A DUI conviction in New Jersey can lead to pretty severe penalties, depending on the circumstances. Many DUI offenders lose their driving privileges for a period of time, which can be frustrating if you need reliable transportation for your daily obligations. As a result, some DUI offenders might try to still drive with a suspended license, which is sometimes called driving under suspension. However, this action can come with severe consequences. Thankfully, our effective law firm is on your side! Read this blog to find out how a Bergen County, New Jersey DUI Lawyer today for individualized legal counseling.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I’M CAUGHT DRIVING UNDER SUSPENSION AFTER A DUI CONVICTION IN NJ?
Most of the time when a police officer catches someone with a suspended license, they’re given a misdemeanor traffic offense. However, it’s different if your license was suspended because of a DUI conviction. You’ll more than likely be arrested if you’re found driving under suspension after a DUI charge, and you’ll be indicted for a felony offense. This can have serious consequences.
WHAT PENALTIES CAN I FACE?
A felony is no laughing matter. The penalties you face for driving under suspension could potentially be harsher than the penalties you were dealt for your DUI conviction. You’ll be penalized with heavy fines and mandatory jail time. Specifically, you’ll be given 180 days of incarceration with no possibility of parole and at least $10,000 worth of fines, and those are the minimum penalties. Depending on your situation, you could face even harsher punishments for a felony offense. This is why you need a talented DUI lawyer to protect you.
DOES NEW JERSEY OFFER HARDSHIP LICENSES?
Some states offer hardships licenses (also called conditional licenses) for people with a suspended license. This allows those who need reliable transportation to still meet their daily obligation while their license is still suspended. With a hardship license, you can legally drive but only under certain conditions, such as only driving during daylight hours. Unfortunately, though, New Jersey courts currently do not offer any type of conditional licenses for DUI offenders. This means that if you lose your license, you won’t be able to legally drive until it’s reinstated. You can speak with a DUI lawyer to learn more about your options.
Have you recently been caught driving with a suspended license after a DUI conviction? Are you seeking a dedicated criminal defense attorney who has your best interests in mind? Look no further because the Law Office of E. Gregory Cannarozzi is here to fight for you! Contact our highly experienced team today for an initial consultation.