Being charged with drunk driving in New Jersey is a serious matter. If you are charged with driving while under the influence (DWI), you are understandably frightened and nervous. You are most likely unsure of what you need to do to protect your legal rights and avoid a conviction of the charges. The following is a guide to help you understand what to expect and how to avoid the worst possible penalties and consequences of a DWI conviction.
What Happens After the DWI Arrest
Several things will happen after a New Jersey drunk driving arrest.
- You will be issued a ticket. You will be released from the police station and be issued one or more traffic tickets. The tickets can be for the DWI as well as any other traffic violations the arresting officer observed or deems warranted in your case.
- A court date will be set. You will then be issued a court date. This is the date you will be arraigned on the charges filed against you. The date is written on the bottom of the traffic ticket you get. The date is generally set for a few days after your arrest. It is best to hire an experienced New Jersey DWI attorney before this court date so they can represent you at the hearing.
- You will be arraigned. At your arraignment date, the judge will outline the full set of charges filed against you, explain your rights under New Jersey law, and ask you whether your plea is guilty or not guilty. If you plead guilty, the judge might issue the sentence at this hearing. If not, the judge will postpone and set a trial date to hear your case. If you have not hired a private defense attorney, you can apply for representation by a public defender.
Why You Need an Experienced New Jersey DWI Defense Attorney
Just because you are charged with drunk driving does not mean that you will or deserve to be automatically convicted on the charges, especially if this is your first DWI arrest. When you hire an experienced New Jersey DWI attorney in the early stages of your case, they will make sure you don’t take any steps that can impact the outcome of your case. Your attorney will gather all important evidence and devise the best strategy for your specific case to ensure the best outcome.
Without an aggressive and knowledgeable defense attorney on your side, you can risk an unsuccessful defense which can cost you dearly. A drunk driving charge, even if it is your first, can stay on your record forever. A conviction can impact all aspects of your life, so it is best to immediately hire an attorney and protect your legal rights.
Contact Us Today!
If you have been arrested for drunk driving, you should discuss your case, including any potential meritorious motions to suppress, with an experienced New Jersey DWI attorney. For more information or to schedule a free consultation with one of our skilled attorneys, please call Beninato & Matrafajlo Attorneys at Law, LLC at 908-355-7100.
