DWI Lawyer Bronx — What Are Your Defense Options?
A DWI charge in the Bronx under NY VTL § 1192 is a serious misdemeanor with penalties including jail, fines, and license revocation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for your case. Our firm, founded in 1997, has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
New York DWI Law and Penalties
In New York, Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is defined by Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 1192. The statute makes it illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or while impaired by alcohol or drugs. A first offense is typically an unclassified misdemeanor. The law also includes provisions for Aggravated DWI (BAC 0.18% or higher) and Leandra’s Law, which elevates the charge to a felony if a child under 16 is in the vehicle.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bronx County Courts | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the DWI statute, refer to NY VTL § 1192 (official New York State Senate). For court procedures and locations, visit the Bronx County Criminal Court website.
Handling a DWI Case in Bronx County
Your case begins with an arraignment in Bronx Criminal Court. You will also face a separate administrative hearing with the New York DMV regarding your license. Prosecutors in the Bronx routinely seek standard penalties, but an experienced driving while intoxicated defense lawyer Bronx can challenge the evidence. The key is to act quickly to request a DMV hearing and preserve your right to drive.
- Arraignment: Appear in Bronx Criminal Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- DMV Hearing Request: You have 15 days from arrest to request a hearing to contest the automatic license suspension.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, bodycam footage, and breathalyzer maintenance records.
- Case Evaluation: We analyze the evidence for weaknesses, such as improper stop, faulty calibration, or medical conditions affecting test results.
- Negotiation or Trial: We pursue dismissal or reduction of charges through negotiation. If necessary, we prepare for a bench trial before a judge.
- Sentencing or Resolution: If a conviction occurs, we advocate for minimal penalties, such as a conditional discharge or a non-criminal violation.
Potential Penalties for a Bronx DWI
In the Bronx, a first-time DWI conviction carries penalties including up to 1 year in jail, fines from $500 to $1,000, and a mandatory license revocation for at least 6 months.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) | Traffic Infraction | Up to 15 days | $300 – $500 | 90-day suspension | Driver Responsibility Assessment ($250/yr for 3 years) |
| DWI (First Offense) | Unclassified Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $500 – $1,000 | Minimum 6-month revocation | Ignition Interlock, DRA, possible alcohol program |
| Aggravated DWI (BAC 0.18+) | Unclassified Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $1,000 – $2,500 | Minimum 1-year revocation | Enhanced fines, mandatory ignition interlock |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your DWI Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. We have handled thousands of traffic and criminal matters, developing a deep understanding of New York’s legal system. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your driving privileges and future.
Our Commitment to Your Case
While we do not have publicly listed case results specific to the Bronx, our firm-wide record across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC includes over 4,739 case results with a high rate of favorable outcomes. We apply this extensive experience to build a strong defense for your impaired driving charge lawyer Bronx needs. Every case receives individual attention from review to resolution.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Bronx DWI Defense Lawyers
Our New York location serves clients in Bronx County. We are accessible from major routes including the Major Deegan Expressway (I-87), Cross Bronx Expressway, and Hutchinson River Parkway. If you need a DWI lawyer Bronx near the Bronx County Hall of Justice or your local precinct, we can help.
We serve communities throughout the Bronx: Riverdale, Kingsbridge, Fordham, Belmont, Morris Park, Parkchester, Throgs Neck, City Island, and more.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: DWI in the Bronx
What is the difference between DWI and DWAI in New York?
Yes, there is a key difference. DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) is a traffic infraction for a BAC between 0.05% and 0.07%, or slight impairment. DWI is a misdemeanor for a BAC of 0.08% or higher, or obvious impairment. Penalties for DWI are significantly more severe.
Will I lose my license immediately after a DWI arrest?
It depends. Upon arrest, you will be given a temporary permit. Your license is suspended 15 days later unless you request a DMV hearing within that window. An attorney can request this hearing to fight the suspension, which is separate from your criminal case.
Can I plead a Bronx DWI down to a non-criminal violation?
It depends on the facts of your case, your driving history, and the strength of the evidence. In some first-offense scenarios, a skilled DWI lawyer Bronx may negotiate a reduction to DWAI or another non-criminal traffic offense, avoiding a criminal record.
What is Leandra’s Law?
Leandra’s Law makes it a Class E felony to drive drunk with a passenger under the age of 16. This “Child Passenger Protection” law mandates ignition interlock installation and carries penalties of up to 4 years in state prison, even for a first-time offender.
How long does a DWI case take in the Bronx?
A DWI case can take from 3 to 12 months to resolve, depending on factors like court scheduling, evidence review, and whether the case is settled through negotiation or goes to trial. The DMV administrative process runs concurrently but on a different timeline.
More Legal Information
If you are facing a DWI charge, it is important to act quickly. For more information on New York traffic defense, visit our New York DUI/DWI Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Westchester County and with related matters such as Bronx criminal defense.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current advice regarding your situation.