DWI charges are among the most serious driving offenses a motorist can commit. Though everyone knows driving under the influence is wrong, people do it anyway. However, we believe that a simple mistake should not affect the rest of your life. If you are facing a DWI charge, please read on to learn more about your legal options going forward.
What are the potential penalties for a first-offense DWI in New Jersey?
Despite the fact that this is only your first offense, the courts will still aggressively pursue your charges. New Jersey does not take drunk driving lightly, which is why it is so important you hire an experienced attorney. If this is only your first offense, an attorney may be able to have a DWI charge downgraded. Here are some of the consequences you may face for a first-offense DWI:
- A 3-month license suspension
- Up to 30 days of jail time
- 12-48 hours in the IDRC, with applicable fees
- A $250-$400 fine
- $100 to AERF
- $100 to the Drunk Driving Fund
- A 3-year surcharge of $1000 per year
- $75 to the Neighborhood Services Fund
What are the consequences of a second-offense New Jersey DWI?
If this is your second offense, rather obviously, the courts will treat you as a repeat offender. In other words, they will do whatever they can to ensure your charges stick. Here are some of the consequences you will face if convicted:
- A 2-year loss of license
- A $500-$1000 fine
- Up to 90 days of jail time
- 12-48 hours in the IDRC, with applicable fees
- A 3-year surcharge of $1000 per year
- $75 to the Neighborhood Services Fund
- Up to 30 days of community service
- An interlock device installation for the duration of your license suspension and 1-3 years after
- $100 to AERF
- $100 to the Drunk Driving Fund
What happens if this is my third DWI in New Jersey?
If this is your third or subsequent DWI, you have a lot on the line. A 10-year license revocation is a big deal. This is why you simply cannot wait any longer to contact an experienced attorney who is ready to fight. Here are some of the consequences you may face if this is your third or subsequent DWI offense:
- A 10-year license revocation
- A $1000 fine
- Up to 180 days in jail
- 12-48 hours in the IDRC with applicable fees
- $75 to the Neighborhood Services Fund
- Up to 90 days of community service
- Ignition Interlock Device during license suspension and 1-3 years after
- $100 to AERF
- $100 to the Drunk Driving Fund
- A 3-year surcharge of $1000 per year
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
The law firm of Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C., is composed of experienced defense attorneys throughout the state of New Jersey. We understand the severity and immediacy of all personal injury claims and additional legal matters, and we provide each of our clients with compassionate and aggressive legal assistance, every step of the way. Please contact our office for a free initial consultation and get any questions answered regarding your legal case.