assess whether the complaint is legally sufficient, negotiate a release on your own recognizance rather than bail, and raise any immediate issues—for example, a request for a supporting deposition or discovery. At the conclusion, the court announces the next appearance date, often for a pretrial conference or motions.

New York County DUI cases move through the Manhattan Criminal Court system under the 1st Judicial District. The court’s procedural rules and local practice can differ from those in other boroughs. Understanding how the Manhattan arraignment part operates is essential to preserving your rights and building a sound defense from day one.

New York County Supreme Court Court hours: Mon‑Fri 9:00 AM‑5:00 PM. Counsel appearing on traffic matters should plan filings accordingly.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle DUI Cases

At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to DUI defense. The firm’s approach to DUI arraignment starts with thorough preparation before you walk into the courtroom: reviewing the arrest report, the breath‑ or blood‑test documentation, the officer’s observations, and any video evidence. At the arraignment, counsel can challenge procedural defects in the complaint, argue for your release without bail, and secure an early opportunity to examine the strength of the prosecution’s case.

After the arraignment, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys develop a defense strategy tailored to the specific facts of your case. Whether that means filing motions to suppress evidence, negotiating with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for a reduced charge, or preparing for trial, the firm’s goal is to work toward a favorable resolution. Because DUI charges can have long‑term effects on your driver’s license, employment, and immigration status, the firm treats each matter with the seriousness it deserves.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, Mr. Sris understands both sides of the courtroom and brings that perspective to every DUI defense matter.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys add further depth to the practice. They are experienced trial lawyers who appear in Manhattan courts and throughout New York. Together, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys offer a multi‑state perspective grounded in decades of courtroom work. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. To schedule a consultation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a DUI arraignment in New York County?

A DUI arraignment in New York County is the initial court appearance where the judge informs you of the DWI/DUI charges against you and you enter a plea. The proceeding occurs at the Manhattan Criminal Court. During the arraignment, the court also determines whether you will be released on your own recognizance, set bail, or impose other release conditions. The judge schedules the next court date. Because the arraignment sets the procedural tone for the entire case, having an attorney present to address the complaint and argue for favorable release terms is critical. For help with your arraignment, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Do I need an attorney at my DUI arraignment in New York County?

You are not required to have an attorney at the arraignment, but appearing without one is strongly discouraged. The court will read the charges and ask for a plea, and any statement you make can be used against you later. An attorney can evaluate whether the complaint is legally sufficient, seek your release without bail, and begin challenging the evidence. In New York County, where DUI cases are prosecuted vigorously, the early presence of an experienced lawyer can substantially affect the course of the case. To discuss your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

What plea should I enter at a DUI arraignment?

Unless your attorney has negotiated a resolution in advance, a plea of not guilty is typically entered at the arraignment. Entering a not‑guilty plea preserves all of your rights, allows discovery to proceed, and gives your attorney time to investigate the case. Pleading guilty at the arraignment waives your right to challenge the evidence and immediately results in a conviction, which can have serious consequences for your driving privileges, insurance, and criminal record. The decision should be made only after consulting an experienced attorney who understands New York County DUI practice. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys at (888) 437‑7747.

How does bail work at a DUI arraignment in New York County?

At the arraignment, the judge decides whether to release you on your own recognizance, set bail, or impose non‑monetary release conditions. For a first‑offense DUI without aggravating factors, release on your own recognizance is common in New York County. However, if the charge involves an accident with injury, a high blood‑alcohol concentration, or a prior DWI conviction, the court may set cash bail or require supervision. An attorney can present arguments emphasizing your ties to the community, employment, and lack of flight risk. New York’s bail reform laws give judges discretion based on the specific facts of the case.

What should I bring to my DUI arraignment?

Bring a valid form of identification, any paperwork you received at the time of your arrest, and, if you have retained an attorney, your attorney’s contact information. You should also bring documentation that supports a request for release without bail—such as proof of employment, a lease or mortgage, and character references. Arrive early, dress appropriately, and avoid discussing the facts of your case with anyone other than your attorney. The court will not provide an attorney for the arraignment unless you apply for assigned counsel and qualify financially. For guidance on preparing for your arraignment, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Can I be convicted at the arraignment?

You can only be convicted at the arraignment if you voluntarily plead guilty. There is no trial or presentation of evidence at the arraignment stage. The purpose of the arraignment is to inform you of the charges and set the case schedule. Pleading guilty at the arraignment results in an immediate conviction and sentence. Most defendants, upon advice of counsel, enter a not‑guilty plea and proceed to the pretrial phase, where motions to dismiss or suppress evidence can be filed. Any decision regarding a plea should be made only after a full review of the prosecution’s evidence.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

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