It’s generally accepted across the United States that a person is legally drunk if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels are at least .08% or higher. This benchmark applies even in New Jersey, where the punishments for those convicted of DWI depend on how...
DUI/DWI
Driving intoxicated with a minor? A harsher DWI awaits
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) in New Jersey is a crime because a drunk driver is a major risk liability. An inebriated driver is a danger to themselves, other drivers, their passengers and pedestrians. Anyone convicted of DWI faces a fine of at least $250 and...
Underage drivers get worse DWI penalties
Drinking alcohol for the first time is a popular rite of passage to adulthood. This is understandable, as New Jersey’s laws prohibit minors from consuming alcoholic beverages until the age of 21. Underage drinkers can face severe penalties for breaking the law. But...
What happens if you don’t pay DUI surcharges?
If you are charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in New Jersey, be prepared to pay a lot. You can expect to pay a fine between $200 and $1,000, depending on how high your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels are and how many earlier DUI convictions you’ve...
Do BAC levels matter in DWI charges?
When a police officer pulls over a driver suspected of driving while intoxicated (DWI), the officer will test the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) through a breathalyzer. If the driver’s breathalyzer results show that their BAC is 0.08% or higher,...
Is a New Jersey recovery court an option for you?
When you face a New Jersey drug charge, quite a lot hangs in the balance. Depending on the severity of the charge you are up against, you may wind up serving time in jail or prison, among other potential repercussions. However, if you meet certain eligibility terms,...
How can you stay legal under New Jersey’s marijuana laws?
The legalization of marijuana in various states has led to some confusion. Just because a state decriminalized the use of marijuana for recreational purposes does not make it a free-for-all. There are still rules that you must follow. Before you start using cannabis...
Is DNA really infallible evidence?
Once technology advanced, the criminal justice system began relying heavily on DNA evidence in many cases to prove guilt. The idea was that if DNA proves it, then there is no way to argue otherwise. While DNA is very good evidence, it is not without its faults. It is...
What should you know about the proposed changes to implied consent?
If they suspect them of drinking alcohol or using drugs before getting behind the wheel, law enforcement may stop motorists. Among other tactics they commonly use, the authorities may ask drivers to submit to chemical testing to determine their blood alcohol...
Commonly abused drugs and how to recognize them
Penalties for possession of illicit drugs are typically steep. However, they can vary based on the type of drug and how potent it is. Different drugs may have attributes in common. The New Jersey State Police identifies drugs commonly abused in the state and explains...