Haddon Heights, New Jersey Criminal Defense Attorneys
DWI offenders can expect fines, jail sentences, and license suspensions to increase with each additional conviction for drunk driving. Additionally, those convicted for a second or third DWI are required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on their car. An IID attaches to your car and functions like a breathalyzer. In order to start your car, you must blow into the IID. If it measures your blood alcohol content (BAC) at .02 percent or higher, your car will not start. You may also be required to blow into the IID periodically as you drive. If at any time your BAC is measured above .02 percent, your car will automatically shut off. Under New Jersey state law, DWI offenders are responsible for the cost of installing and maintaining an IID.
At the law office of Kearney & Associates, P.C., our DWI defense lawyers may be able to reduce the charges or sentence against you. Depending on your driving record, we may be able to convince the court to place you on probation or minimize the period for which your license is suspended. If you've been arrested a second or third time on charges of drunk driving, contact the DWI defense attorneys at Kearney & Associates, P.C., today.
DWI Penalties in the State of New Jersey
If you've been arrested for drunk driving, you face the following penalties if convicted:
- First Offense (BAC = .08 to .10 percent): A fine of $250 to $400; a three month loss or your license; a 12 to 48 hour minimum jail sentence with the possibility of spending 30 days in jail at the discretion of the court; a New Jersey DMV surcharge of $1,000 for three years. Other fines may apply as well.
- First Offense (BAC = .10 percent or higher or involving drugs): A fine of $300 to $500; loss of your license for seven months to a year; a 12 to 48 hour minimum jail sentence with the possibility of spending 30 days in jail at the discretion of the court; installation at your own cost of an ignition interlock device six months to a year after your license has been reinstated. Other fines may apply as well.
- Second DWI Offense: A fine of $500 to $1,000; mandatory community service of 30 days; a minimum jail sentence of 48 hours with the possibility of serving 90 days; loss of your license for two years; installation at your own cost of an ignition interlock device for one to three years following the reinstatement of y our license; revocation of your registration for two years. Other fines may apply.
- Third DWI Offense: A fine of $1,000; loss of your license for 10 years; a mandatory minimum jail sentence of 180 days; a DMV surcharge of $1,000 per year for 3 years; at your own expense, installation of an ignition interlock device; revocation of your registration for ten years. Other fines may apply.
Don't Lose Your License for Good - Contact Kearney & Associates, P.C.
There are a number of issues that must be evaluated in DWI arrests: did the arresting officer have reasonable suspicion to pull you over? Did he or she conduct the sobriety test properly? Was the breathalyzer used correctly calibrated? At Kearney & Associates, P.C., our attorneys have the knowledge and resources needed to challenge questionable DWI arrests.
Before you plead "guilty" to a DWI charge, contact the DWI defense attorneys at the law office of Kearney & Associates, P.C., today.
