Did you know that anybody who operates a motorized vehicle that has a drive train such as an automobile, a motorized watercraft, and a lawnmower can get a DUI offense?
Getting charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in New Jersey can be a scary and overwhelming experience. You might be worried that you will lose your license. It is also normal to be concerned about paying fines.
The good news is that there are several simple steps you can do after getting a DUI charge to protect yourself legally and financially. Keep reading and we will tell you everything you need to know.
What Happens at the Scene
When a person is pulled over for suspected drunk driving in New Jersey, the officer will typically ask for their license, registration, and insurance information.
The officer may also ask the driver to step out of the vehicle to perform field sobriety tests or a breathalyzer test.
If the officer determines that the driver is impaired, they may place them under arrest and take them to a nearby police station for further testing.
If the driver’s BAC is above the legal limit of 0.08%, they will likely be charged with a DUI in New Jersey.
After Getting Arrested
After getting arrested for DUI in New Jersey, there are a few things that will happen.
First, the officer will issue you a ticket that will list the charges against you. The ticket will also include the date and time of your first court appearance, which is known as the arraignment.
At the arraignment, you will be formally charged with the DUI offense, and you will have the opportunity to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
It’s important to have an attorney present with you at the arraignment to advise you on your options and to represent your best interests.
If you plead not guilty, the court will set a trial date for your case.
Hire a Lawyer
DUI penalties in New Jersey can be severe, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Hiring a skilled DUI lawyer can potentially help you minimize the impact of these penalties.
When choosing a lawyer to represent you, it’s important to look for someone who has lots of experience. You should make sure that they have a track record of success in DUI cases.
Look for a lawyer who specializes in DUI defense and who has a deep understanding of the legal system in New Jersey.
You should also look for a lawyer who is willing to work closely with you and who will take the time to explain the legal process and your options. A good lawyer should be responsive to your questions and concerns.
They should also provide you with regular updates on the progress of your case.
On the other hand, you should avoid lawyers who make unrealistic promises or who seem more interested in making a quick buck than in defending your rights.
Be wary of lawyers who advertise excessively or who charge unusually low fees, as this may be a sign of inexperience or a lack of commitment to your case.
Prepare for a Pre-Trial Conference and Motions
During a pre-trial conference, the defense and prosecution will meet to discuss the case and potentially negotiate a plea bargain or reduced sentence.
Pre-trial motions, on the other hand, are legal motions that can be used to challenge the evidence or the legality of the arrest.
It’s important to work closely with an experienced DUI lawyer during this process. They can help you navigate the complex legal system and ensure that your rights are protected under New Jersey DUI laws.
By preparing thoroughly for pre-trial conferences and motions, you can potentially reduce the impact of the charges and improve your chances of a successful defense.
Consider Your Plea Bargain Options
A plea bargain is an agreement between the prosecution and defense. When a defendant makes a plea bargain, they will agree to a lesser charge or reduced sentence in exchange for avoiding a trial.
Plea bargains are not always the best option. But they can be a useful tool for avoiding the most severe penalties of a DUI charge.
By considering your plea bargain options carefully, it will become easier to move forward with your life.
Prepare for Your Trial
To prepare for your trial, you will need to gather evidence, prepare legal arguments, and develop a strategy for the trial.
This may include identifying and preparing witnesses, conducting investigations, and cross-examining the prosecution’s witnesses.
It’s also important to prepare for the emotional and psychological demands of a trial, which can be stressful and overwhelming.
By preparing thoroughly and working closely with your lawyer, you might be able to improve your chances of a successful defense and minimize the impact of a DUI charge.
Sentencing and Appeals
If the court finds you guilty, the judge will probably impose a sentence that includes fines, license suspension, and potentially jail time.
But you might have the option to appeal the decision to a higher court. Keep in mind that appeals can be a lengthy and complex process, but they can be a useful tool for reducing or overturning DUI penalties in New Jersey.
What to Do After a Dui Charge
If you have recently gotten a DUI charge, it is important to know what to do.
The first thing you should do is hire an attorney. You will then need to work with your attorney to prepare for your trial. If the court finds you guilty, you should consider filing an appeal.
Are you ready to hire a skilled lawyer? If so, Maduabum Law is here to help you. Don’t hesitate to contact us to get started today!
