Facing DWI Charges? 3 FAQs to Help You Understand Your Situation

It goes without saying that facing DWI charges in New Jersey is a stressful experience, and the outcome of your case could have a profound impact on many aspects of your life. From steep fines to jail time to a driver’s license suspension, the consequences of a conviction are serious, so it’s important that you take the time to understand your situation and do all you can to fight your charges.

In this article, I’ll go over a few of the most common questions people ask when they’re facing DWI charges. But the only way to get detailed answers that are specific to your case is to consult a criminal attorney.

If you would like to schedule a free consultation with a DUI lawyer in Jersey City, contact my office. Even if you failed the breath test and field sobriety tests, there may be a defense that leads to reduced charges, reduced sentencing, or the dismissal of your case.

I will evaluate your situation and explain exactly how I will help you secure the best possible outcome for your case. Call 973-453-2009 to schedule a consultation at the Law Office of Eric M. Mark.

Read on to learn the answers to three common questions asked by people who are facing DWI charges in New Jersey:

• I Failed the Breathalyzer—Is It Pointless to Fight My Charges?

No. In fact, your breath test results might not even be admissible in court if the officer made certain procedural errors. Common procedural mistakes that could make your breath test results inadmissible include:

• The officer did not have probable cause to stop your vehicle;
• The officer did not watch you for 20 minutes before administering the breath test; or
• The officer did not give you appropriate instructions.

Your breath test results may also be inadmissible if your criminal attorney can prove that the results may have been unreliable. Your lawyer may support this defense using expert testimonies, records of case certifications, and records of data from the machine.

• If I’m Convicted, Will I Have to Install an Ignition Interlock Device?

The answer to this question usually depends on whether it is your first or a subsequent conviction and what your blood alcohol concentration was at the time of your arrest. If this is your second or subsequent offense, you will have to get an IID installed on your vehicle. You will also be required to get an IID installed if it is your first offense and your BAC was 0.15 or higher. Unfortunately, even if your BAC was below 0.15, the court may still order you to install an IID.

• Is Hiring a DUI Lawyer Really Worth the Expense?

Absolutely. An experienced criminal attorney will know how to identify any procedural errors made by police before, during, or after your arrest, which could cause evidence against you to be inadmissible in court and ultimately lead to the dismissal of your case.

Your attorney can also help you arrange expert testimonies, which may be a crucial part of your defense. For example, your lawyer may get an independent expert to evaluate the machines used to conduct your chemical tests as well as reports for inaccuracies.

If you’re ready to discuss your case with a criminal attorney in Jersey City, call my office today at 973-453-2009.