Ground Breaking Change in Law on the Horizon for Convicted DUI Drivers in New Jersey

Currently, if you are convicted in New Jersey for a DUI/DWI there is a mandatory loss of license that must be imposed by the Judge with no exception.   New Jersey is currently 1 of only 2 States that does not provide any exception to drive after being a convicted DUI offender.  However, this could now all be changing.

On February 5th 2015, The New Jersey State Senate passed Bill A 1368 by near unanimous support, and the Bill has moved on to the Governor’s desk.  If signed, this Bill will allow a Judge discretion for the first time to impose an interlock ignition device instead of taking away a driver’s license for a convicted DUI/DWI offender. The Judge must consider numerous factors including past record, circumstances of the offense, level of intoxication among many other factors when making this final decision.  If granted by the Judge, after a 10-day license suspension, this interlock device would be installed in the principal vehicle driven, requiring a breath sample being submitted prior to the car starting.

Research from other states has shown the use of an interlock device drastically reduces accidents and subsequent offenses, while allowing people to continue to work and support their families.  No word has been released yet on the timing of when the Governor will review this bill, but with the overwhelming bipartisan support from the Legislature, and the support of M.A.D.D., it appears a high likelihood that this bill will be signed.

Hopefully you will never find yourself in this position, but should you ever face a DUI or other Criminal matter, please feel free to contact the Law Offices of David W. Polsky. (973) 686-9787 I always offer a free consultation, and will be happy to review your matter and explain to you all of your legal options that you have.