person trying to stop an intoxicated man from driving

DUI Lawyer for Second Offense in New Jersey

A second DUI/DWI conviction in New Jersey could significantly impact your life in a wide range of ways. The consequences are much more severe than a first offense, with harsher penalties and a longer-lasting effect on your personal and professional life.

At William Proetta Criminal Law, we understand the fear and uncertainty you may be experiencing right now, and we want to alleviate that by handling your case to seek the best possible outcome for you.

Contact us today for a free case review with our New Jersey second DWI offense lawyer, and let’s fight your charges together.

What to Expect After Being Charged with a Second DUI in NJ

A second DUI charge in New Jersey is much more serious than a first. Many first-time DUI offenders avoid jail time and a license suspension so long as they submit to the installation of an ignition interlock device.

However, prosecutors pursue subsequent DUI/DWI charges much more aggressively, and judges often view second offenses as a serious risk to public safety. The key to managing this situation is to work with an experienced New Jersey DUI attorney from William Proetta Criminal Law who can explain the process and prepare an effective defense strategy for you.

What Are the Penalties for a Repeat DUI/DWI Offense?

The penalties for a second DUI in New Jersey are substantially more severe than for a first-time offense. The court system aims to discourage repeat offenses by imposing harsher punishments. Here’s what you could face if you are convicted of a repeat DUI/DWI offense in New Jersey:

License Suspension

If convicted, your driver’s driving privileges will be suspended for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years. Unlike first-time offenders who may avoid suspension by installing an ignition interlock device, this option is not available for second offenses.

Fines and Fees

You could face fines ranging from $500 to $1,000, in addition to court costs and other fees. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission also imposes annual auto insurance surcharges of $1,000 for three years.

Every DUI offense also involves a $100 surcharge for the Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund, a $100 restoration fee, a $100 Intoxicated Driving Program fee, a $50 Violent Crimes Compensation Fund fee, and a $75 Safe and Secure Community Program fee.

Ignition Interlock Device

You will be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle for the license suspension period and up to four years after it is reinstated. The device prevents your car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath.

Community Service and Jail Time

A second DWI conviction comes with a mandatory jail sentence of at least 48 hours, with the potential for up to 90 days in jail. Additionally, you may be ordered to complete 30 days of community service.

Alcohol Education Programs

You will be required to attend alcohol education classes, including the Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) program. The program assesses your need for treatment and provides education on the dangers of impaired driving.

Increased Car Insurance Costs

In addition to the $1,000 surcharge for three years, a second DUI offense will significantly raise your car insurance premiums, as you will be labeled a high-risk driver. That can result in financial strain long after your case is resolved.

Potential Defenses for a Second DUI Charge in New Jersey

Defending against a second DUI charge in New Jersey requires a comprehensive approach tailored to the unique circumstances of your case. At William Proetta Criminal Law, we are prepared to explore every possible defense strategy, including:

  • Challenging the arrest – We investigate the legality of the traffic stop and whether law enforcement followed proper procedures during your arrest. Any missteps could lead to evidence being suppressed.
  • Questioning the Breathalyzer results – Breathalyzer devices are not infallible and can produce inaccurate readings due to calibration errors, improper use, or medical conditions that affect BAC results.
  • Scrutinizing field sobriety tests – Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be influenced by factors such as medical conditions, weather, and road conditions. We challenge the validity of these tests to weaken the prosecution’s case.
  • Exploring the 10-year step-down provision – If more than 10 years have passed since your first offense, we can argue that your second offense should be treated as a first offense, thus reducing the potential penalties you face.

Why You Need Help from a DUI Defense Lawyer

Don’t make the mistake of defending yourself from a second offense DWI. The skilled second-offense DUI lawyer at William Proetta Criminal Law understands the complexities of New Jersey law and can protect your rights, seek to minimize DWI penalties, and pursue the best outcome given the circumstances. Here’s how our firm can assist you:

  • We understand the complexities of NJ law. New Jersey DUI laws are complicated, and navigating them is best left to a seasoned professional. We are ready to analyze every aspect of your case to build a strong defense.
  • We can protect your rights. The legal system can be intimidating, and without proper guidance, you may not know your legal rights or how to assert them. Our attorneys are dedicated to upholding your rights during police and prosecutorial questioning, while appearing in court, and during sentencing.
  • We seek to minimize penalties. By challenging the evidence and negotiating with prosecutors, we work tirelessly to reduce or dismiss the charges against you, aiming to avoid the most severe penalties.
  • We guide you through the legal process. From your first court appearance to the final resolution of your case, we provide clear, straightforward advice. We explain your options and the possible outcomes so that you can make informed decisions.

Take a moment to review the positive testimonials previous clients have left for our law firm. For example, Patrick H. writes, “Will Proetta puts his heart and soul into delivering optimal result for his clientele. I 100000% recommend his services whether looking for representation on a minor traffic ticket or more serious charges requiring the expertise of a Veteran criminal lawyer with connections throughout NJ.”

Get a Free Consultation from a DUI Second Offense Lawyer Now

If you’ve been charged with a New Jersey repeat DUI offense, don’t wait to seek legal help. The consequences of a second conviction are serious, but with the right legal representation, you can fight back and protect your future.

Contact William Proetta Criminal Law today for a free consultation with an experienced New Jersey second-offense DUI lawyer.