What Are Penalties for a DWI First Offense in NJ?

New Jersey imposes strict penalties for DWI that often have both short and long term consequences. Even a conviction for a DWI first offense in NJ can haunt you for many years. However, with the help of an experienced NJ DWI attorney, you may be able to reduce potential penalties depending upon your blood alcohol content level at the time.

DWI First Offense in NJ: BAC 0.08% – 0.09%

In New Jersey, driving with a blood alcohol content level of 0.08% or above is considered drunk driving. However, keep in mind that even if your BAC is under 0.08%, an officer may still charge you with DWI if that officer finds that your driving was impaired in any way. Penalties for a first time DWI offense with a BAC between 0.08% to 0.09% include:

• $250 to $400 in fines
• Up to 30 days imprisonment
• 3 year automobile surcharge of $1,000/year
• Two 6-hour sessions in an intoxicated resource center
• $100 DUI enforcement surcharge
• Up to 1 year of driving with an ignition interlock device on your vehicle

DWI First Offense in NJ: BAC 0.10% – 0.14%

The higher your BAC level the harsher the penalties are, even for first time DWI offenses. Penalties for driving with a BAC between 0.10% to 0.14% include:

• 7 months to 1 year suspension of your driver’s license
• $300 to $500 in fines
• Up to 30 days imprisonment
• 3 year automobile surcharge of $1,000/year
• Two 6-hour sessions in an intoxicated resource center
• $100 DUI enforcement surcharge
• Up to 1 year of driving with an ignition interlock device on your vehicle

DWI First Offense in NJ: BAC 0.15% or Higher

Driving with a BAC of 0.15% or higher will result in the required installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. This device will remain in any vehicle that you own and operate for the entirety of your driver’s license suspension period, as well as up to 1 year after your driving rights are restored. Penalties for first time DWI offense with a BAC of 0.15% or higher include:

• 7 months to 1 year suspension of your driver’s license
• Required ignition interlock device installation on your vehicles
• $300 to $500 in fines
• Up to 30 days imprisonment
• 3 year automobile surcharge of $1,000/year
• Two 6-hour sessions in an intoxicated resource center
• $100 DUI enforcement surcharge
• Up to 1 year of driving with an ignition interlock device on your vehicle

Penalties for Driving in a School Zone

If your first time DWI offense occurs within 1,000 feet from a school zone, your penalties will further increase. If this applies to you, speak to your attorney to figure out the potential penalties that you may face.

Speak to a NJ DWI Lawyer Today

DWI charges in NJ come with harsh penalties and long-term consequences. An experienced DWI lawyer can help you build a solid defense and protect your rights. Contact Samuel Louis Sachs Esq LLC.