DUI Attorney Union County, NJ

Brett M. Rosen, Esq.: Your Union County, NJ DUI Defense Attorney

A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) arrest can turn your life upside down. The potential consequences – license suspension, fines, jail time, increased insurance rates, and a damaged reputation – are serious. If you’re facing DUI charges in Union County, New Jersey, having an experienced DUI defense attorney on your side is essential.

Brett M. Rosen, Esq., is a highly skilled criminal defense attorney with a proven track record of success in DUI cases throughout Union County. We understand the complexities of New Jersey DUI laws and will fight aggressively to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your life.

Why Choose Brett M. Rosen for Your Union County DUI Defense?

Local Expertise: Brett M. Rosen has in-depth knowledge of Union County courts, prosecutors, and DUI laws, giving you a home-field advantage.
Proven Track Record: With a history of successful DUI defense cases, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.
Compassionate Advocacy: We understand the stress and anxiety associated with a DUI charge. We will guide you through the legal process with empathy and support.
Aggressive Representation: Brett M. Rosen is a relentless advocate in the courtroom, fighting tirelessly to protect your driving privileges and freedom.
24/7 Availability: We are available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns.

Understanding New Jersey DUI Laws

New Jersey has strict DUI laws (NJSA 39:4-50) with harsh penalties. Even a first-time DUI conviction can result in:

License suspension: A minimum of 3 months for a first offense, increasing with subsequent offenses.
Fines: Up to $1,000 for a first offense, increasing with subsequent offenses.
Jail time: Up to 30 days for a first offense, increasing with subsequent offenses.
Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Required installation for certain offenses.
Alcohol education or treatment programs: Mandatory participation for certain offenses.

Offense	BAC Level	Fines	Jail Time	License Suspension	Ignition Interlock	IDRC Program	Insurance Surcharge
First Offense
	0.08 – 0.09%	$250 – $400	Up to 30 days	Until IID installed, then 3 months	3 months	12 hours	$1,000/year for 3 years
	0.10 – 0.14%	$300 – $500	Up to 30 days	Until IID installed, then 7 months to 1 year	7 months – 1 year	12 hours	$1,000/year for 3 years
	0.15% or higher	N/A	N/A	4-6 months, then 9-15 months after restoration	During suspension & 9-15 months after restoration	N/A	N/A
Second Offense	Any level	$500 – $1,000	2 – 90 days	Up to 2 years	Yes	Yes	Yes
Third or Subsequent Offense	Any level	$1,000+	Up to 180 days	8 years	Yes	Yes	Yes

The penalties increase significantly for repeat offenses and for cases involving aggravating factors, such as a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or an accident.

Possible DUI Defenses in Union County, New Jersey

Every DUI case is unique, and the most effective defense strategy will depend on the specific facts of your case. Some common DUI defenses include:

Improper Stop: Challenging the legality of the initial traffic stop.
Lack of Probable Cause: Arguing that the officer did not have sufficient reason to suspect you were driving under the influence.
Inaccurate Field Sobriety Tests: Questioning the reliability of field sobriety tests or the officer’s administration of them.
Breathalyzer Errors: Challenging the accuracy of the breathalyzer test due to calibration issues, operator error, or other factors.
Rising Blood Alcohol Defense: Arguing that your BAC was rising at the time of the test but was below the legal limit when you were driving.

New Jersey’s Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC): What You Need to Know

If you’ve been convicted of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) offense in New Jersey, you may encounter the term IDRC. This stands for Intoxicated Driver Resource Center, a key component of the state’s efforts to address drunk driving and promote road safety.

What is the IDRC Program?

The IDRC is a state-mandated program for individuals convicted of alcohol or drug-related driving offenses. It’s designed to:

Educate: Provide information about the dangers of impaired driving and the impact of substance abuse.
Screen: Assess whether participants may have substance abuse issues requiring further evaluation or treatment.
Refer: Connect individuals to appropriate resources for substance abuse treatment, if necessary.
Monitor: Track participants’ progress and compliance with court-ordered requirements.

Who is Required to Attend IDRC?

Typically, first-time DUI offenders in New Jersey are required to complete a 12-hour IDRC program, while repeat offenders or those with aggravating factors may face longer programs (e.g., 48 hours).

What Happens at IDRC?

The IDRC program typically involves:

Educational sessions: Covering topics like the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving, the legal consequences of DUI, and strategies for avoiding future offenses.
Screening assessments: To identify potential substance abuse problems and determine the need for further evaluation.
Referral to treatment: If necessary, participants may be referred to appropriate treatment providers for assessment and possible treatment.
Monitoring and reporting: The IDRC will track participants’ attendance and report any non-compliance to the court.

Why is IDRC Important?

The IDRC program plays a crucial role in New Jersey’s DUI system by:

Promoting public safety: By educating offenders and addressing potential substance abuse issues.
Reducing recidivism: Helping individuals understand the risks of impaired driving and providing resources for those struggling with addiction.
Fulfilling court requirements: Participation in IDRC is often a mandatory condition of sentencing for DUI offenders.

FAQs About DUI Charges in Union County, NJ

What should I do if I’m pulled over for suspicion of DUI? Be polite and cooperative, but invoke your right to remain silent and ask for an attorney. Do not answer any questions or perform any field sobriety tests without legal counsel present.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer test? You can refuse a breathalyzer test, but there are consequences. Your refusal will likely result in additional charge and possible license suspension and can be used as evidence against you in court.
How long will a DUI conviction stay on my record? A DUI conviction will remain on your driving record indefinitely. However, after 10 years, it will no longer count towards a subsequent DWI charge.
Will I lose my license for a DUI conviction? Yes, a DUI conviction will result in a mandatory license suspension, even for a first offense. The length of the suspension will depend on the specific circumstances of your case.
How much does it cost to hire a DUI attorney in Union County? Attorney fees vary depending on the complexity of the case and the attorney’s experience. Brett M. Rosen offers free consultations to discuss your case and provide you with a fee estimate.

Additional FAQs

Certainly, here are additional FAQs about DUIs in Union County, NJ, avoiding the ones you’ve already used:

DUI FAQs – Union County, NJ

Can I be charged with a DUI even if my blood alcohol content (BAC) is below the legal limit?

Yes. Even if your BAC is below the legal limit of 0.08%, you can still be charged with a DUI if the officer believes your driving was impaired due to alcohol or drugs. Evidence such as erratic driving, slurred speech, or failed field sobriety tests can be used to support a DUI charge.

What are the potential penalties for a first-time DUI conviction in New Jersey?

A first-time DUI conviction in New Jersey carries significant penalties, including:

License suspension: 3 months depending on your BAC
Fines: $250 – $400
Mandatory Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) attendance
Possible installation of an ignition interlock device
Increased insurance premiums

Will a DUI conviction affect my employment?

A DUI conviction can negatively impact your employment prospects, especially if you require a driver’s license for your job or if your employer has a strict policy regarding criminal offenses.

Can I expunge a DUI conviction from my record in New Jersey?

Unfortunately, DUI convictions are not eligible for expungement in New Jersey. It will remain on your record permanently.

What are some common defenses against DUI charges?

Several potential defenses can be raised against DUI charges, including:

Improper stop: If the police officer did not have a valid reason to pull you over, the evidence obtained during the stop may be inadmissible in court.
Inaccurate breathalyzer results: Breathalyzer machines can be subject to error due to improper calibration, maintenance, or operator error.
Rising blood alcohol defense: Your BAC may have been rising at the time of the test, potentially putting you over the legal limit even if you were below it while driving.
Lack of probable cause: The officer must have had probable cause to arrest you for DUI. If the evidence was insufficient, the arrest may be deemed illegal.

Contact Brett M. Rosen Today for a Free DUI Consultation

If you’re facing DUI charges in Union County, NJ, don’t delay. Contact Brett M. Rosen, Esq. today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options. We’re here to fight for your rights and help you navigate this difficult situation.

908-312-0368

brett@nynjcriminalcivilesq.com

100 Jefferson Avenue, Suite 301, Elizabeth, New Jersey

Remember, you have the right to an attorney. Don’t face the legal system alone.

I am satisfied with the way that Brett represented my case. He was on time, and went above and beyond to ensure that I was in good hands.

Roseann