DUI Lawyer Bergen County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A DUI charge in Bergen County, New Jersey, is a serious traffic offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50, carrying penalties like license suspension, fines, and potential jail time. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these charges. If you need a DUI lawyer Bergen County, contact us at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide.
New Jersey DUI Law and Penalties
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
In New Jersey, driving under the influence (DUI) 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 impaired by alcohol, drugs, or hallucinogens. Unlike many states, New Jersey classifies DUI as a traffic offense, not a criminal misdemeanor, but the consequences are severe and can have long-lasting effects on your driving privileges, finances, and record. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the DUI statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 39:4-50 on the New Jersey Legislature website. Court procedures and local rules for Bergen County are available at the Superior Court of New Jersey, Bergen Vicinage official website.
Handling a DUI Case in Bergen County
All DUI cases in Bergen County are heard in the Municipal Court located within the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage at 10 Main Street, Hackensack. New Jersey’s DUI process is quasi-criminal, meaning you have the right to an attorney and a trial before a judge. A common defense strategy involves challenging the legality of the traffic stop or the administration and calibration of the breath test device.
- Receive the DUI summons and note your court date at the Bergen County Courthouse.
- Consult with a DUI lawyer Bergen County immediately to review the evidence, including police reports and breath test results.
- Your attorney may file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated during the stop or arrest.
- Attend your Municipal Court hearing, where your attorney will represent you in plea negotiations or at trial.
Potential Penalties for DUI in New Jersey
In Bergen County, a DUI conviction carries mandatory penalties including license suspension, fines, and potential jail time, with severity increasing for repeat offenses.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First DUI (BAC 0.08%–0.10%) | Traffic Offense | Up to 30 days | $250–$500 | 3-month suspension | 12–48 hours IDRC, $100 surcharges, possible IID* |
| First DUI (BAC 0.10%+) | Traffic Offense | Up to 30 days | $300–$500 | 7–12 month suspension | 12–48 hours IDRC, $100 surcharges, IID* |
| Second DUI (within 10 years) | Traffic Offense | 2–90 days | $500–$1,000 | 2-year suspension | 30 days community service, IID 1–3 years, $100 surcharges |
| Third DUI (within 10 years) | Traffic Offense | 180 days | $1,000 | 10-year suspension | IID during suspension & 1–3 years after, $100 surcharges |
*IID = Ignition Interlock Device. IDRC = Intoxicated Driver Resource Center.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with DUI Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to each case. We focus on building strong defenses for clients facing DUI charges, examining every detail from the initial traffic stop to chemical testing procedures.
Documented Case Results
SRIS actively practices in Bergen County — firm-wide, our attorneys have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our approach involves detailed case review and assertive representation in Municipal Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local DUI Defense Representation
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 Bergen County courts. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, and Route 17. If you are searching for a drunk driving defense lawyer Bergen County near the Garden State Plaza or MetLife Stadium, we are here to help. We serve communities including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Bergenfield, Garfield, Mahwah, Ramsey, and Lyndhurst. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many points is a DUI in New Jersey?
No. A DUI conviction in New Jersey does not add motor vehicle points. However, it carries severe separate penalties including mandatory license suspension, fines, and possible jail time. The lack of points does not make it less serious.
Can I refuse a breath test in New Jersey?
It depends. New Jersey has an implied consent law. Refusing a breath test leads to separate, additional penalties including a 7–12 month license suspension for a first offense and increased fines. A DUI defense attorney Bergen County can advise on the specific consequences and defenses related to a refusal charge.
What is the difference between DUI and DWI in New Jersey?
New Jersey law uses the term DUI (Driving Under the Influence). DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) is an older term that is not used in the current statute. Both refer to the same offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50.
Will I go to jail for a first-time DUI in Bergen County?
Maybe. The law allows for up to 30 days of incarceration for a first-time DUI. While jail time is not mandatory for a standard first offense, the judge has discretion to impose it, especially if aggravating factors are present, such as a very high BAC or an accident.
How long does a DUI stay on my record in NJ?
A DUI conviction remains on your New Jersey driving record permanently. There is no expungement or removal process for a DUI from your motor vehicle record. This can affect insurance rates for many years.
For more information, see our New Jersey traffic defense hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Morris County and Monmouth County. For other legal needs in Bergen County, consider our criminal defense or family law services.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.