Greystone Park, NJ DUI and DWI Law Firms & Lawyers

the actual charge is having an 'open alcohol container' in the vehicle. the charge can be for the passenger or for the driver. one need not be driving the car for this charge.  were you also charged with 'operating the vehicle' ? ed dimon, esq.

Max is one year. What WILL happen is up to your attorney to negotiate in a plea bargain. First offense generally can avoid jail, but the more extreme the violation and blood alcohol, the more concern you should have about jail. A little free advice: When arrested for DUI, whether alcohol or drugs, then upon release from jail or booking the defendant is given documents that include a notice that you have only ten days to file a request with DMV for a hearing on an appeal of the automatic suspension of your license imposed by DMV upon your arrest. That is separate and runs consecutively with any suspension that may be imposed by the DMV, or the court upon conviction. Contact DMV and do so, timely if you think you have grounds for appeal, then appear at the scheduled DMV appeal hearing and present any supporting evidence and testimony. If you don't know how to do these things effectively, then hire an attorney that does. When arrested or charged with any crime, the proper questions are, can you be convicted, and what can you do? Effective plea-bargaining, using those defenses, could possibly reduce the potential time and other penalties you face. If you don't know how to represent yourself effectively against an experienced prosecutor intending to convict, then hire an attorney who does, who will try to get a dismissal, charge reduction, diversion, program, or other decent outcome through plea bargain, or take it to trial if appropriate.

You could be charged in both a criminal complaint and a civil complaint if your actions cause the death or serious injury to another person. The consequences would be significant. Ed Dimon, Esq. 732-797-1600