As you may have heard, New Jersey is changing its DWI laws surrounding first-time offenders. In this change, the blood alcohol content, or BAC of the individual at his or her time of arrest will greatly impact the severity of the consequences he or she may face. If you have been convicted of a first-offense DWI in the state of New Jersey, here are some of the questions you may have:
What happens if I get a DWI in New Jersey with a BAC of .08%-.10%?
New Jersey’s updated DWI law changes the penalties of a first-offense DWI in the hopes to prevent first-time offenders from becoming repeat offenders. Now, for a first-offense DWI in New Jersey with a BAC between .08% and .10%, you will face the following consequences:
- Mandatory ignition interlock device installation and use at your own cost for up to 6 months
- A 30-day license forfeiture
- A $250-$500 fine
- Between 12 and 48 hours at the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC)
- Up to 30 days of imprisonment
What are the consequences of a first offense DWI with a BAC of .10%-.15%?
If you are found with a BAC of up to .15%, you may face harsher consequences, including a longer mandatory term with the ignition interlock device, as well as a lengthier license suspension time. The penalties for a first-offense DWI with a BAC between .10% and .15% are as follows:
- A 45-day license forfeiture
- Up to 30 days of jail time
- Mandatory installation and use of the ignition interlock device at your own cost for up to 1 year
- A $250-$500 fine
- Between 12 and 48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC)
What happens if I am convicted of a first-offense DWI with a BAC of .15% or higher?
If you are arrested with a BAC of .15% or higher, you are facing very serious consequences, even though it is only your first offense. The penalties for a first-offense DWI with a BAC of .15% or higher are as follows:
- A 90-day license forfeiture
- Up to 30 days of imprisonment
- Between 12 and 48 hours spent in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC)
- Mandatory installation and use of the ignition interlock device at your own cost for up to 18 months
- A $250-$500 fine
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
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, please do not hesitate to contact The Law Offices of George J. Mardinly to schedule a consultation.