DUI Defense

DWI Attorney in Manhattan

Protect Your Future With Trusted DWI Lawyer & Defense in Manhattan

If you have been arrested for DWI in Manhattan, you are facing more than a traffic offense. A Driving While Intoxicated charge in New York is a criminal allegation that can affect your license, your career, your professional reputation, and even your freedom.

At Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein, our Manhattan DWI attorneys provide immediate, strategic defense grounded in more than 100 years of combined legal experience. As former New York prosecutors, we understand how the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office builds DWI cases and how to challenge them effectively.

Our firm has earned statewide and national recognition for excellence in criminal defense, including:

Selected multiple times to Super Lawyers in criminal defense and related areas
Ranked in U.S. News—Best Law Firms (including 2016, 2018, 2020 editions)
Thomas Kenniff: recognized in Best Lawyers in America and by U.S. News & World Report
Top 100 Trial Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers
Steven Raiser holds the Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent® rating, including recognition in the Judicial Edition and as a Client Champion
Recipient of the Award for Excellence in Public Service from the NYSBA
Consistently strong client feedback, with ratings of 4.9 stars or higher

When your future is at stake, you need more than basic representation — you need recognized, strategic, and responsive defense.

If you are facing DWI charges in New York, secure your defense immediately. Contact a DWI attorney in Manhattan. Call (888) 646-0025 or reach out online anytime to schedule a free consultation.

Elements of a Manhattan DWI Charge

A criminal DWI charge in New York is proven by the prosecution in two primary ways, both of which we aggressively challenge:

1. The Per Se Violation (VTL 1192-2)

This requires proof that the defendant operated a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.

Our challenge: The conviction rests entirely on the BAC result. As your Manhattan DWI defense lawyer, we challenge the admissibility of the BAC evidence by scrutinizing the technical data:
- Breathalyzer protocols: Did the NYPD officer adhere to the mandatory 15-minute observation period? Were the machine's calibration logs current?
- Rising BAC defense: We use pharmacokinetic analysis to show that while the BAC may have been 0.08% at the police station, it was still rising and was below the legal limit at the time of driving.

2. The Impaired Condition Violation (VTL 1192-3)

This requires proof that the defendant was in an “intoxicated condition,” meaning impairment to a degree that prevented them from operating the vehicle as a reasonably prudent driver.

Our challenge: This relies on subjective evidence. We address the credibility of the officer’s observations by challenging the field sobriety tests (FSTs):
- Improper administration: Were the FSTs administered according to NHTSA standards? Were there environmental factors (uneven pavement, poor weather, incorrect instructions) that compromised the results?
- Medical/physical factors: We introduce information about physical conditions (age, injury, weight) that may explain poor performance on balance and coordination tests, independent of intoxication.

The Consequences: Penalties and Administrative Action

A conviction for DWI in Manhattan triggers severe criminal penalties and mandatory administrative actions by the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Criminal and Administrative Penalties

Misdemeanor DWI (first offense): Up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $1,000, and license revocation for at least six months.
Aggravated DWI (BAC 0.18%, first offense): Up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $2,500, and license revocation for at least one year.
Felony DWI (second offense within 10 years): Up to 4 years in state prison and mandatory, lengthy license revocation.
Mandatory IID: All DWI convictions require the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for at least 12 months.

Beyond these core penalties, a conviction can also affect professional licenses, immigration status, school enrollment, and certain housing opportunities in New York City. Judges in Manhattan Criminal Court may impose alcohol treatment, victim impact panels, or strict probation conditions that affect your daily schedule and ability to travel. We help you understand both the direct sentence and the collateral consequences so you can make informed decisions about whether to negotiate, go to trial, or pursue alternative resolutions that may protect your long-term goals.

DMV Refusal Hearing

A refusal to submit to a chemical test triggers a separate civil penalty (fine) and a mandatory one-year license revocation that is imposed by the DMV, regardless of the criminal outcome. We represent you at this critical administrative hearing to address the revocation.

At the refusal hearing, the administrative law judge looks at issues such as whether the officer had reasonable grounds to stop you, whether you were properly warned about the consequences of refusing, and whether your actions were actually a refusal under New York law. These hearings are typically held at New York City DMV offices and move quickly, often before your first court date in Manhattan. By preparing testimony, gathering documents, and addressing the arresting officer’s statements, we work to preserve your driving privileges while your criminal case is still pending.

How DWI Charges Work in Manhattan

In Manhattan, law enforcement and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office handle these cases with diligence, and even first-time offenders could face severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, probation, and sometimes jail time.

The legal process moves quickly, making timely and informed action critical for your defense.

State and local court variations: Your case may be heard in Manhattan Criminal Court or another court, depending on specific details of the charge.
Legal process: From arrest and arraignment to pretrial conferences and possible hearings, every phase calls for a knowledgeable advocate familiar with Manhattan’s criminal procedures.
Potential penalties: Convictions may result in fines, mandatory education programs, ignition interlock devices, community service, and jail.

Our team will explain each step so you understand your options and stay informed throughout your case. Attorneys with backgrounds as both prosecutors and defenders provide clear insight into local legal tactics, which helps us develop practical strategies for every step of your defense.

Many DWI arrests in Manhattan begin with a stop on major routes like the FDR Drive, West Side Highway, or on local streets near nightlife areas, and the location of the stop can influence which NYPD units respond and how evidence is documented. After arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court, your case may be assigned to a particular part that focuses on driving offenses, with set calendars and deadlines for motions and discovery. We guide you through these local practices, help you prepare for each court appearance, and coordinate your work and family obligations around the schedule so the process feels more manageable and less overwhelming.

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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 Strategy
We 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 Prosecutors
Our 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.

Why Choose Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein for DWI Representation

Our firm stands out for unwavering dedication to every client and a results-driven philosophy. We intentionally limit our caseload so you always receive individualized attention and direct access to your attorney, day or night.

With more than a century of combined experience and attorneys who have served as former Manhattan prosecutors, we offer a distinctive perspective on how DWI cases are handled in the area.

We assist a diverse community with services in English, Spanish, and Russian, and we provide flexible payment plans to reduce your stress during a difficult time.

Team of former prosecutors: Gain an advantage from lawyers who understand both sides of the courtroom process in Manhattan.
Dedicated client service: Fewer clients mean more time and focus on your case.
24/7 attorney access: Receive guidance and updates whenever you need them.
Diverse community support: Communication available in multiple languages for your convenience.
Flexible payment options: Solutions for clients needing financial flexibility during stressful times.

Protect your career, your license, and your freedom from a DWI conviction. Choose Raiser, Kenniff, & Lonstein.

We offer free consultations and 24/7 availability. Secure your DWI attorney in Manhattan now. Contact (888) 646-0025 or fill out our contact form for immediate assistance.

FAQs

What Are the Possible Penalties for a DWI in Manhattan?

Penalties for DWI charges in Manhattan can include fines, license suspension, community service, and, in some cases, jail time. Factors like prior convictions and the specific details of your case may affect the outcome.

How Soon After a DWI Arrest Should I Contact a Lawyer?

Contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Early legal advice can help you avoid mistakes, protect your rights, and prepare for upcoming court appearances.

Will I Have to Appear in Court for My DWI Case?

Most DWI charges require at least one court appearance in Manhattan. Your legal team can guide you on what to expect and how to prepare for each step.

Can I Lose My Driver’s License After a DWI Charge?

A driver’s license can be suspended if you are convicted of a DWI offense in New York. The duration of the suspension depends on the charges and your record.

Do First-Time Offenders Face Jail Time in Manhattan DWI Cases?

First-time offenders may face jail, though other penalties such as fines, probation, and education programs are possible depending on the circumstances of the case.

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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.

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Our Client-Centered DWI Defense Approach in Manhattan

Why Choose Us For Your DWI Defense In Manhattan

We begin every case with a thorough review and careful listening. Managing only a select number of cases allows us to focus on your individual circumstances. Our knowledge of Manhattan’s district attorneys and judges helps us navigate each stage, tailoring our planning to the nuances of local procedures and expectations. Active-duty military members and veterans also find supportive guidance with our team, reflecting our commitment to the broader community.

Detailed case assessment: Every situation receives a careful, individualized review.
Strategic planning: We draw on experience in Manhattan courts and statewide law to map out your best defense path.
Clear communication: Clients receive regular updates and can reach their attorney directly for answers.
Cultural sensitivity: We offer services in multiple languages and respect diverse backgrounds and needs.

Effective legal representation requires focus on your priorities, whether that involves your job, school, or caring for your family. Our process includes scheduling flexibility, practical solutions for meeting court-mandated deadlines, and careful attention to obligations unique to New York City. We want you to feel confident every step of the way as you move through Manhattan’s court system with a DWI lawyer by your side.

Step-by-Step Guide to Your DWI Defense Journey

Initial consultation: Call us for a confidential conversation about your situation, goals, and concerns.
Thorough review: We examine police reports, breathalyzer results, and every aspect of your arrest and charges.
Personalized guidance: You receive a clear overview of what to expect and which steps to take next.
Supportive representation: We stand with you through every court date and interaction, answering your questions and addressing challenges along the way.
Ongoing updates: From the initial arraignment to case resolution, you receive continuous information about developments and available choices.

With Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein, you have a dedicated DWI lawyer in Manhattan advocating for you at every stage. We offer clear answers and responsive support from start to finish, so you always know where your case stands.

Common Types of DWI and Related Charges in Manhattan

Not every arrest in Manhattan is charged the same way, and understanding the specific offense on your ticket helps you anticipate what is at stake. Some cases involve standard DWI based on a 0.08% BAC, while others involve driving while ability impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination under the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law. Each charge carries different potential penalties, different negotiation possibilities, and different long-term effects on your license and record in New York.

For example, young drivers may face zero-tolerance administrative actions through the DMV, while commercial drivers arrested on routes that feed into the Holland Tunnel or Brooklyn Bridge can face serious consequences at much lower BAC thresholds. There are also situations involving drugs or prescription medication that are prosecuted as driving while ability is impaired by drugs, which often require scientific evidence and expert testimony in Manhattan Criminal Court. We help you understand the exact statute you are charged under, whether there are companion charges such as reckless driving or leaving the scene, and how those details can shape your defense strategy.

Contact Us Today for Reliable DWI Defense in Manhattan

The next step is straightforward — reach out to Raiser, Kenniff & Lonstein for a confidential consultation with a team that puts your future first. When you contact us, you gain direct access to attorneys with valuable insight into Manhattan courtrooms and a genuine dedication to personalized service. Talk to us in your preferred language and receive answers when you need them, day or night. We are here to listen, advise, and help you move forward.

This is what you can expect when you contact our office for help with a DWI case in Manhattan:

Prompt response from an attorney: Your call or message is returned quickly by a lawyer who listens carefully to what happened and answers your immediate questions.
Review of key documents: We ask you to share tickets, paperwork from Manhattan Criminal Court, and any notices from the New York DMV so we can identify urgent deadlines.
Discussion of next steps: We walk you through upcoming court dates, what to bring, and how to prepare so you are not walking into arraignment or a hearing uncertain.
Planning around your life: We talk about your work, family, and school commitments and consider them as we map out a defense plan and any appearances in lower Manhattan courts.

Call (888) 646-0025 now to connect with a knowledgeable DWI attorney in Manhattan who puts your needs first.

Hyper-Local DWI Experience

While we represent clients throughout New York City, many individuals charged in Manhattan also face DWI or traffic matters in upstate courts, particularly Kingston and Ulster County.

Attorney Alex Lonstein brings deep familiarity with Kingston and surrounding upstate New York courts.

The Lonstein family has practiced law in Ellenville and the region for nearly 100 years, spanning four generations. That longstanding presence provides valuable local insight into how courts in Kingston and Ulster County operate.

When reviewing a DWI ticket issued in Kingston, Attorney Lonstein can often:

Identify the specific court from the ticket details
Recognize typical scheduling patterns
Understand how certain courts structure DWI calendars
Explain procedural expectations at arraignment
Provide practical guidance based on experience in those courtrooms

This is not about guaranteeing outcomes. It is about knowing what to expect, understanding court culture, and preparing clients strategically rather than reactively.

Just as importantly, Attorney Lonstein answers his own calls and texts from potential clients. In DWI and traffic matters, early responsiveness often shapes the defense. Clear, immediate communication builds trust and helps prevent costly mistakes in the critical first days after an arrest.

Call today to schedule a consultation.

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