DUI (driving while impaired) is a major crime in New Jersey that has very strict laws and punishments intended to deter driving while intoxicated. Understanding the legal context is essential for the first time you are charged with DUI or have been charged before. This guide will detail what happens when one gets caught driving under the influence in New Jersey, the possible penalties involved, and how the best DUI lawyer in NJ can help you navigate these difficult situations.
What Happens If You Get Arrested for DUI in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, it can adversely affect your life getting busted for DUI as it involves a series of legal actions. At the time of arrest, police usually give a field sobriety test followed by breath or blood tests to ascertain the level of alcohol in your blood (BAC). The moment BAC reads 0.08 percent or higher, arrest becomes inevitable.
Once done with charging, it is probable that you will be taken into custody; this includes where your vehicle may be impounded. You then have to go to a court hearing where the judge looks at the evidence against you and decides what next will happen in your case. Depending on the facts surrounding such cases, there is a possibility of penalties like imprisonment or fines, revocation of driving license, or even forcing someone to participate in some IDRC (Intoxicated Driver Resource Center).
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
In New Jersey, DUI laws carry severe consequences that increase for every subsequent charge. Thus, comprehending these penalties may help you determine how serious your case is and why hiring a lawyer is necessary.
1st Offense
1st Offense with a BAC of .08% to .10%:
Fines: $250 to $400
License Suspension: 3 months
Jail Time: Up to 30 days
Other Penalties: Minimum of 6 hours of community service in an Intoxicated Drivers Resource Center for two consecutive days. Three months’ installation of an ignition interlock device (IID).
1st Offense with a BAC of .10% to .15%:
Fines: $300 to $500
License Suspension: Until ignition interlock installed
Jail Time: Up to 30 days
Other Penalties: It entails performing community service for two days in a row at the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center, with a minimum of six hours each day. The duration required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) ranges from seven months to a year.
2nd Offense
Fines: $500 to $1,000
License Suspension: 2 years
Jail Time: 48 hours to 90 days
IDRC: 12 to 48 hours at an IDRC program, plus 30 days of community service
Other Penalties: Mandatory installation of an IID during and after license suspension for 1 to 3 years
3rd Offense
Fines: Minimum $1,000
License Suspension: 10 years
Jail Time: 180 days
IDRC: 12 to 48 hours at an IDRC program, plus up to 90 days of community service
Other Penalties: Mandatory IID installation for 1 to 3 years following license restoration
Is it Possible to Drop New Jersey DUI Charges?
Despite the severe DUI statutes in New Jersey, there are several situations in which it is still feasible to contest the charges and get them dropped. Unconstitutional Traffic Stops, inaccurate Blood Alcohol Content tests or improperly administered Field Sobriety Tests are some of the typical arguments made in defense against driving under the influence charges. However, dismissing DUI charges necessitates a thorough understanding of New Jersey legal requirements.
How the Best DUI Lawyer in NJ Can Help
Much is at stake when encountering DUI charges in New Jersey, and the legal procedure may prove tedious. The best DUI lawyer in NJ has experience and presents a way forward for navigating your case’s intricacies. Here are some ways that they can assist you:
Case Evaluation: A careful examination should be made regarding the arrest report and BAC test results while also contacting witnesses in order for possible defenses to be explored.
Negotiation: Possibly avoiding a trial altogether, skilled negotiations with the prosecutors serve to bring charges or penalties down.
Representation: A robust representation inside the court will make sure that at each point during the legal process, your rights are safeguarded.
Support: Guidance on the steps to strengthen your case, such as attending alcohol education programs or completing community service.
Conclusion
Regarding DUI charges in New Jersey, the stakes could not be higher. It’s essential to have a firm grasp of DUI laws and penalties and initiate measures to ensure a secure future for yourself. These penalties are severe but can always be contested by an experienced lawyer.
That’s why having the best DUI lawyer in NJ makes all the difference, as they will bring their vast legal knowledge and experience into your case at such a difficult moment. Mr. Baffuto is an experienced lawyer from the Law Offices of Bartholomew Baffuto who can help you with a DUI conviction in New Jersey.
