New Jersey DUI Defense Attorney

At Putterman Legal, our New Jersey DUI defense lawyer is a strong, experienced, and solutions-focused advocate for justice. Drunk driving is a serious offense. A conviction can lead to a wide range of adverse consequences, including the loss of your license and incarceration. If you or your loved one was arrested for a DUI, we are here to help. Contact us today for a fully confidential consultation with a top-rated New Jersey DUI defense lawyer. 

An Overview of DUI Charges in New Jersey

Driving under the influence (DUI) may also be referred to as driving while intoxicated (DWI) in New Jersey. A DUI/DWI charge is prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50. The statute makes it unlawful to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, hallucinogens, or with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. However, a first-time DWI in New Jersey is technically not a criminal offense. Still, though classified as a traffic offense, penalties can be severe, including incarceration. Here are some key points to know about DUI charges in New Jersey: 

• Legal Standard for DUI: A driver may be convicted if their BAC is 0.08 percent or higher, or if the State proves they were “under the influence.” That means a DUI could be charged even without a chemical test. Commercial drivers face a lower threshold (0.04). Drivers under 21 face a zero-tolerance policy for a DUI charge. 
• Implied Consent and Refusal Offenses: The mere act of operating a vehicle in New Jersey, drivers give implied consent to breath testing. Refusing the Alcotest is a separate violation under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50.4a. Refusal carries automatic penalties, including the administrative suspension of your driver’s license.
• Mandatory Penalties: DUI penalties vary based on your history of offense, or lack thereof. First-time offenders face fines, license suspension, Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) participation, and ignition interlock installation. A second offense within ten years brings mandatory jail, a one-to-two-year suspension, and extended interlock use. A third offense carries 180 days in jail and an eight-year suspension. You could also face more serious penalties for a DUI in New Jersey if there is an aggravating factor in your case, such as if you caused a serious crash while under the influence. 

Why Trust New Jersey DUI Defense Lawyer Bonnie Putterman

Arrested for a DUI? You may have a lot of questions about what comes next. For many people, a DUI charge is their first real encounter with the law. Bonnie Putterman is a New Jersey criminal defense attorney who puts people first. Our client testimonials show what we can do in DUI cases and other criminal matters. Along with other things, our New Jersey DUI defense lawyer is ready to: 

• Hear your story and answer questions about your DUI case
• Investigate the drunk driving arrest, gathering supporting evidence;
• Represent you in any correspondence with police and prosecutors; and
• Take whatever legal action is needed to raise the strongest possible defense.

DUI Charges in New Jersey: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Contact Our New Jersey DUI Defense Lawyer Today

At Putterman Legal, our New Jersey DUI defense attorney is committed to putting clients first. A DUI charge is a serious matter. You need a lawyer. If you were arrested for drunk driving or drugged driving, we can help. Contact us today for your completely confidential, no obligation initial consultation. We defend DUI charges throughout all of New Jersey.