A New Jersey Drunk Driving Conviction Stays On Your Record
Most Americans understand that a drunk driving conviction is a big deal. If someone does not think it is a big deal, they should think otherwise. The consequences and penalties of a DWI conviction can forever impact all aspects of your life. One of the many reasons why a New Jersey drunk driving conviction should be considered very serious is because it can never be expunged.
DWI Convicted Once, But Forever On Your Record
Your driving and criminal record tremendously impacts all parts of your life. At the least, it can define who you are, what you can do, and the opportunities you will have in your lifetime. This is why it is so important to keep it clean – especially free from drunk driving convictions.
Having a drunk driving conviction permanently on your record can wreak great havoc. For example, you may not be able to get insurance, and if you do, your premiums will most likely be very high. A DWI on your record could also impact your ability to work – especially if you are a commercial driver and you drive for a living. In some cases, if a commercial driver is convicted of a DWI, he or she may never be able to find employment again with trucking companies.
The bottom line is that a drunk driving conviction in New Jersey will always stay on your record and follow you for the rest of your life. If you get a drunk driving conviction at the age of 21, the charge will still be on your driving record when you are 91.
Other Serious Consequences of a Drunk Driving Conviction
Even if the fact that a DWI conviction will forever stay on your record doesn’t seem like it is such a big deal, the other penalties and consequences may change your mind.
1st Offense:
- A fine of $300 – $500
- Imprisonment for up to 30 days
- A license suspension between 7 months and 1 year
- A minimum of 6 hours a day for 2 consecutive days in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
- An automobile insurance surcharge of $1,000 a year for 3 years
2nd Offense:
- A fine of $500 – $1,000
- Imprisonment for at least 48 consecutive hours, and up to 90 days
- 2-year license suspension
- 48 consecutive hours detainment in a regional Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
- An automobile insurance surcharge of $1,000 a year for 3 years
- Installation of an ignition interlock device for a period of 1 year to 3 years after license restoration
3rd Offense:
- A fine of $1,000
- Imprisonment of 180 days
- 10-year license suspension
- Detainment in an in-patient alcoholism treatment program
- A fee to be paid to the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center dependent upon court sentence
- An automobile insurance surcharge of $1,500 a year for 3 years
- Installation of an ignition interlock device for a period of 1 year to 3 years after license restoration
Call a Drunk Driving Attorney in New Jersey
If you or someone you know has been issued DWI citation or arrested for drunk driving in New Jersey, an experienced attorney can help. For more information or to schedule a free consultation with New Jersey DWI attorney Dan T. Matrafajlo, please call the Law Offices of Dan T. Matrafajlo at (908) 248-4404.
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