The Fourth of July is an exciting holiday. Many people celebrate Independence Day with barbecues and fireworks. Often, these events involve alcoholic beverages. When party-goers make the decision to drive home while intoxicated, they put lives at risk. As a result, New Jersey takes DWI charges very seriously. Read on to learn more about DWIs in New Jersey.
What if I am Charged with a DWI for the First Time?
If you are pulled over with a DWI of .08-.09% and this is your first DWI, you may face the following penalties:
- A license forfeiture of 30 days
- Will will have to spend up to 48 hours at the New Jersey IDRC
- You may face up to 30 days of incarceration
- A $500 fine
- You will have to install and use the ignition interlock device for between 3 and 6 months, at your own cost
In New Jersey, first DWI charges are tiered, so if your BAC is .10% or above, your penalties will increase.
What if I am Charged with a DWI for the Second Time in New Jersey?
For a second DWI offense in New Jersey, you will now be considered a repeat offended and you may face the following:
- You may go to jail for 90 days
- You will face a $1,000 fine
- You will most likely have to pay a $100 fine to the Drunk Driving Fund
- A $75 fine to the Neighborhood Services Fund
- You will have to install and use an ignition interlock device, at your own cost
- You may lose your license for 2 years
- You may have to spend up to 48 hours in the New Jersey IDRC
What are the Penalties for a Third DWI in NJ?
The consequences of a third DWI are incredibly serious and can mean losing your license forever. You may also face the following:
- You will most likely face a $1,000 fine
- $100 fine to the Drunk Driving Fund
- $75 fine to the Neighborhood Services Fund
- You may go to jail for 90 days
- You may lose your license for two years
- You may have to spend up to 48 hours in the IDRC
- The use of the ignition interlock device, at your own cost
If you are facing DWI charges in New Jersey, our firm is here to help. We will explore all possible avenues of defense.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
Thomas DeMarco & Associates, LLC is an experienced Camden County criminal defense law firm located in Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey. We understand how potentially damaging a criminal can be, which is why we pride ourselves on our willingness to fight for our client’s rights. Our firm handles all criminal matters and is ready to provide you with our knowledgeable legal counsel. Do not hesitate to contact our firm to discuss your legal situation.
