Truck Driver DUI Lawyer Somerset County — Protecting Your Commercial License
A DUI charge in Somerset County, New Jersey, threatens your commercial driver’s license (CDL) and livelihood under N.J.S.A. 39:3-10.13. A conviction carries a mandatory 1-year CDL disqualification for a first offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for commercial drivers. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results. A truck driver DUI lawyer from our team understands the heightened stakes for your career.
New Jersey DUI Law for Commercial Drivers
New Jersey law imposes stricter standards and penalties for holders of a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The statute governing CDL disqualifications is N.J.S.A. 39:3-10.13. For CDL holders, a DUI arrest or conviction triggers federal and state penalties that are separate from standard DUI consequences.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex traffic defense cases, including those involving commercial licenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of New Jersey’s traffic statutes, visit the New Jersey Legislature’s official site. Court information for Somerset County can be found at the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage website.
Defense Strategy for Somerset County CDL Holders
In Somerset County, CDL DUI cases are heard in the Municipal Court located at 20 North Bridge Street in Somerville. The procedural reality for commercial drivers is that any detectable alcohol level below 0.04% BAC can lead to an out-of-service order and a DUI charge if you appear impaired. A common defense involves challenging the initial traffic stop’s legality or the accuracy and administration of field sobriety and breath tests. The prosecution must prove you were operating the commercial vehicle while impaired.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Contact a DUI defense attorney Somerset County immediately after arrest. Do not discuss the case with anyone before speaking to your lawyer.
- Document Everything: Write down all details of the stop, the officer’s questions, and the tests administered while your memory is fresh.
- Request a DMV Hearing: You have a limited time to request an administrative hearing to contest the CDL disqualification. Your attorney will handle this.
- Case Analysis & Strategy: Your drunk driving defense lawyer Somerset County will review the police report, dash/body cam footage, and calibration records for the breathalyzer to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
- Court Representation: Your attorney will represent you at all pre-trial conferences and hearings in Somerset County Municipal Court, advocating for dismissal or reduction of charges.
Penalties for CDL DUI in New Jersey
In Somerset County, a DUI conviction for a CDL holder results in a mandatory 1-year disqualification of the commercial license for a first offense, alongside standard DUI fines and potential jail time.
| Offense | CDL Disqualification | Standard DUI Penalty | Fine Range | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First DUI (CDL Holder) | 1 year minimum | Up to 30 days jail | $250-$500 | 12-48 hours IDRC, $100 Drunk Driving Fund fee, $1,000/year 3-year surcharge, possible IID for personal vehicle. |
| Second DUI (CDL Holder) | Lifetime disqualification (may be reduced to 10 years) | 2-90 days jail | $500-$1,000 | 30 days community service, 2-year license suspension (standard), increased surcharges. |
| BAC 0.04%+ in CMV | 1 year (first), Lifetime (second) | DUI charges apply | See above | Out-of-service order for 24 hours at time of arrest. |
| Refusal of Breath Test (CDL) | 1 year minimum | 7-month – 1 year suspension (standard) | $300-$500 | Separate refusal charges with additional fines and suspension. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your CDL DUI Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With a combined attorney experience of over 120 years and a track record of 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide, we bring substantial resources to your defense. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how the state builds its cases. We serve clients across New Jersey, with specific knowledge of Somerset County court procedures.
Case Results for Traffic and DUI Defense
SRIS actively practices in Somerset County — firm-wide, our attorneys have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While every case is unique, our extensive experience includes successful challenges to DUI charges for commercial drivers, often resulting in reduced charges that preserve driving privileges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Somerset County Truck Driver DUI Lawyer
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Somerset County. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206, serving Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Truck Driver DUI Defense in Somerset County
Is a DUI worse for a truck driver in New Jersey?
Yes. A CDL holder faces a mandatory 1-year disqualification from operating a commercial vehicle for a first DUI, on top of standard fines and penalties. This is a federal requirement enforced by New Jersey law.
What is the legal BAC limit for a CDL holder in NJ?
It is 0.04% while operating a commercial motor vehicle, which is half the standard limit. A reading at or above this level will result in a DUI charge and CDL disqualification. You can also be charged with a standard DUI at 0.08% BAC.
Can I plead a CDL DUI down to a lesser charge in Somerset County?
It depends. Prosecutors are often reluctant due to the serious safety implications. However, an experienced truck driver DUI lawyer may negotiate a reduction if there are significant flaws in the state’s evidence, such as problems with the traffic stop or chemical test procedures.
How many points is a DUI on a CDL in New Jersey?
A DUI conviction itself does not add points to your driving record. However, it results in the mandatory CDL disqualification and a standard driver’s license suspension. Other moving violations issued alongside the DUI will carry points.
Should I refuse a breath test if I’m a truck driver?
No. Refusal carries its own mandatory penalties, including a separate 1-year CDL disqualification and additional license suspension. It also provides evidence prosecutors can use against you in court. You should comply and immediately contact a drunk driving defense lawyer Somerset County.
What happens after a CDL disqualification ends?
You must reinstate your CDL through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, which typically involves paying all outstanding fines and surcharges. A second DUI offense can lead to a lifetime disqualification.
Internal Resources: For more on our statewide practice, see our New Jersey Reckless Driving Lawyer hub. If you were charged in a neighboring county, our Hunterdon County Reckless Driving Lawyer page may be relevant. We also assist with related matters like Criminal Defense in Somerset County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If you want to see how a Somerset County case fits into the wider process, our page on truck driver dui lawyer New Jersey covers it from start to finish.