First Offense DWI In New Jersey – Penalties & Punishments... And How The Right Attorney Can Be A Game Changer
If you need help with a 1st offense DWI, 1402 of my clients received NO DWI Conviction – CALL ME
Facing a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charge for the first time can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. The road ahead may seem uncertain, but it’s crucial to understand that you are not alone in this journey.
The first step after a DWI arrest is to stay calm and educate yourself about the process and your rights. It’s essential to act swiftly, as the choices you make immediately following your arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
First and foremost, consider your legal representation options. An experienced DWI attorney can be a game-changer in navigating the complex legal system and advocating on your behalf. This is where Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law comes into play.
With a team of seasoned professionals who specialize in DWI cases, Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law stands out for its commitment to defending individuals accused of DWI. The firm understands the nuances of DWI laws and employs a strategic approach to each case, aiming for the best possible outcome for their clients.
Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law offers comprehensive legal services, including a thorough review of your case, guidance on potential penalties, and representation in court. Their skills also extends to challenging the evidence against you, such as the reliability of breathalyzer tests and the legality of the traffic stop, providing a robust defense that aims to protect your rights at every turn.
Remember, a DWI charge does not have to define your future. With the right support and legal advice, you can navigate this challenging time. Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law is dedicated to helping individuals like you move forward with confidence, offering personalized attention and expert legal counsel every step of the way.
Past & Present Penalties for 1st Time DWI Convictions
New Jersey DWI Laws & Penalties Prior To 12/1/19
If you were arrested for drunk driving, you faced these penalties if you were found guilty:
NJ DWI First Offense (BAC .08-.10)
- Jail for up to 30 days
- Fines $250-400
- License suspended for 3 months
- Alcohol education classes at at Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) for 12-48 hours total
- Additional DMV surcharges & court fees totaling nearing $4000
NJ DWI First Offense (BAC .10 or higher – or DWI Drugs)
- Jail for up to 30 days
- Fines $300-500
- License suspended for 7 months to 1 year
- Alcohol education classes at at Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) for 12-48 hours total
- Additional DMV surcharges & court fees totaling nearing $4000
- Possible Ignition Interlock Device 6 months – 1 year after license suspension
NJ DWI/DUI Second (2nd) Offense
- Jail for up to 90 days, 2 days minimum
- Fines $500-1000
- License suspended for 2 years
- Alcohol education classes at at Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) for 12-48 hours total
- Additional DMV surcharges & court fees totaling nearing $4000
- Possible Ignition Interlock Device for 1-3 years after license suspension OR auto registration revoked for 2 years
NJ DWI/DUI Third (3rd) Offense
- Jail for a minimum of 6 months
- Fines $1000
- License suspended for 10 years
- Alcohol education classes at at Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) for 12-48 hours total
- Additional DMV surcharges & court fees totaling nearing $4000
- Possible Ignition Interlock Device for 1-3 years after license suspension OR auto registration revoked for 10 years
New Jersey DWI Laws & Penalties As Of 12/1/19
If you’ve been arrested for drunk driving, you now face the following penalties if you are found guilty:
NJ DWI First Offense (BAC .08-.10)
- You could be imprisoned up to 30 days
- Fines $250-400
- License will be suspended until you pay for and install an ignition interlock device
- Alcohol education classes at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) for 12-48 hours total
NJ DWI First Offense (BAC .10 but less than 0.15%)
- You could be imprisoned up to 30 days
- Fines $300-500
- License will be suspended until you pay for and install an ignition interlock device
- Alcohol education classes at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) for 12-48 hours total
NJ DWI First Offense (BAC 0.15% and higher)
- You could be imprisoned up to 30 days
- Fines $300-500
- License will be suspended for 4 – 6 months
- Alcohol education classes at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) for up to 48 hours total
NJ DWI/DUI Second (2nd) Offense
- Jail for up to 90 days, 2 days minimum
- HEAVY Fines
- License suspended for 1 – 2 years
- Ignition Interlock Device for 2 – 4 years after license suspension
NJ DWI/DUI Third (3rd) Offense
- Jail for a minimum of 6 months
- HEAVY Fines
- License suspended for 8 years
- Ignition Interlock Device for 2 – 4 years after license suspension
Enhanced DWI Penalties
School or School Crossing Zone
If you are found guilty of a DWI and were found to be driving within 1000 feet of school property or a school crossing zone, you could go to jail for up to 60 days on a first offense, and face fines of $500-1000, and an additional license suspension of 1-2 years.
For a second offense DWI violation with 1000 feet of a school, there is a mandatory 60 days community service, 4-180 days in jail, fines $1000-$2000, and an additional 4 year license suspension.
For a third offense DWI violation with 1000 feet of a school, you will be sentenced to 6 months in jail, fines of $2000, and an additional 20 year license suspension.
For refusing to submit to a breath test for a DWI charge within a school zone, fines are $500-1000, and an additional license suspension of 1 year on a first offense, 4 years on a second offense, and 20 years on a third offense.
See the penalties for other DWI offenses below:
