If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol addiction or substance abuse, driving under the influence (DUI) can lead to serious legal problems. Seeking help before a situation escalates is essential if treatment is needed. It’s important to speak with an experienced DUI attorney in New Jersey.

DWI- Driving while intoxicated

DUI penalties for the State of New Jersey vary based on the number of offenses:

First Offender

Penalties include a $250-$400 fine and up to 30 days in jail. You may face:

– A driver’s license suspension for at least three months.

– Forfeiture of your driving privileges for at least seven months and no longer than one year.

– An ignition interlock device for six months to one year.

– A $1,000 per year auto insurance surcharge for three years.

– Mandatory attendance at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center. (IDRC) for either 12 hours or 48 hours. Underage DUI referral equals scheduled to 12 hours of IDRC.

– A compulsory assessment for drug and alcohol abuse.

– Between $300-$500 in fines.

Second Offender

Penalties include:

– A license suspension of 2 years

– Requirement to install an ignition interlock device while license is suspended and following return of license.

-3,000 in automobile insurance surchargers over 3 years.

– Minimum fines of $500 and a maximum of $1,000.

– A minimum of 30 days of community service.

– A jail sentence of 2- 90 days.

– A minimum of 2 years of license suspension.

-Sentenced to 48 hours IDRC in place of jail or sentenced to a 12-hour IDRC if jail is served.

– Additional penalties may include payments to the Safe Neighborhood Services Fund, the Violent Crimes Compensation Fund, the Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund, and the Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund.

Multiple Offender:

-Sentenced to either 12 hours or 48 hours of IDRC.

– Multiple Offender Recommendations are needed for license restoration.

3rd and Subsequent Offender

Penalties include:

– License suspension for 10 years.

– A 180-day jail sentence.

– Minimum of $1,000 fine.

– 90 days of community service.

– 12-48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center.

– $4,500 in automobile insurance surcharges over three years.

-Multiple Offender Recommendations are needed for license restoration.

– An ignition interlock device.

-If the assessment indicates treatment, IDRC shall monitor it for one year after the client begins treatment.

If you or a loved one is facing challenges with alcoholism or substance use, Overcome Wellness and Recovery in Lakewood, NJ, offers individualized treatment programs that are designed to help sustain long-term sobriety and provide the support needed for recovery.