New Jersey DWI Attorneys
Helping Clients Avoid a DWI Conviction
Driving under the influence can change your life forever. Aside from the grave danger that’s imposed upon yourself and other drivers on the road, the consequences of driving while intoxicated can land you a lengthy sentence in jail, result in high fines, and lead to license suspension. New Jersey state law on driving while intoxicated (DWI), also referred to as driving under the influence (DUI), is strict and penalizes to the full extent those found to be drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs.
At The Bianchi Law Group, LLC, our DWI defense attorneys understand that accidents happen. We believe you should have the right to defend yourself against any mistakes you make and should have a fighting chance at having your charges dismissed entirely.
Under the United States Constitution, every individual accused of a crime has the right to a fair trial and a right to quality legal representation. At The Bianchi Law Group, LLC, we offer a free consultation to anyone accused of DWI charges. We pledge to offer sound legal advice and a clear path for your defense moving forward. You deserve to understand the full extent of the law and every option you have for reducing your imminent penalties.
Contact our compassionate, knowledgeable team of former prosecutors as soon as you are placed under DWI arrest. We’ll provide a free consultation and give you the answers and hope you need at each step of your proceedings. You can reach our law offices at 862-292-4442.
What Are New Jersey’s DWI Laws?
Because of the dangers of drunk driving, New Jersey takes a strong stance against individuals who put others’ lives at risk by driving while inebriated. However, this doesn’t mean that everyone who is arrested for DWI is guilty or deserves maximum sentencing. You should understand some aspects of the law behind your DWI charges so you appreciate the seriousness of the situation and know how to fight back. One of the best ways to get your charges explained to you and determine the best way to proceed is by talking to an experienced attorney.
According to New Jersey law, an individual may be arrested for driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. This applies whether or not the person has a high tolerance for alcohol. Additionally, someone can be pulled over and arrested if their BAC is less than 0.08% if the police officer finds that they are operating a vehicle while inebriated. Driving under the influence as a minor can also lead to serious charges. A so-called Baby DWI can lead to license suspension, mandatory community service, and other consequences. If the underage driver had over 0.08% blood alcohol content, they may be charged as an adult with a full DWI.
To help understand the details behind your DWI, please get in touch with our criminal defense lawyers right away. We’ll explain how DWI law applies in your criminal case and do everything possible to avoid a DWI conviction. Reach out to our drunk driving attorneys immediately to schedule your free consultation.
What Types of DWI Cases Does Your Law Firm Handle?
When you hire a lawyer, you need an experienced attorney who handles various cases. Our drunk driving lawyers have handled many different DWI charges, which means we are prepared to take on whatever challenge your case may bring. We’ll leave no stone unturned as we seek evidence that backs up your defense strategy. You can trust us to hold law enforcement officers accountable for misconduct and protect your rights throughout your case.
Some examples of DWI cases we handle include:
- First offense DWI
- Repeat offense DWI
- Underage DWI
- DWI with extremely high BAC
- Drug-related DWI
- DWI with child endangerment
- DWI causing injury or death
- Vehicular assault and manslaughter
Being placed under DWI arrest can be scary and confusing. Please don’t hesitate to exercise your right to a DWI lawyer who will prepare your DWI defense and fight for your rights. Call The Bianchi Law Group, LLC, for defense attorneys who won’t rest until they’ve given you the best chances at a favorable outcome.
What Is the Penalty for First Offense DUI?
Many individuals expect the legal system to be lenient for a first-offense DWI and are disappointed to learn they must still face the harsh penalties of a full-blown DWI. If you are an underage driver, you may be able to avoid jail time. However, you could still face fines and consequences that strongly impact your life. For example, an adult facing a typical first DWI in New Jersey could face up to 30 days in jail, be fined between $250-$400, face required ignition interlock device use, and have their license suspended for 30 days.
Furthermore, you should consider the risks that go beyond legal penalties. For example, your insurance rates could skyrocket, making it difficult to keep up with payments on your vehicle. If your license is suspended, you may have a hard time getting to work, school, and medical appointments. You’ll also risk suffering from the social stigma that comes with a drunk driving conviction.
Finally, you may face severe penalties, including felony charges, if your first DWI includes aggravating factors like extremely high BAC or causing an accident that injured or killed someone. Please don’t take any risks with so much at stake. Even if this is your first DWI, you should reach out to a DWI lawyer immediately to have someone take your side and ensure you get the best results possible.
How Are Repeat DWIs Sentenced in New Jersey?
If first-offense DWIs are severe in New Jersey, subsequent charges are even more severe. Repeat offenders could face higher fines, harsher jail sentences, and longer license suspension. For example, a third or subsequent DWI can mean fines of up to $1,000, at least 180 days in jail, and a license suspension of eight years. Aggravating factors such as high BAC or child endangerment can increase these penalties further.
Our defense attorneys have extensive experience handling DWI offenses, including cases involving repeat offenders. A skilled DWI attorney at our firm can help you avoid the devastating consequences of a DWI conviction. We’ll fight for you in negotiations both in and out of court. We aren’t afraid to take cases to the New Jersey Supreme Court if necessary. Reach out to our law offices immediately to get a step ahead of the prosecution and find a strategy that helps minimize your sentencing as much as possible.
Is Driving Under the Influence of Drugs Considered DWI?
In New Jersey, driving under the influence of mind-altering drugs is treated similarly to drunk driving. Even driving while using controlled prescription drugs can cause a person to be unable to conduct their vehicle properly, resulting in DWI charges. Please note that using illicit or illegal drugs may lead to additional charges that should be handled by an experienced DWI defense attorney.
If you are facing charges related to drug use and driving, you can count on our team of defense attorneys to fight your charges and restore your freedom. We understand how easy it is to make a mistake, and we know that a simple error does not always merit severe legal action. We are also fully aware of your Constitutional rights and will defend your rights no matter what charges are being brought against you.
For more information about fighting your drug-related New Jersey DWI, please contact our team of former prosecutors right away. We can help you understand how certain aggravating factors, such as large amounts of the drug, drug paraphernalia, or using in a drug-free zone, will affect your sentencing. We’ll also ensure your Constitutional rights are respected throughout the legal process. Call today for your free initial consultation.
What Aggravating Factors Can Make My Penalties More Severe?
Constructing a DWI defense can be complex, especially with the prevailing attitude of coming down hard against offenders. Matters can become even more complicated when you are facing aggravating factors that make your charges that much more serious. Contacting a trusted New Jersey DWI lawyer is critical when facing charges that involve enhanced penalties due to aggravating factors.
Some examples of factors that could bring a harsher penalty in your case include:
- Child endangerment – In New Jersey, a minor is anyone who is under age 18. If you are caught driving while intoxicated with a minor in the vehicle, you could face additional punishment
- High BAC – If your blood test revealed BAC levels of .10% or higher, you might face stringent penalties due to what is considered an extremely high BAC
- Multiple offenses – Facing a repeat DUI is one of the most common reasons people have severe penalties for a conviction. If your DWI convictions occur in a relatively short time period, you could face even harsher sentencing
- Causing injury or death – Another common aggravating factor occurs when the drunk driver causes an accident that results in severe injury or death
Call our New Jersey DWI defense attorneys to learn how we can help you avoid the severe consequences of a DWI conviction. We’ll work tirelessly to get you the best results possible, including lowering or dismissing your charges. You’ll get a free consultation when you call The Bianchi Law Group, LLC, so contact us today!
How Will a DUI Conviction Affect My Life?
When most people think about a DWI conviction, they worry about jail time, fines, and license suspension. These aspects of a DWI case are certainly serious and merit an excellent DWI defense. However, there is more to consider than just the legal penalties of your conviction.
If convicted of DWI in New Jersey, you risk the following and more:
- Loss of professional licensing
- Limited career choices
- Difficulty getting accepted or keeping admittance into the school of your choice
- Harder time finding housing
- Difficulty obtaining employment
- Strained family relationships
- Loss of custody of your children
A DWI arrest doesn’t mean you’ll automatically have to face these challenges. You can get help from a knowledgeable DWI defense team that has your back. At our law group, we regularly fight on behalf of our clients and will use that knowledge and determination to get your DWI dismissed so you don’t have the headache of a permanent criminal record. Contact our team about your DUI charges and fight for your freedom.
What Should I Do if I’m Placed Under DWI Arrest?
Many people wonder how to react when they are placed under arrest for an alleged DWI offense. Many law enforcement agencies require field sobriety tests, even though these assessments are notoriously inaccurate. You do not need to submit to a field sobriety test, which usually consists of walking in a straight line and performing other tasks that many people with no alcohol or drug use may find difficult. However, you are obligated by New Jersey law to submit to a blood test or breath test to determine your blood alcohol concentration.
Our DWI lawyers have extensive experience representing clients who have failed field sobriety tests and blood tests. We understand that these assessments often do not represent the person’s level of inebriation. We’ll also provide guidance and answers as you navigate the investigation period, including helping you to install an ignition interlock device so that you will receive credit against any potential loss of driving privileges. We can help you answer police officers’ questions while maintaining your good character image and avoiding accidental self-incrimination.
If you or a loved one has been arrested, please contact us immediately. You do not need to answer any questions without first speaking with a lawyer, and you should exercise your right to remain silent until you consult with our legal team. Call The Bianchi Law Group, LLC, for help from legal professionals who will watch out for your best interests.
Are Field Sobriety Tests Mandatory in New Jersey?
When you are arrested by a police officer in New Jersey, you may think you have no choice but to comply with their instructions. While it is important to cooperate and be polite with law enforcement officials, you don’t necessarily need to do everything they say. Field sobriety tests are not required by law, and you may legally refuse to submit to such evaluations.
However, by holding a New Jersey driver’s license, you imply voluntary consent to blood tests that determine your blood alcohol level. Our DWI attorneys recognize that these tests are not always accurate, and we can investigate to determine whether your test was administered correctly or is admissible as evidence.
You can count on our DWI defense team to identify ways your rights were violated if police officers did not respect your rights. We’ll fight for justice on your behalf, including getting your DWI charges lowered or thrown out altogether. For any drunk driving offenses, please contact our law offices immediately.
What Strategies Can Help Me Avoid a DWI Conviction?
Many prosecutors in New Jersey take pride in handling DWI cases with speed and efficiency. As former prosecutors, our lawyers understand how the opposition thinks and will use this against them. We won’t hesitate to prepare a defense against your drunk driving charge.
Some examples of methods we can use to get your charges reduced or dismissed include:
- Mistaken identity – In other words, you were not the person driving, nor were you responsible for letting the inebriated person drive
- Lack of evidence – The burden of proof is on the prosecution to demonstrate that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. We’ll introduce doubt by showing that the prosecutor lacks credible evidence against you
- Acting under force or duress – If you were tricked or forced into drinking, you might be able to avoid the harshest sentencing for your DWI offense
- Illegal traffic stop – Police officers must follow protocol when pulling people over. If you are the victim of an illegal traffic stop, your charges could be lowered or thrown out
- Violation of rights – Violating your Constitutional rights can likewise result in lowered sentencing or having your case dismissed
Traffic offenses, especially DWI charges, should not be taken lightly. The prosecution will likely take swift action against you, so you should also act quickly to develop a DWI defense. A DWI lawyer at our law offices can help you get the results you need.
How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help with My DWI Case?
Since a DWI is a criminal offense, it is crucial for you to have adequate legal counsel when facing a DWI charge. Motor vehicle offenses in New Jersey carry some hefty penalties, and hiring excellent legal representation can ensure you don’t have a harsher sentence than you deserve.
Some other benefits of having a skilled DWI attorney helping with your case include the following:
- Counsel on how New Jersey DWI law affects your unique case
- Fearless representation before a judge or jury, including the New Jersey Supreme Court
- Explanation of the meaning of your DWI charges
- Coaching on how to answer law enforcement officers’ questions
- Protection of your legal rights
- Help getting your impaired driving offense lowered or dismissed
- Avoiding the devastating effects of license suspension and making sure you receive credit for the installation of ignition interlock device mandates
- Assistance in appealing your sentencing, if appropriate
Our legal team will do everything possible to get your DWI dismissed or get your sentence lowered. Call our law offices immediately if you or a loved one has a DWI charge in New Jersey.
What Makes Your Law Firm Different from Other DWI Attorneys?
When seeking a New Jersey DWI lawyer, it is understandable that you want a team with extensive experience handling DWI charges. The potential consequences of a conviction make it imperative that you have a trusted DWI lawyer on your side. Our legal team offers sound legal advice based on decades of combined experience.
Additionally, our experience includes time serving as prosecutors and leading officers in the Morris County law enforcement system. We apply our knowledge, skill, and honesty in every legal case, especially for individuals facing charges for DWI offenses. Our commitment to justice drives us to fight relentlessly for our clients. You can count on Attorneys Bianchi and Bruno to get the most favorable results possible.
Should You Hire Our New Jersey DWI Attorneys?
Hiring the right attorney can impact the rest of your life, especially when you or a loved one is facing the serious charges of a New Jersey DWI. Getting your DWI dismissed can mean regaining your freedom to work, study, commute, and live as you please. With the right law offices on your side, you can proceed to fight your charges with confidence.
The lawyers at The Bianchi Law Group, LLC are the professionals you want on your side as you confront such a serious legal issue as DUI charges. Whether that means contesting the fact that you exceeded the legal limit, negotiating with prosecutors, or taking the matter to municipal court, we’ll stand by your side and seek justice on your behalf.
At our law offices, we offer a free, confidential case evaluation so you can get the help and answers you need at no financial obligation. From the moment you step foot in our office, you’ll recognize the warmth and compassion of our legal team. Call now to schedule your consultation at 862-292-4442.