Felony DWI Lawyer Broome County — Defending Serious Criminal Charges
A felony DWI in Broome County, NY, is a serious criminal charge under NY VTL § 1192.2-a (Leandra’s Law) or for repeat offenses, carrying potential state prison time. As a felony DWI lawyer Broome County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for these high-stakes cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Broome County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
New York Felony DWI Laws & Penalties
In New York, a DWI charge becomes a felony under specific circumstances. The most common is a prior DWI conviction within the past ten years, elevating a new charge to a Class E felony under Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 1193. More severely, Leandra’s Law (VTL § 1192.2-a) makes driving while intoxicated with a child passenger under the age of 16 an automatic Class E felony, even for a first-time offender. A conviction for Aggravated DWI (BAC 0.18% or higher) can also be charged as a felony if you have a prior offense. These are not simple traffic tickets; they are indictable crimes prosecuted in Broome County Supreme Court.
You need a felony charge defense lawyer Broome County because the consequences are severe. A Class E felony DWI conviction can result in a state prison sentence of up to 4 years, fines up to $5,000, and a license revocation for at least one year. The court will also mandate the installation of an ignition interlock device on any vehicle you own or operate for a minimum of one year after license restoration.
- Arraignment & Bail: You will be arraigned in local criminal court. Your lawyer can argue for reasonable bail or release on your own recognizance.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The case is presented to a grand jury. Your attorney may present exculpatory evidence or negotiate a plea before indictment.
- Supreme Court Proceedings: If indicted, the case moves to Broome County Supreme Court for pre-trial motions, hearings, and potential trial.
- DMV Action: A separate DMV refusal hearing or license revocation proceeding will occur. Your lawyer must handle both the criminal and administrative cases.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most favorable sentence, which may include alternatives to incarceration.
Penalties for Felony DWI in Broome County
In Broome County, a felony DWI conviction carries state prison time, significant fines, and a lengthy license revocation, making immediate defense by a felony DWI lawyer Broome County essential.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DWI with Child (Leandra’s Law – 1st) | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years | $1,000 – $5,000 | Revoked ≥1 year | Ignition interlock, felony record |
| DWI 2nd in 10 Years | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years | $1,000 – $5,000 | Revoked ≥1 year | Ignition interlock, felony record |
| DWI 3rd in 10 Years | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | $2,000 – $10,000 | Revoked ≥1 year | Ignition interlock, permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Felony DWI Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, we have the depth to handle complex felony cases. We understand that a felony DWI is a life-altering serious criminal charge lawyer Broome County residents trust us to defend. Our approach is direct: we analyze the traffic stop, challenge the chemical test evidence, and fight to protect your future.
Our Approach to Felony DWI Cases
Our defense strategy begins the moment you contact us. We immediately work to secure your release and preserve all evidence. For a felony DWI, we scrutinize the legality of the traffic stop, the administration of field sobriety tests, and the calibration and maintenance records of the breathalyzer or blood testing equipment. We also explore substantive defenses, such as challenging the causation element in Leandra’s Law cases or arguing against the validity of a prior conviction. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or at trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Felony DWI Defense in Broome County, NY
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New York location serves clients throughout Broome County, including Binghamton, Endicott, Johnson City, and Vestal. We are accessible via I-81, I-86, and the NYS Thruway.
Felony DWI Lawyer Broome County FAQ
What makes a DWI a felony in New York?
Yes. A DWI becomes a felony in NY if it’s a second offense within 10 years, if you drive with a BAC of 0.18% or higher with a prior offense, or under Leandra’s Law for driving drunk with a child under 16 in the car.
Can a felony DWI be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the facts of your case and your prior record. A felony charge defense lawyer Broome County can negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction, especially if there are weaknesses in the evidence or mitigating circumstances. An early and strategic defense is key.
What is Leandra’s Law?
Leandra’s Law (NY VTL § 1192.2-a) makes it a Class E felony to drive while intoxicated with a passenger under age 16. It applies even to first-time DWI offenders and carries mandatory ignition interlock device requirements.
Will I go to jail for a felony DWI?
While state prison is a possibility, the outcome varies. A serious criminal charge lawyer Broome County can present arguments for alternative sentencing, such as probation, treatment programs, or shock incarceration, depending on your background and the case details.
How long will my license be revoked?
For a felony DWI conviction in NY, your license will be revoked for at least one year. You may be eligible for a conditional license after a mandatory waiting period, but you must install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle you drive.
External Resources & Links
- NY VTL § 1192 (Official NY Senate) – The official New York State statute defining DWI offenses.
- Broome County Supreme Court – The official website for the Broome County court where felony DWI cases are heard.
Related Legal Services in Broome County
If you are facing other legal challenges, our firm provides representation across multiple practice areas. Learn about our business law services. For other criminal matters, see our federal criminal defense page. For statewide information, visit our New York DUI/DWI lawyer hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.