Union County, New Jersey DWI Criminal Defense Attorney

Being arrested for DWI is a serious matter that can have major consequences, including loss of driving privileges, jail time, and monetary fines. It is crucial that anyone facing an DWI (DWI) charge understand what challenges they will encounter. Seeking the legal advice of a capable and professional DWI defense lawyer will help you understand all of your rights and options, including any defenses you might use.

Arrested for DUI in Union County?

Under New Jersey law, when you have been cited for violating the DWI statute, the state imposes penalties based on your blood-alcohol concentration (BAC). New Jersey uses a 2-tier system to impose DUI or DWI charges upon an offender:

• 1. BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) level between 0.08% and 0.10%
• 2. BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) level of 0.10% or greater

DWI Penalties for First Time Offenders with a BAC Between 0.08% and 0.10%

• Driving Privileges - A DWI conviction in Union County, New Jersey results in the suspension of driving privileges for 3 months.
• Additional Penalties - The first time offender must attend an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center for a minimum of 6 hours a day for 2 consecutive days.
• Jail Time - A first time DUI offender in Union County, New Jersey will face up to 30 days imprisonment.
• Monetary Fine - The fine for a first time DUI in Union County, New Jersey is from $250 to $400.

DWI Penalties for First Time Offenders with a BAC of 0.10% or Higher

• Jail Time - A first time DUI offender in Union County, New Jersey will face up to thirty days time in jail.
• Additional Penalties - The first time offender must attend an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center for a minimum of 6 hours a day for 2 consecutive days.
• Time in Jail - A first time DWI offender will face up to two months imprisonment.
• Driving Privileges - A DWI conviction in Union County, New Jersey results in the revocation of driving privileges in New Jersey for 7 months, up to 1 year.
• Chemical Test Refusal - Refusing to submit to a test when requested by law enforcement will result in the suspension of driving privileges for 6 months and a fine of $250.00, up to $500.00.

New Jersey Intoxicated driver program

In Union County, New Jersey, any person convicted of an alcohol related traffic offense must participate in a program at a New Jersey Intoxicated Driving Resource Center (IDRC):

• New Jersey has an IDRC in each county for first and third-time DUI / DWI offenders and three regional centers for second-time DWI offenders
• DWI offenders attend mandatory Alcohol and Highway Safety Education classes
• IDRC evaluates each offender for an alcohol or drug problem and will determine any need for treatment. If treatment is needed, the center refers the offender to an appropriate provider for a 16-week minimum treatment.
• The DWI offender may supplement (but not replace) the treatment with attendance at a self-help group
• IDRC monitors all compliance and reports any noncompliance to the courts and the New Jersey MVC.

Satisfactory participation in IDRC is a step toward restoring your license. Failure to comply will result in further suspension of your driving privileges and possible imprisonment.

Failure to pay DWI Surcharges

Surcharges are fines assessed by the New Jersey MVC (Motor Vehicle Commission) on an annual basis for drivers who have earned excessive points or committed a specific violation such as DUI or DWI. Surcharges are in addition to any court fines or penalties you may be facing.

• Can result in the indefinite suspension of driving privileges in New Jersey
• Can result in an action filed in State Superior Court by the New Jersey MVC. This may include securing a lien against your property, garnishing your wages or other actions.

Subsequent DUI or DWI Offenses in New Jersey

For any additional DUI violations, penalties are more severe. Because of the complexity of DUI laws in Union County, New Jersey, you may not be aware of options and rights. This is why an accomplished and skilled attorney can guide you through this emotionally challenging process. Please contact a New Jersey DWI (driving while impaired) lawyer for a free consultation.