Understanding the potential penalties for each level of DUI offense can help individuals make informed decisions and seek legal advice if faced with such charges.
Driving under the influence (DUI) is taken very seriously in the state of New Jersey. There are strict penalties in place that are meant to deter people from making the decision to get behind the wheel after having too much to drink and to punish those who do. If you are caught driving while intoxicated, the consequences of a DUI conviction will escalate with each subsequent offense. It’s important for drivers to understand the potential ramifications of a first-time DUI conviction and what the most common penalties are for people would are found guilty of a DUI. It is also important to speak with an experienced attorney about DUI penalties that you could face if convicted of driving under the influence in New Jersey. They will be able to advise you on the next best steps.
Common Penalties For First Offense DUI in New Jersey
Even if you are a first-time offender of a DUI in New Jersey, it is considered a serious matter. There are a number of possible penalties you could face. The most common penalties for a first-time offender are:
1. Fines and Fees: It is very common to face paying a fine of some kind if you are convicted of a DUI. For first-time offenders that have a BAC of 0.08% to 0.099%, the fines range from $250 to $400. If you have a BAC of 0.10% or higher then the fines range from $300 to $500. You will likely have additional fees to pay as well related to the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) fee, and state surcharges.
2. License Suspension: Getting your license suspended is another very common consequence of a DUI conviction. If you have a BAC of 0.08% to 0.10% then your license suspension would be for three months. If your BAC is 0.10% or higher your license suspension could be seven to twelve months.
3. Jail Time: It is less common for first-time offenders of a DUI to end up in jail. Often they face probation instead of jail, however, it is possible for those convicted of their first DUI to face up to 30 days in jail, depending on the circumstances of the incident.
4. Drug & Alcohol Counseling: In New Jersey, people convicted of a DUI are required to complete a program at the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center that lasts for two days. Offenders must pay for the cost of the program.
5. Ignition Interlock Device (IID): If you are convicted of a DUI in New Jersey, even for a first-time conviction, you will have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle. The length of time the device is on your vehicle will be determined by your BAC. If it is between 0.08% and 0.099% the device will last for 3-5 months, for a BAC of 0.10%-0.15% or higher it will last for 7 months, and if you have a BAC of 0.15% or higher the device will be installed for 9-15 months.
It’s Important To Speak With A Lawyer About Your First-Time DUI Conviction
DUI offenses in New Jersey come with serious consequences, even for first-time offenders. The state’s strict penalties reflect its commitment to reducing drunk driving and its associated risks. Understanding the potential penalties for each level of DUI offense can help individuals make informed decisions and seek legal advice if faced with such charges. Remember, the best way to avoid these severe penalties is to never drive under the influence.
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