Driving under the influence or DUI is a severe offense that can have long-lasting consequences on your life. A DUI conviction will stay on your driving record. But it won’t appear on your criminal record. New Jersey law considers the amount of time that exists between convictions to determine the level of offense a person faces. For instance, if it has been ten years since your last DUI conviction, you can be sentenced with first-offense penalties. But if you are convicted of DUI more than three times, the amount of time between convictions no longer matters.
An experienced New Jersey DUI Attorney can help you understand your legal options. They can educate you about possible consequences of a conviction and the effects of subsequent DUI convictions on your record.
What Does a DUI Conviction Mean?
A DUI conviction can have long-term consequences that go beyond the legal penalties. These consequences include the following:
- Increase in insurance premiums. If you are convicted of DUI, your insurance premiums can increase. In fact, a DUI conviction can make it hard to get insurance coverage. Insurers will view you as a high-risk driver.
- Professional license suspension or revocation. A DUI conviction can result in license suspension or revocation. As a result, you may have difficulty getting a job in your preferred field.
- Loss of employment opportunities. A lot of employers perform background checks on job candidates. A DUI conviction may impact your chances of getting job opportunities.
- Reputation damage. With a DUI conviction, your reputation and relationships can be affected. This conviction may result in embarrassment or impact your community standing.
- Zero chances of expungement. Because a DUI conviction is not a crime in New Jersey, it cannot be expunged. A DUI conviction will be on your driving record forever.
Why Working with a Lawyer is Important
The consequences of a DUI conviction can be immediate or long-term. It’s important to understand how long a conviction remains on your record, so you can navigate its possible implications on your life. As a driver, you should make responsible choices and do not drive while under the influence of a substance. This will guarantee your safety and other people’s safety.
If you are facing DUI charges, contact a DUI attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney can help you as you navigate the state’s legal processes. They can investigate your case to build a strong defense strategy as you pursue the best outcome in your case.