Being charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is very serious. In New Jersey, an individual can be found guilty of a DWI in if they are found driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over of 0.08%. A person’s BAC can be determined through a Breathalyzer or an Alcotest. The state of New Jersey is aggressive in cases against those charged with a DWI. The charges may result in devastating fines and the possibility of jail time. The state does not permit plea bargains or temporary licenses. The consequences of a DWI may vary depending on how far over the legal intoxication limit a driver is.
First Offense DWI
For drivers with a BAC over 0.08% but under 0.10%, those penalties may include:
- Up to 30 days in jail
- Loss of license for 3 months
- A $1000 fine per year for 3 years
- A $250-$400 fee
- A $100 Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund fee
- A $100 Drunk Driving Fund Fee
- A $75 Neighborhood Services Fund Fee
- 12-48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
For those with a BAC over 0.10%, there is a different set of consequences:
- Up to 30 days in jail
- License suspension for 7-12 months
- A $1000 surcharge for 3 years
- A $300-$500 fine
- A $100 Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund fee
- A $100 Drunk Driving Fund fee
- A $75 Neighborhood Services Fund fee
- 12-48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
Second Offense DWI
A second time DWI offender is subject to consequences different than those of a first-timer. That may include:
- The possibility of 90 days in jail
- Loss of license for 2 years
- $1000 yearly surcharge for 3 years
- A $500-$1000 fine
- A $100 Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund fee
- A $100 Drunk Driving Fund fee
- A $75 Neighborhood Services Fund fee
- 12-48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
Third Offense DWI
If an individual is charged with a third DWI offense within 10 years, they are subject to more severe consequences. This may involve:
- Up to 180 days in jail
- Loss of license for 10 years
- A $1500 yearly surcharge for 3 years
- A $300-$500 fine
- A $100 Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund fee
- A $100 Drunk Driving Fund fee
- A $75 Neighborhood Services Fund fee
- 12-48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
Contact Our Firm
If you have been arrested for a DWI, it is important to speak to an attorney who can assess your situation and guide you in the best direction. Contact the Law Offices of George J. Mardinly today.
Our firm proudly represents clients in New Jersey who are faced with matters of family law, criminal defense, business law, real estate law, or estate planning. If you require strong and dedicated representation for any of your legal matters, contact The Law Offices of George J. Mardinly to schedule a consultation.