A driving while intoxicated charge can be life-changing, regardless of whether it’s your first or second offense. A second offense, however, can have even greater consequences. If you’re dealing with a potential DUI charge, and it’s not your first, it’s important to know what your potential consequences may be.
What is Considered a DUI in New Jersey?
The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) level in New Jersey is 0.08. This means anything that registers at 0.08 or higher can lead to a DUI charge.
What are the Consequences of a Second DUI in New Jersey?
If convicted of a DUI for the second time in New Jersey, you could be met with the following consequences:
- Jail time of between 2-90 days
- Legal fines of between $500-$1,000
- A suspended driver’s license between 1-2 years
- Required detainment at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) for 48 hours
- Requirement of an ignition interlock device for between 2-4 years
This doesn’t account for the potential loss of employment due to court fees or a tarnished criminal record. People with a professional license, such as commercial drivers or teachers could also lose their license with too many DUI convictions.
The Expensive Costs of a Second DWI
Being convicted of a DUI is costly. Some of the costs you may incur include:
- An increase in auto insurance premiums
- A $3,000 fine to be paid to the state of New Jersey
- A $50 charge to the Violent Crimes Compensation Fund
- A $75 charge to the Safe Neighborhood Services Fund
- A $100 charge to the Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund
- A $100 charge to the Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund
- A $350 charge to the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
These costs in addition to the potential loss of employment can be a big hit financially. A second DUI may also require the services of a lawyer, which aren’t included in these costs.
Second DWI Defense Options
It may be in your best interests to hire a DWI defense lawyer to help you build a defense against the charges. There may be some defense options available that could reduce your sentencing or fines. If it has been over 10 years since your first DWI, you may be charged as a first-time DWI offender.
A second-time DWI differs from a first-time DWI offense. The first time that you’re charged with a DWI, your BAC level makes a difference when it comes to your consequences. If it’s your second DWI, your BAC no longer matters as long as you were over 0.08%. The Post-Conviction Relief program may be an option for some offenders. However, the details of the program vary and depend on the factors involved in your case.
The first thing to do after being charged with a DWI for the second time is to reach out to a DWI defense lawyer. It’s important for a lawyer to evaluate the specifics of your case to help you build a defense that best serves your interests. Ignoring a repeat DWI charge can lead to costly legal consequences.
Contact an Experienced Cherry Hill DWI Defense Attorney About Your Drunk Driving Charges in New Jersey
Have you been charged with a DWI or DUI offense in New Jersey? A drunk driving conviction could leave you with a permanent record, and it could result in your driver’s license being suspended for a very long time. That is why it is imperative that you speak with a qualified DWI defense lawyer about your case. The Law Offices of Michele Finizio represents clients charged with drunk driving, breath test refusal, and related offenses in Evesham Township, Mount Laurel, Willingboro, Pemberton, and throughout New Jersey. Call (609) 230-0374 or fill out our confidential online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office located at 9 E Main St, Moorestown, NJ 08057, in addition to an office located in Cherry Hill, NJ.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
