Founding Attorney
If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Nassau County, securing legal representation immediately can be the single most important step in protecting your rights. A skilled defense attorney helps ensure that your case is handled properly from the start, reducing the risk of license suspension, criminal conviction, or long-term penalties.
Having an attorney by your side means you’ll have someone who:
- Reviews every detail of your arrest and BAC testing procedures
- Challenges evidence obtained unlawfully or without probable cause
- Represents you in DMV hearings to fight license suspension
- Negotiates plea reductions or conditional licenses when possible
- Protects your record and minimizes the impact on your future
What Are the DWI Charges You Could Face in Nassau County?
New York recognizes several categories of DWI offenses, each carrying different penalties based on blood alcohol content (BAC), age, and prior record.
Common DWI-related charges include:
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI): BAC of 0.08 or higher (0.04 for commercial drivers)
- Aggravated DWI: BAC of 0.18 or higher
- DWAI/Alcohol: BAC between 0.05 and 0.07
- DWAI/Drug: Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs, including prescription medications
- Chemical Test Refusal: Refusing a breath, blood, or urine test after lawful arrest
- Zero Tolerance Law: For drivers under 21 with a BAC between 0.02 and 0.07
Nassau County law enforcement is known for strict DWI enforcement, with roadside checkpoints, enhanced patrols, and aggressive prosecution in courts such as Hempstead, Mineola, and Garden City.
What Penalties Can You Face After a DWI in Nassau County?
DWI penalties in New York vary depending on the charge, prior history, and whether aggravating factors were present.
Typical penalties include:
- Fines: $500–$2,500 depending on offense level
- License Revocation: Minimum six months for DWI, one year for Aggravated DWI
- Jail Time: Up to one year for a first DWI offense
- Ignition Interlock Device: Mandatory for certain convictions
- Increased Insurance Rates and Employment Impact
Repeat offenses, chemical test refusals, or cases involving injury often trigger enhanced penalties and mandatory minimum sentences.
How a Nassau County DWI Defense Attorney Can Help
A DWI attorney does more than represent you in court—they help protect your future, license, and reputation. At Michael A. Arbeit, P.C., we know what it takes to challenge DWI charges effectively in Nassau County.
Our legal team will:
- Review your traffic stop and arrest for legal or procedural violations
- Challenge unreliable field sobriety or breath test results
- Represent you at arraignment and all court appearances
- Work to reduce or dismiss charges when possible
- Negotiate for alternative sentencing or treatment programs
- Defend you in DMV administrative hearings
If you face Aggravated DWI, test refusal, or Zero Tolerance Law violations, our team takes prompt action to protect your driving privileges and your record.
Why Acting Quickly Matters After a DWI Arrest
Timing is critical in DWI defense. From the moment you’re arrested, your license and case begin moving through administrative and criminal processes. Failing to act quickly can limit your defense options.
Early representation allows your attorney to:
- File for a DMV hearing within the required 10 days
- Prevent automatic license suspension
- Preserve key evidence such as dashcam footage or witness statements
- Negotiate with prosecutors before formal charges escalate
At Michael A. Arbeit, P.C., we work swiftly to safeguard your rights and build the strongest possible defense from day one.
Contact Our Nassau County DWI Defense Attorney
If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Nassau County, you don’t have to face it alone. Michael A. Arbeit, P.C. offers confidential consultations to help you understand your options and take immediate steps toward a better outcome.
We proudly defend clients in Garden City, Freeport, Hempstead, Mineola, and throughout Long Island and New York City. Contact us today to speak with a trusted Nassau County DWI defense attorney who will protect your rights and help you move forward.
What should I do immediately after a DWI arrest in Nassau County?
Request to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Avoid answering detailed questions until your lawyer is present, and request a DMV hearing within 10 days to fight license suspension.
Can a DWI be reduced to a lesser charge in Nassau County?
Yes. Depending on your record and the evidence, your attorney may negotiate a reduction to a DWAI or non-criminal offense, which carries lighter penalties and reduced long-term consequences.
Will I lose my license after a first DWI?
You may face a temporary suspension immediately after arrest. However, your attorney can request a hearing and, in some cases, obtain a conditional license allowing limited driving privileges.