Driving While Intoxicated Lawyer Union County — What Are Your Options?
A Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charge in Union County, NJ, is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50, carrying penalties like license suspension, fines, and potential jail time. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these charges. If you need a driving while intoxicated lawyer near me Union County, our firm offers 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your case.
New Jersey DWI Law and Penalties
In New Jersey, Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 39:4-50. The law prohibits operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic, or habit-producing drugs. New Jersey uses a tiered penalty system based on BAC level and whether it is a first, second, or third offense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
The firm was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, bringing a unique perspective to building defenses against DWI charges.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. 39:4-50 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures and forms can be found at the Superior Court of New Jersey, Union Vicinage website.
Handling a Union County DWI Case
DWI cases in Union County are heard in the Superior Court, Law Division, Municipal Appeals section or the local municipal court where the offense occurred. The process begins with an arraignment, followed by pre-trial conferences where evidence like breathalyzer calibration records and officer reports is reviewed. An affordable driving while intoxicated lawyer Union County can challenge the stop’s legality, the accuracy of field sobriety tests, and the maintenance of breath-testing devices.
- Secure your ticket and any paperwork from the arrest.
- Contact a Driving While Intoxicated lawyer Union County immediately to protect your driving privileges.
- Your attorney will request discovery, including police reports and breathalyzer maintenance logs.
- Attend all court dates or have your attorney appear on your behalf for pre-trial motions.
- Based on the evidence, your lawyer will advise on pursuing a plea negotiation or taking the case to trial.
Potential Penalties for a NJ DWI
In Union County, a DWI conviction carries mandatory penalties including license suspension, significant fines, and possible jail time, with severity increasing for repeat offenses.
| Offense | License Suspension | Fine | Jail | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense (BAC 0.08% but less than 0.10%) | 3 months | $250-$400 | Up to 30 days | IDRC program, $1000+ in surcharges |
| First Offense (BAC 0.10% or higher) | 7 months to 1 year | $300-$500 | Up to 30 days | IDRC program, $1000+ in surcharges |
| Second Offense | 2 years | $500-$1,000 | 48 hours to 90 days | IDRC, ignition interlock, $1000+ surcharges |
| Third Offense | 10 years | $1,000 | 180 days | IDRC, ignition interlock, $1500+ surcharges |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Background in DWI Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled over firm-wide 4,739 cases with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+. Our approach is informed by Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor, providing insight into how the other side builds its case.
Case Experience in New Jersey
While specific case counts for Union County DWI are not separately verified, our firm’s extensive history includes defending clients against serious traffic and criminal charges throughout New Jersey. We focus on scrutinizing the evidence, from the initial traffic stop to the administration of chemical tests.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Jersey Location
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-3900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Union County courts. We represent individuals from Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield. For a driving while intoxicated lawyer near me Union County, call for a 24/7 phone consultation. Meetings are by appointment only.
Driving While Intoxicated Lawyer Union County FAQ
Will I lose my license immediately after a DWI arrest in NJ?
No, not immediately. Your license is not physically taken at the arrest. However, you have only a short window to act. You will face suspension if convicted, and you must be notified of the suspension date by the court. An attorney can advise on potential interim driving privileges.
Can I refuse a breath test in New Jersey?
It depends, but refusal carries severe penalties. New Jersey’s implied consent law means driving is conditional on submitting to a breath test. Refusal leads to separate charges, including a 7-month to 20-year license revocation and large fines, independent of the DWI outcome. The state can also use your refusal as evidence of guilt.
What is the difference between DUI and DWI in New Jersey?
New Jersey law uses only the term “Driving While Intoxicated” (DWI). There is no separate “DUI” charge. The statute, N.J.S.A. 39:4-50, covers impairment by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. The penalties are the same regardless of the intoxicating substance.
How much does a DWI lawyer cost in Union County?
The cost varies based on the case’s complexity, such as whether it’s a first or repeat offense, if an accident occurred, or if the BAC was very high. Many firms, including ours, offer flexible payment structures. An affordable driving while intoxicated lawyer Union County will provide a clear fee agreement after reviewing your specific situation.
Is jail time mandatory for a first DWI in NJ?
No. For a standard first offense, jail time is possible (up to 30 days) but not mandatory. The court has discretion. However, certain aggravating factors, like having a minor in the car or causing an accident, can increase the likelihood of jail time being imposed.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles related matters. Learn about your options for a DUI lawyer in Union County or a federal criminal lawyer in Union County. For a broader view of our New Jersey practice, visit our New Jersey civil litigation hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Bergen County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current guidance regarding your Driving While Intoxicated charge in Union County.