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DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, is the crime of operating a vehicle while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. This is a serious offense in New Jersey and can result in dire consequences like extensive property damage, injury, and even death. A third DUI is one that occurs within 10 years of the individual’s second offense. A third or subsequent DUI will be met with various penalties including jail time, fines, and more. For representation during your case work with an experienced Mercer County repeat offender DUI lawyer. Reach out today to schedule your free consultation and begin discussing your situation with a skilled attorney.
What Are the Penalties for a Third DUI Offense in NJ?
With every DUI arrest the penalties increase. After a third arrest, the person is considered a repeat offender, so the consequences of a conviction will be more severe than the first or second time they got behind the wheel while intoxicated.
New Jersey’s penalties for a third DUI include the following.
- Fines of $1,000 or more
- Up to 90 days of mandatory community service
- A mandatory 12 to 48-hour stay in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
- Up to $4,500 in auto insurance surcharges over 3 years
- A license suspension of up to 10 years
- Mandatory use of an ignition interlock device
- A minimum of 180 days in jail
Because of the severity of the crime, the associated penalties are harsh. Penalties for crimes are designed to penalize the liable party and prevent them, or other individuals, from engaging in similar illegal activities again. A repeat offender will face more severe consequences because they will have proven that they did not learn or grow after their first two offenses.
How Long Will I Be Sentenced to Jail for My Third DUI?
The actual time you will be sentenced to jail will vary depending on several factors. Under New Jersey state law individuals convicted of a third or subsequent DUI must serve at least 180 days, or 6 months, in jail. Depending on aggravating or mitigating factors you may be required to serve additional time or have your sentence reduced.
NJ law allows individuals to serve 90 days of their 180-day sentence in an inpatient facility. If a court rules on this you may only have to serve half of the minimum sentence physically in jail. However, if someone was injured as a result of your DUI, you had a minor in the car, or other aggravating factors were present, you may face a longer sentence.
Contact a DUI Defense Lawyer
Preventing a third DUI conviction can help you avoid hefty fines, imprisonment, and other life-altering consequences. Finding an attorney you can trust to help build your case and defend you in court is crucial in being found not guilty. Reach out to a skilled lawyer for more information and legal advice during your case.
