Whether you should rely on a public defender or hire a private attorney after an arrest for DWI in New Jersey depends on several factors.

Here are some points to consider:

1. Financial Resources: If you cannot afford to hire a private attorney, you may be eligible for a public defender. Public defenders are provided by the state to individuals who meet specific income requirements. If you qualify, a public defender can represent you at no cost or for a reduced fee.
2. Caseload and Individual Attention: Public defenders often have heavy caseloads due to the high demand for their services. This can limit the amount of individual attention and time they can dedicate to each case. Private attorneys, on the other hand, typically have fewer cases, allowing them to provide more personalized attention to your specific situation.
3. Experience and Expertise: While public defenders are qualified attorneys, they may not specialize exclusively in DWI defense. Private attorneys who focus on DWI cases often have extensive experience and knowledge in this specific area of the law. Their specialization can potentially lead to better outcomes in your case.
4. Resources and Investigative Support: Private attorneys may have access to more resources, such as investigators and expert witnesses, which can be beneficial in building a strong defense strategy. Public defenders might have limited access to such resources due to budget constraints.
5. Personal Preference: Ultimately, the decision to rely on a public defender or hire a private attorney comes down to your personal preference. Some individuals prefer the peace of mind that comes with having a private attorney who can provide dedicated attention and tailored advice throughout the legal process.

It’s essential to weigh these factors and consider your specific circumstances when making a decision. Consulting with both a public defender (if eligible) and a private attorney through initial consultations can provide you with a better understanding of the options available to you and help you make an informed decision.

If you’re dealing with a DWI arrest in New Jersey, get the legal help you need to move forward with your life. Call Matthew Reisig today at 732-625-9660 for a free consultation with an experienced New Jersey DWI defense attorney.

 

Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law, LLC
1 Broad St
Freehold, NJ 07728
732-625-9660

 

For one Valhalla, New York, man, the “NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION” label should have been a giveaway that what he was about to consume might be a bad choice before hitting the road.

Joseph Donofrio, 35, was spotted by cops in Wayne, New Jersey, as he made “extremely dangerous” lane changes on Route 23 southbound.

He was also speeding and driving recklessly when a patrol car pulled him over.

Donofrio told officers that he was going to a hospital, but police quickly found that Donofrio’s passenger, who was not identified in media accounts, was holding a bottle containing a prescription-only mood stabilizer for dogs and cats.

Donofrio admitted that he had been drinking the concoction, and as he demonstrated slurred speech and jerky hand movements, was unable to tell police how much he’d had or how long he’d been drinking his “Catnip Cocktail.”

Donofrio has been charged with DWI and inhaling toxic substances, as well as various traffic violations.

He was released to a sober adult and will face a judge soon.

If you’ve been charged with DWI in New Jersey, however weird the circumstances, an experienced New Jersey DWI defense lawyer can make a big difference for you.

Call Matthew Reisig today at 732-378-9272 for a free consultation on how he can help you build a strong defense against NJ DUI Laws.

If you’re going to be drinking, it’s important that you choose wisely when it comes to where you sleep it off.

One New Jersey driver learned the hard way that a Wawa parking lot is not a good choice.

It happened on October 26, when employees of the Wawa on Route 9 in Lacey called police to report that a woman was sleeping in a car outside.

Officers Martin Julian and Patrick Watkins arrived at the scene at 7:23 p.m. and found Jaymee Tice-Britton, 35, asleep behind the wheel in her vehicle.

Media reports say that an “investigation” occurred, which may have included a visual search of the interior of the car, field sobriety tests, and questions intended to determine whether Tice-Britton had been drinking.

Apparently, the investigation yielded results, because Tice-Britton was taken to police headquarters and now faces charges of reckless driving, DWI, and had her car impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

All in all, not a good evening for the Forked River woman.

If you’ve been charged with DWI and related charges in New Jersey, get the kind of help that can make a difference.

Matthew Reisig has helped more than 1,040 New Jersey drivers avoid conviction for DWI.

Call 732-625-9660 today for a free consultation with an experienced New Jersey DWI defense lawyer.

Penalties In New Jersey When You Receive A DUI Out Of State During Vacation

Vacations are great, but for one East Orange man, a family adventure to Florida took a wrong turn when he was pulled over for driving without his headlights overnight in mid-October.

Marion County Deputy Gary Miller pulled Joseph T. Dent over and noticed a strong odor of alcohol in the vehicle, which also contained Dent’s wife and 10-month-old child.

Dent said he hadn’t been drinking, but had taken a Xanax earlier in the evening.

Miller asked Dent to perform a series of field sobriety tests, during which Dent took an incorrect number of steps, failed to touch his finger to his nose, and recited the alphabet incorrectly.

He was taken to the Marion County Jail, while his family was taken to a local motel.

Assuming he’s convicted, what happens to Dent, and other New Jersey drivers dealing with out-of-state drunk driving charges?

Well, in most cases, penalties like a license suspension will carry over to New Jersey.

An interstate compact that most states are party to gives local authorities in the jurisdiction where you’re convicted the ability to notify New Jersey’s motor vehicle commission of a DUI conviction, and the MVC will notify you in writing that your New Jersey driver’s license is suspended.

There are sometimes options to appeal the decision, but it’s rare to succeed in such an action on your own.

An experienced lawyer can make a big difference in how the state manages a second-jurisdiction DUI conviction.

To get the help you need, call Matthew Reisig today at 732-625-9660 for a free consultation with an experienced New Jersey DWI defense lawyer.

New Jersey DUI Defense Lawyer

Following an open records request from The Trentonian newspaper, bodycam footage has emerged of an R-rated tirade from a New Jersey assemblywoman as she was arrested for DWI in April.

Assemblywoman Maria Rodriguez-Gregg, 35, who represents parts of Atlantic, Burlington, and Camden counties, was sitting at a red light in Mount Laurel the night of April 28 when another vehicle rear-ended her, prompting police to come to the scene.

While Rodriguez-Gregg was not responsible for the accident, officers claimed they smelled marijuana in her car and believed that she was intoxicated.

This didn’t sit well with the Assemblywoman. “I have don’t nothing but support the police,” she tells them on the video. “I am even one of your number one supporters politically. F—ing a–holes!”

She denied smoking marijuana, telling police that she had been smoking cigars in her car. “Are you serious right now?” she asked police. “I’m a sitting assemblywoman. Do you really think that I’m f—ing smoking marijuana at this time of night? All right, I’m calling my lawyer.”

Police threatened to charge her with obstruction if she didn’t exit the vehicle to allow a search.

When they did finally execute the search, no marijuana was found.

She refused sobriety tests on the grounds that the police were harassing her, and she was arrested and charged with DWI, reckless driving, and obstruction of justice.

Blood tests showed “some indication of alcohol,” but no signs of marijuana.

Rodriguez-Gregg has fought all charges in the intervening months, and in August, she announced that she would not seek re-election. She is the first Republican Hispanic woman ever elected to the New Jersey legislature.

Defense Against Drunk Driving Charges In New Jersey

This is a case that seems to be filled with avenues for a driver’s defense lawyer to explore, but the truth is that nearly every DWI has valid paths to a strong defense.

You can save yourself a lot of headache, and possibly a lot of consequences, by working with an experienced DWI defense lawyer when you’ve been charged.

MatthewReisig has helped more than 1,040 New Jersey drivers avoid conviction on DWI and related charges. Call 732-625-9660 today to talk to an experienced New Jersey DWI defense lawyer for free.

Understanding Your DUI Charges & What To Consider When Talking With Attorneys

Comprehending the Specifics of Your Charges

When faced with DUI charges in New Jersey, it is crucial to understand the specifics of your case.

Begin your consultation by asking your attorney to explain the charges against you. What evidence does the prosecution have? Are there any aggravating factors, such as a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or involvement in an accident? Understanding these details will provide a clearer picture of your situation and help you make informed decisions moving forward.

Exploring Potential Penalties

A DUI conviction can lead to severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Ask your attorney about the potential consequences you might face. What are the mandatory penalties for a DUI conviction in New Jersey? Are there any factors that could lead to harsher penalties, such as prior convictions or refusal to take a breathalyzer test? Knowing the possible outcomes will help you prepare for what lies ahead and assess the seriousness of your situation.

Evaluating Legal Options and Defenses

It’s essential to explore all possible defenses and legal strategies available to you. During your consultation, ask the attorney about the potential defenses in your case. Are there any procedural errors or issues with the evidence that could be challenged? Can the reliability of the breathalyzer or field sobriety tests be questioned? Understanding the various defenses and legal strategies will help you and your attorney build a robust defense plan.

Assessing the Attorney’s Experience and Success Rate

The attorney’s experience and track record can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Ask about their experience in handling DUI cases specifically in New Jersey. How many DUI cases have they defended? What is their success rate in getting charges reduced or dismissed? An experienced attorney with a proven track record will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of your case and provide you with the best possible defense.

Understanding the Costs and Fees

Legal representation can be expensive, and it’s important to understand the financial aspects of hiring an attorney. Ask about the attorney’s fees and the overall cost of your defense. Do they charge a flat fee or an hourly rate? Are there additional costs for things like expert witnesses or investigations? Understanding the costs involved will help you budget for your defense and avoid any unexpected financial burdens.

Learning About the Legal Process and Timeline

Navigating the legal process can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with it. Ask your attorney to explain the legal process and the typical timeline for a DUI case in New Jersey. What are the key stages of the process, from arraignment to trial? How long can you expect each stage to take? Having a clear understanding of the legal process will help you stay informed and prepared as your case progresses.

Ask The Right Questions & Find The Best Attorney For You

Facing DUI charges can be a daunting experience, but asking the right questions during your initial consultation with a New Jersey attorney can make a significant difference. By understanding the specifics of your charges, potential penalties, legal options, attorney’s experience, costs, and the legal process, you can make informed decisions and work towards the best possible outcome for your case. Remember, being proactive and well-informed is your best defense in navigating the complexities of a DUI charge.

Legitimate and reasonable questions are not an issue when talking to an attorney.  If the attorney hesitates in answering any of these valid questions, the person charged with DUI should be guided accordingly. Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law welcomes these legitimate inquiries and will answer these questions in a willing and forthright manner. The more a person charged with DUI learns about a law firm, the easier it will be to make an informed choice of the appropriate DUI attorney to represent their legal interests.