New York Multiple DWI Lawyers
Available 24/7 to Help With Multiple DWI and DWAI Charges
Have you been charged with multiple DWI offenses in New York? You do not have to face this challenging time alone. Our team of experienced multiple DWI defense lawyers is ready to stand by your side, available around the clock to help ensure your rights are protected.
At Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein, our team includes former prosecutors, trial-tested criminal defense attorneys, and lawyers with deep familiarity with Upstate New York courts, including Kingston, Ulster County, and surrounding jurisdictions. We have sat on the other side of the table, and we know how to use that insight to anticipate the prosecution's approach, challenge their case, and defend your rights effectively.
Call (888) 646-0025 or contact our New York multiple-DWI lawyer online to set up a free, no-risk consultation! We offer DUI defense services in English, Spanish, and Russian.
How New York Treats Multiple DWI Offenses
New York has some of the strictest DUI and DWI laws in the country. Penalties escalate sharply with each additional conviction, especially when prior offenses occurred within the last 10 years.
Judges and prosecutors across New York City, Long Island, and Upstate counties tend to review a driver’s entire history, including any prior DWAI or out-of-state DWI, before deciding how to handle a new arrest. That means a person might be treated as a repeat offender even if the prior case was resolved years ago or under a slightly different statute. Working with a multiple DUI/DWI attorney in New York who understands how these histories are interpreted can help you anticipate potential exposure and plan realistically.
Second DWI Offense (Within 10 Years)
A second DWI conviction within 10 years is charged as a Class E felony.
Potential penalties include:
- Up to 4 years in state prison
- $1,000–$5,000 in fines
- Minimum 1-year license revocation
- Mandatory ignition interlock device (IID)
- Alcohol evaluation and treatment programs
- Probation or incarceration depending on the circumstances
Third DWI Offense (Within 10 Years)
A third DWI within 10 years is typically charged as a Class D felony, carrying even harsher consequences.
Potential penalties include:
- Up to 7 years in state prison
- $2,000–$10,000 in fines
- Minimum 18-month license revocation
- IID installation on any vehicle operated
- Extended probation or incarceration
Aggravated DWI and High BAC Cases
An aggravated DWI involves a BAC of .18% or higher. When combined with a prior conviction, aggravated DWI is treated with the same seriousness as other felony offenses.
- Minimum 18-month license revocation
- Higher fines and greater sentencing exposure
- Mandatory IID and monitoring
License Revocation and Lifetime Driving Consequences
License consequences often become the most disruptive aspect of multiple DWI cases.
- Multiple convictions within 25 years may require a 5-year waiting period before relicensing
- Five or more alcohol-related driving convictions can result in permanent license revocation
- Conditional or hardship licenses are often unavailable for repeat offenders
These penalties can affect employment, family responsibilities, and daily life long after the criminal case ends.
Chemical Test Refusals and Prior Convictions
Refusing a breath, blood, or urine test carries its own penalties. If you refuse chemical testing with a prior DWI within 10 years, the refusal can lead to felony-level consequences, extended license revocation, and additional fines, separate from the underlying DWI charge.
Why We're the Right Choice
Attentive Service. Strategic Defense.
Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein is here to help you get the results you need with a team you can trust.
-
Personalized Legal StrategyWe don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every case is handled with a custom legal approach tailored to your goals, your circumstances, and your future.
-
Risk-Free Consultation
We offer a risk-free evaluation of your case and are here to help you understand your legal options. We are available 24/7, day or night, to help you.
-
Top-Rated Team
Nationally recognized for results. Our attorneys have been ranked among the best in the U.S., Trusted for their strategy, skill, and relentless client advocacy
-
Former ProsecutorsOur founding partners are both former New York prosecutors who bring unique experience and insights to every case, especially when it comes to going to trial.
.2512011325473.png "MARTINDALE-HUBBELL® 2025 Client Champion Gold")
Long-Term Consequences of Multiple DWI Convictions
Beyond jail time and fines, repeat DWI convictions can affect nearly every area of life:
- Permanent criminal record
- Increased insurance rates or cancellation
- Employment and professional licensing issues
- Difficulty securing housing or loans
- Mandatory alcohol education, treatment, and monitoring
Understanding these risks underscores why experienced legal representation matters.
Strategies for Navigating Multiple DWI Charges
Facing multiple DUI/DWI charges can be overwhelming, but having a solid strategy can significantly affect the outcome of your case. At Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein, our experienced attorneys create tailored defense plans that consider the unique circumstances of each client.
Here are some effective strategies we employ:
- Thorough case review: We carefully analyze all aspects of your case, including police reports, breathalyzer results, and witness statements, to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence.
- Plea bargaining: In many cases, negotiating a plea deal can lead to reduced charges or penalties. Our team will advocate for the most favorable resolution available in your situation.
- Challenging evidence: We look for opportunities to challenge the validity of the evidence against you, including the legality of the traffic stop and the accuracy of sobriety tests.
- Substance abuse programs: Showing a commitment to rehabilitation can influence how the court views your case. We can assist you in enrolling in programs that may support a more lenient sentence.
- Building a strong support network: We encourage clients to work with support groups and counseling, which can help reduce the impact of multiple DUI/DWI charges on personal and professional life.
With the right defense strategy, you can navigate the complexities of multiple DUI/DWI charges more effectively. Our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way, helping you protect your rights and have your voice heard.
Exceptional Defense for Multiple DWIs From Former Prosecutors
If you are facing a DWI charge in New York, you should speak with an attorney at Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein as soon as possible. We know the intricacies of New York DWI law and are skilled in navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system. Having former prosecutors on our team gives us an edge. We know the playbook, the strategies the prosecution will use, and how to respond to them effectively. This insight can often be a key part of building a strong defense.
What To Expect After a Second or Third DWI Arrest in New York
After a repeat DWI arrest in New York, most people are brought before a local criminal court or a city court for arraignment, often within 24 hours. At that first appearance, the judge will address bail or release conditions, issue orders about driving, and enter an initial plea on your behalf. The prosecutor may also announce whether they are treating the case as a felony or misdemeanor based on your prior record, which can change how the case moves through the system.
In addition to the criminal court case, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles may schedule an administrative hearing to decide whether your license should be suspended or revoked before the case is resolved. This is especially common when there is an alleged chemical test refusal or when the new arrest follows a prior DWI within 10 years. Keeping track of both the court dates and DMV deadlines can be difficult, which is why many people choose to have a multiple DUI/DWI lawyer that New York residents work with handle calendars and appear with them.
As the case progresses, there are usually several pretrial conferences where your attorney can negotiate with the district attorney’s office, review discovery, and file motions challenging the stop, arrest, or testing procedures. In counties such as Ulster, Nassau, and Suffolk, these conferences often take place on busy calendars where decisions are made quickly, so preparation before each date is critical. Throughout this period, you may be required to complete an alcohol evaluation, begin treatment, or install an ignition interlock device as conditions of release or in anticipation of a potential plea.
To get started with a no-cost, no-obligation case review, contact our New York multiple DWI lawyers at (888) 646-0025 today!
a Reputation For excellence
Read Our Client Testimonials
-
They treated me wonderfully and helped me out of a bind. I feel that this firm really cares.- Michelle A.
How Alex Lonstein Helps Clients Charged With DWI in Kingston and Ulster County
For individuals facing multiple DWI charges in Kingston, Ulster County, and surrounding Upstate courts, attorney Alex Lonstein offers a level of local insight and responsiveness that clients consistently value.
The Lonstein family has practiced law in Ellenville and the surrounding region for nearly 100 years, spanning four generations. This long-standing presence gives Alex deep familiarity with:
- Local DWI courts and procedures
- Common scheduling practices and arraignment processes
- What defendants can typically expect after receiving a ticket or felony complaint
In many cases, based on the court listed on the ticket and the appearance date, Alex can help clients understand the following:
- Which judge or court will hear the case
- How the early stages of the case usually unfold locally
- What deadlines and requirements may come first
Equally important, Alex is known for direct accessibility. He often answers his own calls and responds to texts from potential clients, helping people get answers quickly during stressful moments. That responsiveness, combined with local knowledge, often helps clients feel more prepared and informed as their case moves forward.
Defense Strategies for Multiple DWI Charges
Every multiple DWI case is different. Our attorneys take a detailed, evidence-driven approach, which may include:
- Challenging the legality of the traffic stop or arrest
- Reviewing BAC testing accuracy and calibration
- Analyzing field sobriety test administration
- Identifying procedural or constitutional violations
- Evaluating rising BAC or medical explanations
- Negotiating plea options or alternative resolutions when appropriate
Our goal is always to build a defense strategy tailored to the facts of your case.
A Criminal Defense Firm Recognized Across New York
Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein has earned statewide recognition for criminal defense work:
- Selected multiple times to Super Lawyers in criminal defense and related areas
- Steven Raiser holds a Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent® Rating, including recognition in the Judicial Edition and as a Client Champion
- Thomas Kenniff included in Best Lawyers in America
- Recognized by U.S. News & World Report and ranked in U.S. News – Best Law Firms (2016, 2018, 2020)
- Selected to Top 100 Trial Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers
- Recipient of the Award for Excellence in Public Service from the New York State Bar Association
- Consistently strong client feedback, including 4.9-star or higher ratings, where supported on site
Speak With a New York Multiple DWI Lawyer Today
If you are facing a second or third DWI in New York, the stakes are high, but you do not have to face the process alone. Having a lawyer who understands statewide DWI law, local court practices, and the real-world consequences of repeat offenses can make a meaningful difference in how prepared you feel.
Call (888) 646-0025 or contact Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein online to schedule your free, confidential consultation today. We are available 24/7 to help you understand your options and next steps.