How To Keep Your Life Together After a New Jersey DUI
You made the poor decision to get behind the wheels of your car after consuming alcohol and now you have to deal with the life altering consequences. The DUI (driving under the influence) arrest can be extremely embarrassing, especially if it occurred in front of your family or friends. You may rightfully be frightened for the consequences and what may come next.
If you have been arrested for a DUI in New Jersey, it is important to know that you do not have to go through the process alone. As experienced New Jersey DUI attorney, we understand what you and your loved ones are going through. We are committed to providing our clients with the legal support and guidance that you need to not only defend your case, but also to help you deal with the significant impact a DUI can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones.
What To Do If You Are Arrested for Drunk Driving
It is important to note that a DUI arrest is not the same thing as a DUI conviction. In other words, just because you have been arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol, it does not mean that you will automatically be convicted on the charges. You have certain constitutional rights that you should exercise.
You are not legally obligated to answer any questions following your DUI arrest without first speaking to an attorney. This is an important right because anything you say can and will be used against you, even if you believe you didn’t do anything wrong. As such, it is always best to immediately consult with an experienced New Jersey DUI attorney before discussing your situation with the police or admitting fault.
Furthermore, you have certain defenses that you can assert in fighting the DUI charges against you. However, in order to make sure these defense strategies remain available and viable, you should immediately hire an attorney.
Potential Consequences of a DUI Conviction
Hiring an aggressive drunk driving attorney is imperative after a DUI arrest because a conviction can result in any of the following penalties:
- Fines, fees and heavy surcharges
- The suspension of your driver’s license
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID)
- Jail time
- Community service
You may also face additional penalties depending on various factors, such as whether it is a first, second or subsequent DUI offense, whether you were found with an open container at the time of your arrest, whether your driver’s license was already suspended, or whether you had drugs in your possession at the time of the arrest.
Call a Traffic Ticket Attorney in New Jersey
If you or someone you know is facing drunk driving charges in New Jersey, an experienced attorney may be able to help avoid a conviction. For more information or to schedule a free consultation with New Jersey drunk driving attorney Dan T. Matrafajlo, please call Beninato & Matrafajlo Law at (908) 248-4404.