Answering Your DWI Questions
If you have been charged with a drunk driving offense, what you do not know about New Jersey DWI laws can have serious repercussions. Many motorists have misconceptions about their rights and the extent of their driving privileges, which can lead them to make costly mistakes when they are arrested on DWI charges.
Since 1985, our legal team at The Law Office of Mallon & Tranger has championed drivers’ rights at all stages of the legal process. When you retain us, we will act quickly to defend your case and tailor a legal strategy according to the circumstances surrounding your DWI matter.
To better serve you, we are including these answers to questions our clients commonly asked about DWI charges.
How does New Jersey’s zero tolerance law affect minors?
Unlike drivers who are over the age of 21, minors can be charged with a violation if alcohol is detected in their system. Adults with a detected blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or above can be charged with DUI or DWI. For minors, a BAC of .01 can result in a charge. Young drivers convicted can face these penalties: postponed or lost driving privileges, community service and enrollment in educational programs. Underage drinkers may face a variety of other charges as well.
What penalties can first-time offenders face for a DWI in New Jersey?
Drivers who have been convicted of operating a passenger vehicle with a BAC between .08 and 1.0 can suffer serious financial penalties and punishments. Financial penalties include insurance surcharges, court-imposed fines and administrative fees. First-time offenders lose driving privileges, may have to serve jail time, and are required to undergo a drug or alcohol evaluation and attend classes at the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center. The driver is responsible for the costs associated with classes and assessments.
If you are convicted of a first-time DWI and cannot pay the fines, you risk losing your driving privileges for an indefinite time and having your wages garnished.
Do the penalties increase for repeat offenders?
The penalties for a repeat DWI conviction are severe. The consequences of a second or third DWI offense are drastically increased minimum fines, surcharges, community service and jail time.
What happens if I refuse a Breathalyzer test?
When New Jersey drivers sign their driver’s license, they agree to take a drug or alcohol breath test when law enforcement requires it. If you are pulled over, you could be arrested if you refuse to submit to this test. Other possible penalties for refusal include temporary loss of license and fines.
How can an attorney help me with a DWI case?
You may think that representing yourself in court and accepting a guilty plea for a DWI will save you money and time. However, this decision can have costly consequences.
Our attorneys have a substantial understanding of New Jersey’s DWI laws. We know how to use the law to reduce the impact that the case has on your future. We have negotiated favorable plea deals on behalf of our clients, enabling them to protect their driving privileges. If the prosecution seeks strong penalties, our lawyers will mount a defense to challenge the evidence.
Get The Skilled And Aggressive Representation You Deserve. Contact Us.
When you contact us for your free consultation, we will respond to your request quickly because we know that your situation is urgent. You can easily reach us online or at 732-702-0333. From our offices in Freehold and Point Pleasant, we serve clients throughout New Jersey.