DWI Laws in New Jersey: How Will They Affect You if You Get Pulled Over

There was once a time when driving while intoxicated was something that people joked about – even bragged about. Those days are long gone: all around the United States, driving while drunk, or even tipsy, is treated as a serious issue, and in some states it is even considered a criminal offense. The laws that have been written to address the issue of driving under the influence vary from state to state, and the DWI laws in New Jersey are some of the strictest in the country. As a result, those who have been pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence need to make sure that they have legal representation that has extensive experience in defending drivers charged with DWI. The attorneys at Wallace Law have a record of success in challenging arrests and defending the rights of drivers.

Though the state of New Jersey does not consider driving while intoxicated a criminal offense, the laws that have been created make life extremely difficult for anybody who has been convicted. The fines, fees and penalties are extensive, and those who are repeat offenders have no right to a jury trial: instead a municipal judge reviews all charges and evidence and hands down a ruling. These rulings may include jail time, thousands of dollars in fines, license suspension, and the required use of an ignition interlock device once the license is reinstated. Drivers may also be required to take mandatory driver’s education classes or to perform community service.

Though some argue that New Jersey’s laws are too tough, others argue that they are not tough enough and that it is a mistake not to consider driving under the influence a crime. More than half of drivers whose licenses have been suspended for violating DWI laws in New Jersey continue to drive.  This is a mistake, as repeat offenders face even more drastic fines and penalties.

The state of New Jersey’s DWI laws permit a judge to suspend a driver’s license for anywhere from three months to ten years, depending upon the various factors involved in the incident. All other penalties are also subjective depending upon elements such as blood alcohol content, whether the driver has previously been convicted of similar charges, and whether you were driving in a school zone or had a child in the vehicle.

The cost of a DWI in the state of New Jersey is very high. Surcharges include hundreds of dollars for line items such as Safe Neighborhood Services, an Alcohol Education, Rehabilitation and Enforcement Fund, and court costs. Additionally, your will automatically be subject to a surcharge on your auto insurance that will last a period of years. In order to minimize the impact of DWI laws in New Jersey, contact the knowledgeable attorneys at Wallace Law. Our experience will work to your benefit.