In New Jersey, you can be convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI) if, at the time of a traffic stop, your blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeds 0.08. A DWI arrest is far from the worst-case scenario that can happen at a traffic stop; things can be much worse if you cause an accident or have illegal drugs in your possession. Even with a relatively simple DWI case, a conviction can affect your life in the long-term, and so can the steps you must go through to avoid getting convicted of DWI. The best way to reduce or avoid these complications after a DWI arrest is to hire a New Jersey DWI lawyer.
Restricted Driving Privileges
One of the most common DUI penalties the court suspends your driver’s license, and in some cases, it also requires you to keep an ignition interlock device installed in your car after your license is reinstated. The length of time that your license stays suspended or that you must use the ignition interlock device depends on your BAC at the time of the arrest, your prior history of DWI, and whether you caused an accident, among other factors. Commuting to work and getting to all the other places you are used to going requires planning, and it makes you appreciate being able to drive anywhere you want anytime you want.
The Financial Burden
Almost everything is unaffordable these days, and a DWI arrest makes the financial burden worse. The court may order you to pay a fine, and if you get probation, you will also bear the costs associated with it. If your driver’s license is suspended, the costs of all the rideshare rides you will need to take will really add up. Worst of all, if you must serve a jail sentence, you will be missing out on income from work.
A Criminal Record
DWI arrests and convictions appear on your record in background checks for employment and housing. Having a felony conviction on your record, for DWI or any other offense, not only makes it harder to find employment, but also restricts your voting rights and your right to own firearms.
Family Court Issues
If you have minor children, then a DWI arrest can interfere with your relationship with them. If you have a court-ordered parenting plan, the court may modify it so that, for several months, you can only have supervised parenting time, which means that another adult (usually one of your parents) must always be present during your parenting time. Even if you do not lose your unsupervised parenting time, transporting your children to and from your house will be more difficult if your driver’s license is suspended.
Civil Court Cases
If, while driving drunk, you cause an accident that involves injuries, the injured people can file a personal injury lawsuit against you in civil court. Being a defendant in a civil lawsuit is stressful and time-consuming, not to mention expensive.
Contact a DWI Defense Lawyer
A skilled criminal defense attorney specializing in drunk driving cases can help you avoid getting a conviction for DWI or DUI. Contact the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall to discuss your situation.
