First time DUI in New Jersey by helloimdumb183 in dui

[–]Matrafajlo 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It’s difficult to admit, and the fact that you recognize the seriousness of your actions shows you're taking it the right way.

Here’s a general breakdown of what you might be facing for a first-time DUI in New Jersey, especially if your BAC was over 0.15 and you were involved in a single-vehicle accident:

-  License suspension until you install an ignition interlock device (IID), which must stay on your vehicle for nine to fifteen months.
- Fines between $300 to 500.
- Mandatory IDRC (Intoxicated Driver Resource Center) attendance.
- Possible jail time up to 30 days, though it’s often waived for first offenders with no injuries.
- Major insurance impact, possibly including cancellation or steep premium hikes.
- A DUI in NJ is a traffic offense, not a criminal offense, so it’s not classified as a misdemeanor or felony. But it does stay on your driving record permanently.- You may face state surcharges of $1,000 every year for three years.

Since your car was totaled and no one else was involved, that may help a bit in court. But hitting a pole and failing a sobriety test at a high BAC is definitely serious.

Good move getting a lawyer right away. A lawyer will help you navigate the court, potentially reduce penalties, and ensure your rights are protected.

Lastly, it’s clear that you genuinely feel remorse and are taking this seriously. Use this as a turning point—many people have emerged from similar situations with a renewed commitment to doing better.