If you are accused of DUI in New Jersey, you face more than a serious legal problem. The repercussions of a drinking-and-driving conviction can have a long-term impact on your reputation, your ability to drive legally, and many of your future opportunities. When arrested and accused of DUI, it’s important to exercise your right to remain silent and contact a New Jersey DUI attorney immediately.
New Jersey DUI defense lawyer Steven Ellman has 35 years of experience defending challenging DUI cases and is proud to have achieved many remarkable victories. Steven Ellman knows each DUI case is unique, so his goal is to mitigate the damage as much as legally possible.
To date, Steven Ellman has represented over 1,000 DUI cases, and few law firms can match his record of favorable outcomes. These include an 80%-plus success rate in having DUI, DWI, and traffic offense charges dismissed.
Steven Ellman is a certified, award-winning DUI criminal defense attorney and a peer-respected defense lawyer. His authoritative approach, exceptional trial skills, and dedication to each client have led to a reputation for excellence in DUI defense.
Don’t let a DUI ruin your life and stain your record. Reach out to New Jersey DUI lawyer Steven Ellman today.
What Are the New Jersey DUI Limits and Laws?
New Jersey has a legal limit for alcohol intake before it becomes a DUI. New Jersey DUI laws state that you are considered legally intoxicated if you have a blood alcohol level or blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or above. If you are a commercially licensed driver, you are considered legally intoxicated if your BAC is 0.04 percent or above. Anyone under the age of 21 with a BAC of 0.01 percent to 0.08 percent can be arrested for a “baby DUI.” (As a reminder, it’s illegal for anyone under age 21 to consume alcohol in New Jersey.)
In addition, New Jersey has an “implied consent law.” It states that by obtaining a driver’s license, you consent to have your BAC tested if you are stopped for drunk driving. If you refuse to take a BAC breath, your license will be suspended for one year.
What Is the Difference Between a DWI and a DUI in New Jersey?
DWI stands for “driving while intoxicated,” while DUI stands for “driving under the influence.” The state does not distinguish between either crime, as both involve operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. Because of this, people usually use the terms DUI and DWI interchangeably. They are both prosecuted under the same statute, N.J.S.A. 39:4-50.
Is a DUI a Felony in New Jersey?
Because New Jersey does not consider a DUI to be an “indictable offense,” it is typically not considered a felony. Rather, a DUI in New Jersey is usually considered a serious traffic violation. However, it could be raised to an indictable offense under certain circumstances.
How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost?
The cost of a New Jersey DUI lawyer’s service can vary. For example, cases in which a defendant is a repeat offender can cost more than one in which the defendant is facing charges for a first-time offense. However, when seeking an attorney for a DUI matter, you should be wary of several things:
- An attorney’s fees should be governed by the number of years of experience and positive client outcomes. Look to a DUI lawyer’s client reviews and case results for insight.
- The lower an attorney’s fee, the less likely the attorney’s commitment to providing an adequate defense or a favorable result.
- While jail time is possible for a DUI case, it’s rarely an imposed penalty. If your lawyer frequently brings up exposure to jail, they’re not being effective counsel and are not worth whatever fee they charge.
- Many attorneys will charge unreasonable, exorbitant fees because of their massive marketing and advertising efforts — costs that must be passed on to the client. The best attorneys are the ones who generate referrals from repeat clients.
- If a DUI lawyer charges you an initial consultation fee, that’s a sign that they’re looking out for their own interests, not yours.
The Law Office of Steven Ellman believes you shouldn’t have to pay anything just to figure out your next move following a DUI arrest. Instead, Steven Ellman provides a free, in-depth consultation for all cases. He can review your situation, go over your legal rights, and give you the answers you need, including lawyer fees. This way, you can decide what makes sense for you.