Consequences of a New Jersey DWI

Brought to you by New Jersey DWI Lawyers at Garces & Grabler, P.C.

Consequences of DWI in New Jersey

One of the most serious traffic infractions that an individual can be charged with is Driving While Intoxicated, otherwise known as a DWI. Driving While Intoxicated falls under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50 and carries with it serious consequences.

1^st Offense of DWI

If an individual is convicted of a DWI for a first offense, they:

• face a monetary fine up to $825
• face a term of imprisonment of not more than 30 days
• face no less than 12 hours but no more than 48 hours at the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC – mandated alcohol management classes)
• shall forfeit their right to operate a motor vehicle for a period of not less than 7 months but no more than 1 year

2^nd Offense of DWI

Unfortunately, some individuals are charged with a subsequent Driving While Intoxicated. If a motorist is charged with a 2^nd DWI infraction, they are subjected to more severe consequences, some of which are non-negotiable.

If an individual is convicted of a 2^nd DWI, they:

• face a monetary fine up to $1,000
• shall be ordered to perform community service for a period of 30 days
• sentenced to at least 2 and up to 90 days Jail, which cannot be served through probation, nor suspended

Furthermore, the Defendant shall forfeit their right to operate a motor vehicle for a mandatory period of 2 years.

In addition, for a 2^nd violation of DWI an individual shall be required to install an ignition interlock device. More information about ignition interlock devices can be found on our website.

3^rd Offense of DWI

An individual who is charged with a 3^rd Driving While Intoxicated faces extremely dire penal consequences. If an individual is convicted of a 3^rd DWI, they:

• face a minimum monetary fine of $1,000
• shall be sentenced to a term of 180 days in County Jail (of which 90 days must be served prior to making application to serve remaining 90 days at an IDRC approved inpatient alcohol rehabilitation)
• and shall forfeit their right to operate a motor vehicle for a mandatory period of 10 years

In addition, for a 3^rd or subsequent violation of DWI an individual shall be required to install an ignition interlock device.

If you or someone you know has been charged with a DWI in New Jersey, contact the New Jersey DWI Lawyers at Garces & Grabler, P.C.