Long Island's Premier Criminal & DWI Defense Law Firm
Know Your Court: Where Long Island DWI Cases Are Heard
Where your DWI case is heard depends on where you were arrested. Knowing your court tells you where to go, who will prosecute the case, and how it is likely to move.
Nassau County
| Court | Where | What it handles |
|---|---|---|
| First District Court | 99 Main Street, Hempstead | Most Nassau DWI arrests: arraignments, the suspension at arraignment, and misdemeanor DWI cases through trial |
| Nassau County Court | 262 Old Country Road, Mineola | Felony DWI and vehicular cases after indictment. See Nassau County Court in Mineola |
| Glen Cove and Long Beach City Courts | In each city | Arrests made inside those cities |
Nassau County is strict on DWI. The District Attorney’s office has prosecutors who focus on DWI, and reductions are harder to get than in many counties. They usually depend on real problems with the evidence or strong mitigation, such as early treatment.
Suffolk County
| Court | Where | What it handles |
|---|---|---|
| First District Court | Cohalan Court Complex, Central Islip | Arraignments and misdemeanor DWI cases from the five western towns: Babylon, Brookhaven, Huntington, Islip and Smithtown |
| East End town justice courts | Riverhead, Southampton, Southold, East Hampton, Shelter Island | DWI cases from those towns, heard in each town’s own court |
| Suffolk County Court | Riverhead and Central Islip | Felony DWI and vehicular cases after indictment |
What happens at your first court date
- Arraignment. You are formally charged and enter a not guilty plea. See what happens at an arraignment.
- Your license. With a 0.08 or higher result, your license is suspended pending prosecution. With a refusal, it is temporarily suspended. Check your dates.
- Release. Most people charged with a misdemeanor DWI are released. The judge may set conditions.
- Next date. Your case is adjourned for discovery and conferences. Later appearances can sometimes be handled by your lawyer.
Finding your next court date
Your paperwork lists your next date and the courtroom (the “part”). New York’s online court case search covers many pending criminal cases, and any lawyer can look your case up. If you’re not sure where to go, call us and read us your paperwork. Going to the wrong courthouse counts as missing court.
Where are DWI cases heard in Nassau County?
Most are heard at the First District Court, 99 Main Street, Hempstead. Felony DWI cases move to Nassau County Court in Mineola after indictment.
Where are DWI cases heard in Suffolk County?
Arrests in the five western towns go to the First District Court in Central Islip. East End arrests go to the town justice court in Riverhead, Southampton, Southold, East Hampton or Shelter Island.
Do I have to go to every court date?
You must attend your arraignment. Some later appearances can be handled by your lawyer with the court’s permission, but never assume you can skip a date.
Talk to a former DWI prosecutor
Call or text (516) 939-1529, 24/7. The first consultation is free, in person, by video call or by phone call.
These tools are not a lawyer. We work to keep the numbers and the law on these pages accurate and up to date, but laws, fines and DMV rules change, and some information here may be incorrect or out of date. The results are general information, not legal advice, and using these tools does not create an attorney-client relationship. Always contact a lawyer to confirm the answers and how the law applies to your case. Call or text (516) 939-1529, 24/7.
Our Offices
Garden City Office
1225 Franklin Ave #325
Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (516) 939-1529
Appointments Only
See What Our Clients Are Saying
During what was one of the scariest times of my life, he gave me all of the knowledge and support possible to help me get through it. Not only did I end up getting a great outcome for my case, but Richard helped make it a very smooth process and was always there when I had...
Mr. Hochausser worked hard on my behalf.. so hard that he achieved what seemed impossible. He always communicated with me honestly and earnestly, which is rare in any profession these days. He was prepared and forthright every step of the way. I hope to never need his services...
Best Criminal Attorney in New York. Richard explains each detail slowly and carefully so it’s easily understood. He handles each case as if it’s the most important. Highly recommend!
Best DWI lawyer in New York!
Mr. Hochhauser was incredible. I was consulted immediately after the first call. Richard was easy to keep in touch with and would answer all of my emails, phone calls, and even texts regarding my concerns. Guided me through the whole process, made sure I understood everything...
Richard explained the matters of my case thoroughly and was professional and effective in dealing with the charges I was facing, ultimately getting the docket dismissed in its entirety. I would highly recommend procuring his services.
Was in a bad spot but Richard Hochhauser got me great results on my DWI case in Nassau County. Highly Recommend!!!
Can't thank Richard enough. He went aobve and beyond for me. Never had any issues with the law before and he made sure I had no record. Great Criminal Attorney!!!
Was never really in trouble before. And just googled best criminal attorney near me. Feel so lucky that Richard was the one I called. He really fought for me was very knowledgeable. Highly recommend!!
Call Now to schedule a Free Consultation with Richard Hochhauser
Call or text anytime.