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

Posted on by Andrew Maze

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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FAQ

If you’ve been in a car accident, seek medical help first, then contact an Auto Accident Attorney in Edison Township. The Law Office of Andrew S. Maze can help document evidence, communicate with insurers, and pursue compensation for injuries and damages.

An Injury Lawyer in Middlesex County, NJ helps you file claims, negotiate settlements, and represent your case in court. The firm ensures your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

We handle personal injury, auto accidents, truck accidents, DUI/DWI defense, slip and fall, and workplace injury cases throughout Middlesex County and Edison Township, NJ.

In New Jersey, DUI (driving under the influence) and DWI (driving while intoxicated) are treated similarly. A DUI Defense Attorney in Middlesex County, NJ builds your defense, challenges test results, and seeks reduced penalties or dismissal when possible.

Most Car Wreck Attorneys in Middlesex County, NJ, including Andrew Maze, work on a contingency basis, you pay no upfront fees. The firm only collects a fee if they win or settle your case successfully.

Settlement times vary based on the case’s complexity and insurance negotiations. Most auto accident injury cases in Edison Township settle within a few months, though serious claims may take longer if litigation is needed.

Bring accident reports, medical records, photographs, witness contact details, and any insurance correspondence. This helps your Accident Lawyer in Middlesex County, NJ assess your case quickly and accurately.

Yes, under New Jersey’s comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages if you were less than 50% at fault. A skilled Car Accident Lawyer in Edison Township can help determine liability and maximize your compensation.

Not always. Many personal injury claims handled by our Auto Accident Lawyers in Edison Township are settled out of court through negotiations. Court proceedings occur only if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Simply call or submit a free consultation request online. Our Injury Lawyers will review your case, explain your options, and guide you through the legal process step by step.