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How Does BAC Affect the Penalties of a First-Offense DWI in New Jersey?

If you have recently been charged with a first-offense DWI in New Jersey, it is of the utmost importance that you read on and reach out to our firm to learn how we can help. There are multiple penalties you may face, and they increase in severity in accordance with your blood alcohol content at the time of your arrest. Here are some of the questions you may have regarding first-offense DWIs in New Jersey:

What happens if I am charged with a first-offense DWI with a BAC between .08% and .10%?

If this is your first time being charged with a DWI, you may face very severe penalties, despite New Jersey recently changing its DWI laws for first-time offenders. Under the new law, set to go into effect December 1, you may face the following penalties for a first-offense DWI with a BAC between .08% and .10%:

  • A license forfeiture of up to 30 days
  • Up to 30 days in jail
  • A fine ranging between $250-$500
  • Up to 48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC)
  • The installation of the ignition interlock device for up to 6 months

What are the consequences of a first-offense DWI with a BAC between .10% and .15%?

For a DWI offense with a BAC between .10% and .15%, you may face the following consequences:

  • A 45-day loss of license
  • Up to 30 days in jail
  • A fine ranging between $250-$500
  • Up to 48 hours in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC)
  • The installation of the ignition interlock device at your own cost for up to 1 year

How long will I lose my license for a New Jersey first-offense DWI with a BAC higher than .15%?

If you were arrested with a BAC above .15%, you may lose your license for up to 90 days. Rather obviously, this is enough to end your career, land you in jail, and more. Do not let this happen. Here are the penalties you may face for a BAC of over .15%:

  • Up to 30 days in jail
  • A fine ranging from $250-$500
  • Up to 48 hours spent in the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC)
  • The installation of the ignition interlock device for up to 18 months

Contact our experienced New Jersey firm

Our firm understands how serious criminal and personal injury cases are. We are prepared to guide you towards a favorable outcome because we believe false accusations or preventable injuries should never cause a person harm. This is why those who require experienced legal counsel in New Jersey should do themselves a favor and contact The Law Office of Andrew S. Maze today for any criminal and personal injury matters.

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