New Jersey DWI FAQ
Is there any way to challenge my DWI charge?
Yes, there are many ways to challenge your DWI charge. The traffic stop must be supported by reasonable suspicion. The police officers must have probable cause to believe that you are intoxicated to conduct the field sobriety tests and breathalyzer test. The field sobriety tests can be challenged. The breathalyzer test can be challenged, for example, based on the breath test operator being unlicensed or the breathalyzer machine malfunctioning. These are just a few of the tactics to contest DWI charges.
What is the legal limit in New Jersey?
The legal limit in New Jersey is a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .08 %
What are the State Motor Vehicle surcharges in New Jersey for DWI convictions?
For a first and second offense, the surcharges are $1,000 a year for three years. For a third offense, the surcharges are $1,500 a year for three years.
Am I entitled to an attorney when charged with a DWI?
A DWI in New Jersey is not considered a criminal offense, it is considered a motor vehicle violation. Because it is a "quasi-criminal" offense, you are not entitled to an attorney when you are stopped, subjected to sobriety testing, and arrested for a DWI. However, you should contact an attorney once you are charged with a DWI in order to contest any issues relating to your vehicle stop or testing.
Am I entitled to a jury trial on my DWI charge?
No, you will be tried in front of a municipal court judge in the municipality you have been charged in.
Are roadblocks constitutional?
Generally, roadblocks are constitutional if certain procedures are followed by law enforcement officers. Under State v. Kirk, the court held that temporary road block set up by exercise of absolute, unbridled discretion of officers in field is violative of State Constitutional provision against unreasonable seizure; however, if certain procedures set forth, ensuring supervisory control of checkpoints and warnings to motorists, are carefully followed, any constitutional objections will be overcome.
New Jersey DWI Lawyer Blog - Monmouth Coutny DWI Defense
- New Jersey DWI Police Blotter: Essex and Monmouth County Drunk Driving Arrests As a drunken driving defense attorney representing New Jersey motorists charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, I have handled hundreds ....
- NJ Drunk Driving Defense Update: Financial Impact of a DWI Conviction in New Jersey Driving while intoxicated, DWI or driving under the influence, whatever term you use it all adds up to lost driving privileges and extensive fines, ....
- New Jersey DWI Police Blotter: Monmouth County Drunk Driving Arrests and Summonses More than a half million people live in Monmouth County, NJ. At 1,300 people per square mile, the number of DWI arrests can be staggering. Police ....
