What Are the Consequences of a Conviction for a DUI or DWI Prior to The Dec. 1, 2019 Changes to the Law?

Every state has slightly different penalties for a DUI or DWI conviction, but no matter where you’re located, the consequences can be severe.

Here is a list of penalties that you will face if you receive a DWI conviction in New Jersey under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50:

Possible DWI Penalties in New Jersey – 39:4-50:

• Jail Time for 48 Hours to 6 Months, depending on the specifics of your case and the number of previous DUI convictions. (If you have 2 or more previous convictions, you must serve 6 months.)
• Fines between $250 and $2,000 – as well as hundreds more in fees and surcharges
• 30 days of community service overseen by a probation officer for some cases
• Requirements to attend Intoxicated Driver Resource Center classes for up to 48 hours
• Requirements to attend and pay for drug or alcohol counseling
• Suspension of your driver’s license from 90 days to 20 years
• Suspension of your commercial driver’s license for 1 year to a lifetime suspension
• Suspension of your commercial driver’s license with hazmat provision for 3 years to a lifetime suspension
• Jail time (and increased driver’s license suspension) if you are caught for driving when your driver’s license is suspended for a DUI
• Required installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) between 13 months and 23 years
• No option for an occupational limited driver’s license or work driver’s license – which means you absolutely cannot drive if convinced of a DWI charge and receive a suspension of your driver’s license as a result
• Surcharge of $1000 annually for 3 years (even if you live out of state)
• A DWI conviction will remain on your New Jersey driving record forever
• You will also face penalties from your car insurance company, which can include raising your rates or even dropping your coverage after you are convicted of a DUI
• You may also face penalties from your life insurance company, including denying an application for covered or increased premiums
• If you are a non-citizen, you may be deported or denied naturalization
• Those here on a Work Visa or Green Card may have renewal delayed or denied
• Many foreign countries, including Canada, may forbid you or delay entry – even if it’s just for a vacation.