In New Jersey, a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charge is a serious matter that leads to significant, far-reaching consequences. If you are facing a DWI charge, you are likely wondering how long this mistake is going to haunt you and what kind of mess it will make for your future. DWI offenses are handled differently regarding recordkeeping and the possibility of ever wiping them clean, setting them apart from other violations. Please continue reading to learn how long a DWI remains on your driving and legal record, and how an experienced Gloucester County DWI Lawyer can help shield you from an uncertain future.
What is Considered a DWI in New Jersey?
A DWI offense refers to operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at or above the legal limit (0.08%) or while impaired by certain controlled substances. It is important to note that a DWI in New Jersey is generally classified as a traffic offense, not a criminal one. Consequently, these cases are often handled in municipal court rather than criminal courts.
How Long Does a DWI Stay on Your Driving Record?
A DWI conviction in New Jersey is typically a permanent stain on your driving record, meaning it will remain visible to law enforcement and courts for a lifetime. When determining penalties for subsequent DWI offenses, New Jersey utilizes a 10-year lookback period. This is known as the Ten-Year-Step-Down Rule. If more than ten years pass between a current and prior DWI conviction, the penalties for the new offense may be significantly reduced during sentencing.
While DWIs are not criminal charges, these case files are still public records in municipal court. Additionally, some background checks might dig up DWI information, which could hurt your chances of getting a job. DWI convictions are usually not eligible for expungement.
What Are the Consequences of a DWI on Your Record?
Being charged with a DWI can seriously mess up your life. Your driver’s license will likely get suspended, or you could end up having to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle. Furthermore, your insurance rates will skyrocket, as insurance providers will now classify you as a “high-risk” motorist.
If your current job requires you to drive, you may run into some serious trouble. The severity of the consequences usually depends on the unique factors of your case, like whether this is your first offense, how high your BAC level was, and if you had any other charges, like reckless driving, thrown in.
Given that DWIs have lasting consequences, it is in your best interest to connect with an attorney at The Vigilante Law Firm for a consultation. Our legal team is prepared to help you develop a robust defense strategy and fight for the best possible outcome. Contact us today if you need an effective legal team to explore all defenses to fight your DWI charge.
