When someone commits a DWI in a school zone they are exposed to enhanced penalties. If you were arrested for operating a vehicle in violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-50g, you definitely need to find the best DWI attorney you can afford. A school zone conviction results in a minimum license suspension of one year, as well as jail, for even a first offense. The consequences escalate sharply if it is a second offense or third offense, even resulting in an additional 180 days of jail and 20 years loss of your privilege to drive. It also is no defense that you were unaware that you were driving in this protected area, that children were not present or that school was not in session. It should be clear from the severity of this offense that you absolutely need to retain a lawyer and preferably one that is skilled in this area. At The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, we have defended countless motorists accused of school zone DWI and, more importantly, with success. Our staff handles this charge throughout the region including Bound Brook, Readington, Bridgewater, Franklin Township and Raritan. Contact our office online or by calling 908-722-1011 for an immediate consultation.
DUI in a School Zone Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50g
There are certain key components of this law that you should be aware of it you have been charged with driving while intoxicated in a school zone. The first thing you want to know is how “school zone” is defined. In this regard, the violation applies if the accused operated a motor vehicle: (1) within 1,000 feet of property owned or leased by a school or school board and used for school purposes; (2) within a school crossing as designated by municipal ordinance or resolution; or (3) within a non-designated school crossing with knowledge that juveniles are present. The second important consideration for you is the additional heightened ramifications that apply if your attorney is unable to escape the school zone offense. If you are convicted you will face, among other penalties, the following. For a first offense, there is a fine of $500-$800, license suspension of 1-2 years, and go to jail for as many as 60 days. A second offense results in fines of $1,000-$2,000, 4 years revocation, and 4-180 days in jail. A third offense carries a $2,000 fine, license suspension of 20 years and 180 days in the county jail. You will also be subject to an Intoxicated Drivers Resource Commission obligation, community service, ignition interlock, and mandatory financial assessments in most cases.
DWI in a School Zone Defense Lawyer
Whether this is your first offense or you are someone facing a third offense, we certainly have the skill set to effectively represent you. We have successfully defended hundreds of individuals charged with DUI and DWI in Clinton, South Bound Brook, Branchburg, North Plainfield and other municipal courts in Somerset and Hunterdon County. The key to achieving a favorable result is a combination of dedication to reaching the most favorable outcome and unique training and experience. We invest all of our muscle and resources in every case so that a school zone conviction is averted. For a one on one consultation with a defense lawyer on our team, call us anytime 24/7 at 908-722-1011.
