Underage DWI

New Jersey DWI Defense Attorneys

The Moriarty Law Firm has seen DWI and DUI law in New Jersey from both sides of the fence. Charles Moriarty is a former Prosecutor and a well known DWI Defense Attorney. This gives our firm a unique perspective on how these matters are handled at all levels.

Call (732) 842-7773 anytime to speak with one of the Moriartys and set up a free initial consultation. You can also contact us by e-mail, and we will respond as quickly as possible.

Underage Drivers and DWI

Being charged with a DWI when you are under 21 years of age can have serious consequences. In New Jersey, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to drive while under the influence of any alcohol whatsoever. So, as opposed to a normal DWI, if the individual’s Blood Alcohol Content is .01% or higher, the driver will be charged with Underage Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). The penalties associated with an Underage DWI (where the BAC is between .01% and .08%) are between thirty (30) days and ninety (90) days license suspension. If the individual’s BAC is higher than .08%, the driver is facing the normal suspensions for adult DWI offenders.

The New Jersey statute governing Underage DWI is N.J.S.A. 39:4-50.14 which reads in pertinent part:

§ 39:4-50.14. Penalties for underage person operating motor vehicle after consuming alcohol

Any person under the legal age to purchase alcoholic beverages who operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.01% or more, but less than 0.08%, by weight of alcohol in his blood, shall forfeit his right to operate a motor vehicle over the highways of this State or shall be prohibited from obtaining a license to operate a motor vehicle in this State for a period of not less than 30 or more than 90 days beginning on the date he becomes eligible to obtain a license or on the day of conviction, whichever is later, and shall perform community service for a period of not less than 15 or more than 30 days.

In addition, the person shall satisfy the program and fee requirements of an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center or participate in a program of alcohol education and highway safety as prescribed by the chief administrator.

The penalties provided under the provisions of this section shall be in addition to the penalties which the court may impose under N.J.S.A. 2C:33-15, R.S. 33:1-81, R.S. 39:4-50 or any other law.

Call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to handle your DWI matter. We can be reached anytime by calling (732) 842-7773. You can also contact us by e-mail for a free consultation.