In many instances, drivers are unaware of the DWI (driving while intoxicated) or DUI (driving under the influence) rules and regulations when it comes to an incident that happened outside their home state. The precise rules and regulations are specific to each state’s laws and DMV (Department of Motor Vehicle) but, if a New Jersey driver is sentenced with a DWI/DUI in another state, it is the same as being charged in New Jersey. All states but five (Massachusetts, Michigan, Wisconsin, Georgia, and Tennessee) have agreed to and signed the Driver’s License Compact. This agreement between the states effectively treats vehicular offenses committed in other states as if they were executed in the home state. Therefore, as long as the driver’s home state has a “substantially similar” statute to the statute the driver violated, the home state will treat it as if the offense occurred within the home state.
If you are facing the above situation, do not wait to reach out to our firm today to speak with our reliable and experienced Gloucester County DWI lawyer.
What are the penalties for an out-of-state DWI in New Jersey?
The consequences New Jersey drivers can encounter for being convicted in another state for DWI/DUI can be serious. The driver’s license will likely be suspended in the state of the incident for the length of time specified by the statute and surcharges may apply. Additionally, the state-of-incident will then report the vehicular offense to the driver’s home state in order for the home state or DMV to apply its punishment. This can indicate a suspension of the driver’s license in the home state, fines and surcharges, and the more strict penalties that come with subsequent offenses or higher BACs (ignition interlock device, community service, prison time). Keep in mind that being punished in both the state-of-incident and the home state is constitutional and does not break the double jeopardy provision of the Fifth Amendment in the United States Constitution.
What if I have a subsequent or prior offense?
If a driver receives a DWI/DUI in New Jersey after being penalized for the same offense in another state, New Jersey will likely deem the driver as a two-time offender. This implies that even though it may be the driver’s first DWI/DUI in New Jersey, the driver will not be punished as a first-time offender. The rules are identical for an out-of-state driver getting convicted of a DWI/DUI in New Jersey. There are certain exceptions to this, but they are complex and the counsel of an attorney is advised.
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The dedicated and compassionate attorneys at Vigilante Law Firm, P.C. would be happy to provide you with assistance in your case and help you protect your future when so much is on the line. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
