If you have been caught driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol in the state of New Jersey, you must understand what penalties you may face. For instance, one DUI penalty is that you may end up losing your car. To learn more, continue reading and see how an experienced Morristown criminal defense lawyer at Graves Andrews, LLC can assist you in defending against these charges.
Will I end up losing my car after a DUI in the state of New Jersey?
The consequences you may face will depend largely on the circumstances of your DUI.
For example, if you are arrested for refusing to submit a breath test after being pulled over for suspicion of a DUI, your vehicle will be impounded by the law enforcement officer. After a 12-hour impoundment period, you will be able to reclaim your vehicle.
Or, in more serious DWI offenses, the New Jersey county will demand the forfeiture of your vehicle. In this case, you will have to attend a retention hearing and then post a bond. From here, the New Jersey county may file a summons and complaint regarding the seizure of your vehicle. It is important to note that until the prosecution of your case, there will be restrictions on what you can and cannot do with your vehicle. Your attorney may be granted an adjournment by the New Jersey county attorney once the summons and complaint are issued.
What are the possible defenses against losing my car after a DWI?
Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to fight against your vehicle revocation.
For example, if the revoked car is the only car that you and your family own, you may argue that its seizure would impose an unwarranted and substantial financial hardship on you and your family. Specifically, this financial hardship can be that you are now unable to commute to work and earn wages to support your family, among other situations.
To support this claim, you will need a sufficient amount of evidence. If you require assistance with your defense and in getting back your vehicle, it is in your best interest to retain the services of one of our skilled attorneys as soon as you can. We will ensure that you take the proper steps toward regaining your vehicle. Give us a call today.
Contact Our Experienced New Jersey Firm
Contact Graves Andrews, LLC to schedule an initial consultation with our experienced Morris County family law attorneys to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.