Morristown, NJ criminal defense lawyer Blair R. Zwillman discusses the likely penalties for a first-time DUI in New Jersey. He explains that the penalties for DWI in New Jersey have recently changed in a way that, in some respects, benefits drivers. Previously, a first offender typically faced a mandatory license suspension of at least six months. Under the new rules, however, many first-time offenders, after conviction or a guilty plea, are instead required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle for a set period—anywhere from three months to as long as twelve months, depending on the circumstances—along with paying other financial penalties.

He notes that the ignition interlock is a device installed in the defendant’s vehicle at their own expense. It connects to the ignition system and requires the driver to blow into a mouthpiece before the car will start. If alcohol is detected on the breath, the vehicle will not start. The device is installed only in the vehicle the individual drives and is designed to prevent someone who has recently consumed alcohol from operating a motor vehicle.

He emphasizes that this change is not a “free pass.” There are still significant financial penalties, and a DWI conviction almost always affects insurance rates. The legislature’s intent, he explains, is clear: the priority is keeping impaired drivers off the road. By ensuring that anyone with alcohol in their system cannot start their car, the interlock serves the same protective function as a license suspension.

He also points out an important exception: if a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.15 or higher, a first offense still carries a four- to six-month license suspension in addition to the interlock requirement. For second and third offenses, as in most states, the penalties increase significantly, reflecting the seriousness of repeat violations.