DWI/DUI Points and Penalties 

Understanding Points and Penalties
Some people believe it's easier to simply plead guilty to DWI/DUI and pay the fines rather than hire an experienced attorney. The charges can't be that expensive, right? Not so.

In New Jersey , DWI/DUI is extremely complex and a conviction carries with it some very harsh consequences - including potential jail time. Consider these mandatory fines and penalties (not including towing, impound fees and insurance increases):

First Offense:

• A fine of $250 to $400
• Imprisonment for up to 30 days
• 3 months to 7 months, based on blood alcohol reading
• 12 to 48 hours detainment in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC), at a charge of $75 a day
• Automobile insurance surcharge of $1,000 a year for three years
• $100 Drunk Driving Fund fee
• $100 Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund fee
• $75 Safe Neighborhood Services Fund fee

Total cost: Up to $3,825

Second Offense

• A fine of $500 to $1,000
• Imprisonment up to 90 days
• Two year license suspension
• 48 hours detainment in a regional Intoxicated Driver Resource Center , at a charge of $100 a day
• 30 days of community service
• Automobile insurance surcharge of $1,000 a year for 3 years
• $100 Drunk Driving Fund fee
• $100 Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund fee
• $75 Safe Neighborhood Services Fund fee

Total cost: Up to $4,475

Third Offense

• A fine of $1,000
• Imprisonment of 180 days
• 10 year license suspension
• 48 hours detainment in a regional Intoxicated Driver Resource Center , at a charge of $100 a day
• Up to 90 days of community service
• Automobile insurance surcharge of $1,500 a year for 3 years
• $100 Drunk Driving Fund fee
• $100 Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund fee
• $75 Safe Neighborhood Services Fund fee

Total cost: Up to $5,975

Driving on DUI Suspension

• A $500 fine
• mprisonment of 10 to 90 days
• Additional 1 to 2 years license suspension
• Automobile insurance surcharge of $250 a year for 3 years

Refusing to Provide a Breath Sample
This is a separate offense (N.J.S.A.39:4-50.4a) which subjects you to additional penalties on top of those imposed for DWI/DUI. 

Why a Lawyer is Invaluable
By utilizing a lawyer to help you fight the charges, you can avoid these stiff penalties, along with the potential jail time, loss of time on the job and insurance increases