April 1, 2025
Facing a DWI charge can bring about overwhelming feelings of uncertainty, regret, and fear. Making the choice to drive after consuming alcohol or other substances is a decision that can profoundly impact your life in ways you may not have foreseen. This experience can leave you questioning your judgment, worrying about the legal and financial consequences, and unsure how to navigate this challenging situation. It’s important to know that you are not alone and that there are steps you can take to address the charges, learn from this experience, and work toward a better outcome.
Seeking guidance and support can make a significant difference as you move forward. New Jersey is among the strictest states regarding its DWI policies and laws. This charge may result in fines and suspension of your license. But you don’t have to accept these outcomes as foregone conclusions.
When you contact the caring lawyers at The Hernandez Law Firm, P.C., our legal team takes the time to review all aspects of your charges with you before drafting the defense that works best for your case. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Call us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help. Schedule at 732-582-5076
We want New Jersey roads to be safe for all motorists, which means a zero-tolerance policy for DWI offenders. You should know some things about getting a DWI in New Jersey.
New Jersey has strict laws for deterring drivers from driving under the force of drugs or alcohol. Some of the penalties include:
First offense:
Second offense:
After conviction, you must equip your vehicle with an ignition interlock device. The requirements for these devices include:
First Offense:
Second Offense:
Third Offense:
Currently, three tests are used to determine the sobriety of drivers suspected of DWI in New Jersey. They are the Horizontal Nystagmus Gaze Test (HGN), the Walk and Turn Test, and the One-Leg Stand Test. The officer must comply with specific instructions when administering these tests to drivers.
Some police departments can also administer breathalyzer tests on the scene, so drivers may be asked to do that. However, there has been a great deal of controversy over the accuracy of the test. An experienced DWI attorney could contest the test results if they were conducted incorrectly.
DWI cases don’t always involve alcohol or illegal drugs. You can also be charged if you are driving under the influence of medications for medical conditions. The law does not care if you have a prescription or are under a doctor’s care. The only thing law enforcement cares about is if you were driving in such a manner that you were impaired and appeared to present a danger to yourself or others.
Law enforcement has various testing methods to determine whether the medications in your system meet the standards for legal intoxication:
New Jersey is an implied consent state. By being on the road, you have given your unspoken consent to be given a breath test if requested by law enforcement should you be stopped. It is crucial to meet specific requirements to use these tests as evidence and ensure their validity. Consulting an experienced professional is highly recommended. At The Hernandez Law Firm, P.C., a DWI attorney will be assigned to your case and available to answer any questions.
Keep going if you are unsuccessful in your bid to get the charges dropped. Sometimes, DWI charges are reduced to reckless driving charges, also known as “wet reckless driving” charges. Usually, your DWI lawyer will help you enter into a plea deal to get the charges reduced. A plea deal means agreeing to plead guilty to a less severe charge (in this case, reckless driving) to avoid a lengthy trial.
An arrest is always frightening. It may feel like doors are closing all around you, but hope remains. With a skilled and knowledgeable DWI lawyer from The Hernandez Law Firm, P.C. on your side, you can avoid conviction or reduce the penalties. Don’t let one mistake define your life. Call 732-582-5076 to schedule your free consultation.
(732) 582-5076
