This Halloween, police will be checking to ensure all motorists are behaving responsibly by complying with the law. If you are arrested for a DWI in the state of New Jersey, you must not wait to speak with an attorney, as the penalties you will face can change your life forever. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the consequences of a first-offense DWI in New Jersey?
New Jersey has recently updated its DWI laws for first-time offenders to better reflect the nature of the crime and to hopefully deter repeat offenders in the future. If this is your first DWI offense with a BAC between .08% and .10%, you may face the following penalties:
- Mandatory ignition interlock device at your own cost for 3-6 months
- A 30-day license suspension
- A $250-$500 fine
- 12-48 hours at the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
- Up to 30 days incarceration
However, if this is your first offense and you were caught with a BAC between 0.10%-0.15%, you will be required to install the ignition interlock device from between 6 months to 1 year, and you risk losing your driving privileges for 45 days. If you had a BAC of .015% or higher, you will be required to install and use an interlock device for 12-18 months, and you will lose your license for 90 days.
What happens if I am charged with a DWI for a second time?
If this is your second DWI offense, you will be treated as a repeat offender, and New Jersey courts will be far less forgiving this time around. You may face the following consequences for a second-offense DWI in New Jersey:
- Up to 90 days incarceration
- A 2-year loss of license
- $1000 yearly surcharge for 3 years
- A $100 Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund Fee
- A $100 Drunk Driving Fund
- A $75 Neighborhood Services Fund
- 12-48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
- A $500-$1000 fine
What are the consequences of a third or subsequent DWI in New Jersey?
If this is your third or subsequent DWI offense, your life may be altered forever if you do not hire an experienced attorney. Third or subsequent offenders face the following consequences:
- Up to 180 days incarceration
- 10-year loss of license
- A $1500 yearly surcharge for 3 years
- 12-48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) and related fees
- A $1000 fine
- A $100 Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund Fee
- A $100 Drunk Driving Fund
- A $75 Neighborhood Services Fund
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.