Testa Heck Testa and White, P.A.

Call for help: 856-899-5327 

Call for help: 856-899-5327

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I’m Being Charged With A DUI In Vineland; What Are My Options?

When facing a DUI charge, it is important to have an attorney you can trust by your side. Testa Heck Testa & White, P.A., has worked with clients throughout New Jersey. We have built a reputation throughout the community as a fearless advocate for those who need it most. Let us help when your future is on the line.

What You Should Know

Each state has specific laws put into place, and New Jersey is no different. For your first offense, you may be facing three months of license suspension and mandatory alcohol education courses. For a repeat offense, you could lose your license for up to 10 years. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, you may legally be charged with a DUI. Aggravated BAC is 0.10% – which means you face steeper consequences.

The first thing you should do after being charged is to contact a knowledgeable attorney. Our firm is known for its ability to fight even the most serious penalties. Without proper representation, you run the risk of sacrificing your basic freedoms. We can help you examine all areas of your case. From talking to witnesses to combing through the police report, our firm is dedicated to defending your rights.

What Are The Penalties For A First DUI In New Jersey?

In New Jersey, the sentences for a first-offense DUI vary based on the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of the arrest.

  • BAC of 0.08% to 0.10%: Penalties may include a fine of $250 to $400, up to 30 days in jail and a driver’s license suspension for three months.
  • BAC is 0.10% or higher: The fines increase from $300 to $500, and the license suspension can last from seven months to one year. This also applies if an offender permits another person with a high BAC to drive their vehicle.

Additionally, there are other consequences, such as a mandatory Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) program and interlock ignition device requirements for certain cases.

What Factors Can Make DUI Penalties Worse In New Jersey?

Certain circumstances can exacerbate the consequences of a DUI. These can include:

  • Repeat offenses within a 10-year period
  • A high BAC level
  • Being a commercial driver
  • Causing an accident involving property damage or bodily injury
  • Driving on a suspended license
  • Having a minor in the vehicle
  • Prior drunk driving charges on your record

With any one of these factors present, you can expect higher fines, longer jail sentences, longer probationary periods and longer license revocation periods. In cases with two or more factors present, the sentences will certainly be more severe and may even involve prison time.

Why Does Hiring An Experienced Vineland DUI Attorney Matter?

When facing DUI charges in Vineland or elsewhere in New Jersey, hiring an experienced attorney is critical. A knowledgeable DUI attorney can navigate the complex legal system and may help reduce the charges or penalties. They understand the intricacies of DUI laws and can challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors and represent your interests in court.

Michael L. Testa, the senior partner at his firm, is not only certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey in criminal law but also boasts an AV Preeminent* peer-review rating by Martindale-Hubbell, indicating the highest standard of legal ability and ethical standards. His skills could provide a significant advantage in handling a DUI case.

Call Today To Discuss Your Case

Don’t wait any longer to learn about your options. We can discuss all potential solutions and determine how to best move forward. Call our office in Vineland today at 856-899-5327 to schedule an initial consultation. You can also fill out our contact form.

*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer-review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.