Get An Aggressive Defense From Skilled Essex County DUI/DWI Lawyers
Being pulled over and arrested for intoxicated driving in Newark, East Orange, Irvington, West Orange or other parts of Essex County can be a truly overwhelming experience. You may fear for your future. You need a skilled Essex County DUI lawyer to guide you through this challenging time and the New Jersey court system.
Turn to Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law for strong DWI defense services backed by over 20 years of combined experience. We are ready to advocate for you and your future aggressively.
Our New Jersey criminal defense team, which includes two former prosecutors, has a deep understanding of how to fight drunk driving charges in Essex County. Reach out to our firm today for a free case evaluation.
What If My BAC Was Below The Legal Limit?
In Essex County and the rest of New Jersey, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for most drivers is 0.08. However, testing below this limit does not mean you’re in the clear. There are two primary paths for prosecutors to prove drunk driving: showing you were at or above the legal limit, or demonstrating impairment. Impairment can be illustrated in many ways, including police observations and field sobriety tests.
What To Know About Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are assessments often used by police officers during DUI stops to gauge impairment levels in drivers. In Essex County, these tests can include:
- One-leg stand
- Horizontal gaze nystagmus
- Walk-and-turn
You can refuse to take such tests. Consenting to such tests and failing them could provide significant evidence against you. Having an Essex County DUI attorney in your corner who understands the law and science behind these tests is crucial. Our team is here to help you address any issues related to field sobriety tests in your case.
How Much Jail Time Could You Get For DUI In Essex County?
First, you should be aware that New Jersey uses the terms DWI (driving while intoxicated) and DUI (driving under the influence) interchangeably. Your freedom is at stake in Essex County DWI cases, as jail time is a possible penalty. The amount you could face varies based on whether it is a first or subsequent offense.
- First offense: Up to 30 days
- Second offense: two to 90 days
- Third or more offense: 180 days (potentially reduced to 90 days with rehab)
Let us fight for your freedom. Our lawyers can explore all available options for helping you stay out of jail.
The Financial Consequences Of An Essex County DWI
A drunk conviction in Essex County could greatly impact your finances. It can lead to:
- Fines ranging from $250 to $1,000, depending on the offense
- A $1,000 to $1,500 per year automobile insurance surcharge for three years
- A $100 Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund surcharge
- A $100 Intoxicated Driving Program fee
- A $100 Motor Vehicle Commission restoration fee
- A $75 Safe and Secure Community Program fee
These costs can add up quickly. Additionally, a conviction can affect your insurance rates and employment opportunities.
When DUI charges are threatening your financial stability, our team is here for you.
How Long Could You Lose Your License?
Your DUI case could potentially deprive you of your ability to drive. License impacts of a conviction include:
- First offense with BAC under 0.10: A three-month ignition interlock requirement
- First offense with BAC 0.10 or higher: A seven to 10-month ignition interlock requirement
- First offense with BAC over 0.15: A four to six-month driver license suspension, plus a nine to 15-month ignition interlock requirement following restoration
- Second offense: A one to two-year suspension, plus a two- to four-year ignition interlock requirement after restoration
- Third offense: An eight-year suspension, plus two to four years of mandatory ignition use following restoration
Our Essex County DWI lawyers stand ready to protect your driving privileges.
Will A Conviction Go On My Record?
If you are convicted of intoxicated driving in Essex County, it will typically not go on your criminal record. This is because, under New Jersey law, DWI/DUI is a traffic violation, not a misdemeanor or felony criminal offense. However, it will permanently blemish your driving record. Reach out to us today for guidance on protecting your driving record against DWI charges.
New Jersey’s Zero Tolerance Law
Drivers under 21 face stricter rules than other motorists when it comes to alcohol. It’s illegal for them to drive with a BAC over .01. Violating this zero-tolerance law can lead to driving privilege postponement, community service, and a driving/safety class requirement. We stand up for college students and other individuals accused of underage drunk driving in Essex County.
Defending You Against Essex County DUI/DWI Charges
There is a wide range of strategies for challenging DWI charges in Essex County. These include:
- Contesting the validity of field sobriety test results
- Questioning the accuracy of breathalyzer results
- Arguing that police didn’t follow proper protocol during the stop or arrest
The defense options available to you depend on your specific circumstances. Our knowledgeable team can analyze your case, advise you on what the best path forward may be and fight tirelessly for you.
Get In Touch Now For A Free Consultation
You don’t have to face Essex County drunk driving charges alone. Let us protect your future. Fill out our contact form or call us at 201-212-4532 to set up a free consultation.