Experienced New Jersey DWI Attorney Aggressively Defending Clients Against DWI Charges

EXPERIENCED NEW JERSEY DWI ATTORNEY AGGRESSIVELY DEFENDING CLIENTS AGAINST DWI CHARGES

A DWI conviction can mean losing your driving privileges and more importantly, your freedom. Your personal and professional life is at stake, so it’s important to put your case in the hands of an attorney with the experience to successfully fight your charges. Unlike other attorneys, Steven Hernandez can identify flaws in the technical evidence that is often used to convict DWI defendants that can weaken the prosecution’s case against you. Steven Hernandez does not expect his clients to plead guilty to a crime they did not commit. He is prepared to mount a strong defense to beat the charges and secure your freedom. There is no substitute for experience and training, which is why hundreds of clients have turned to The Hernandez Law Firm for help with their DWI cases. If you are facing DWI charges, take the first step towards protecting your rights by contacting The Hernandez Law Firm as soon as possible.

IS DWI A CRIMINAL CHARGE IN NEW JERSEY?

In New Jersey, DWI is classified as a traffic offense, regardless of the number of prior violations. However, this does not mean that a DWI is similar to a traffic ticket. Don’t let this classification trick you into thinking that a DWI is not serious. DWIs may not be criminal charges, but they carry serious legal penalties that should not be taken lightly. A conviction can lead to license suspension, jail time, fines, community service, and many of the same penalties, some of which that are often imposed on criminal offenders.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A DWI ARREST?

Many people are nervous and scared after being arrested for DWI because they aren’t sure what happens next. For this reason, it’s important to know what to expect after a DWI arrest so you can prepare yourself. The first step in the legal process is the arraignment, which is a court hearing that takes place shortly after your DWI arrest. During this hearing, the judge will read the charges that have been filed against you and provide you with an overview of the penalties you may face. A lot of traffic cases are resolved with plea bargains, but prosecutors are not allowed to offer these deals in DWI cases. This means you have two choices: plead guilty and accept the full consequences of a DWI conviction or plead not guilty and continue to fight for your freedom. It’s possible that your charges will be dismissed before your case makes it to trial. However, this typically only occurs when there is an issue with the prosecution’s evidence that has severely weakened the case. Don’t expect to see a jury of your peers if your case makes it to trial. The judge presiding over your case will also determine your fate after both sides have had an opportunity to present their evidence. Don’t go through this complex legal process alone—let New Jersey Expert DWI Lawyer Steven Hernandez help.

WHEN SHOULD YOU CONTACT A DWI ATTORNEY?

Every minute matters in a DWI case. If you are facing DWI charges, it’s best to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you hire an attorney, the sooner your attorney can start defending your rights and working towards the best possible outcome in your case. Having an attorney on your side alleviates some of the stress of navigating the legal system. An attorney will stand by you throughout every step in the legal process making sure you understand the latest developments in your case. Your attorney will also explain your legal options and help you decide what’s best for you and your family. From the start to the finish of your DWI case, your attorney will serve as your greatest ally and advocate. Don’t attempt to fight these charges without the help of a knowledgeable DWI attorney.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU GET A SECOND DUI IN NEW JERSEY?

Defendants with one DWI conviction on their record from the last 10 years will face enhanced penalties if they are convicted for the second time. The court can order second-time offenders to pay up to $1,000 in fines if they are convicted. These repeat offenders will also face at least 48 hours behind bars, with a maximum jail sentence of 90 days. A second DWI conviction can lead to mandatory 30 days of community service and a two-year license suspension. After the suspension is over, second-time offenders will need to install and use an ignition interlock device for a period of one to three years. These penalties, combined with the increased insurance rates, can affect every aspect of a second-time offender’s life.

WHAT IS THE PENALTY FOR MULTIPLE DWI’S IN NEW JERSEY?

A DWI conviction can carry many different penalties, including jail time, fines, license suspension, community service, and increased auto insurance rates. A number of factors can affect a defendant’s sentence, including their prior record. Having a DWI conviction on your record can lead to enhanced penalties if you are convicted of this offense again within 10 years. Repeat offenders may spend more time behind bars, pay larger fines, and lose their driving privileges for a longer period of time. If you are not a first-time offender, it’s in your best interest to seek legal representation as soon as you are charged with DWI. Hiring an attorney may help you avoid some of these serious legal penalties.