Among the multitude of questions that may arise when you have been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in New Jersey, one of the most prominent is whether or not you will be required to participate in alcohol or drug education programs as part of your sentence. Drunk or drugged driving offenses should not be taken lightly, as they can result in harsh penalties that impact various aspects of your life. Please continue reading to learn the potential legal repercussions of a DUI and how our experienced Bergen County DUI Attorneys can help shield you from an uncertain future.
Do I Need to Participate in Alcohol or Drug Education Programs for a DUI in New Jersey?
A conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) carries a range of serious penalties that can have a lasting impact on your personal and professional life. The severity of the penalties you can be subjected to depends on numerous factors, including your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), prior convictions, and other aggravating circumstances. The penalties you can face for a first-offense DUI in New Jersey include:
- A fine between $250 and $400
- A $125 DUI surcharge
- A $100 DDEF surcharge
- Up to $33 in court fees
- $75 for SNSF
- $50 for VCCO
- Up to 30 days in jail
- Loss of driver’s license until an ignition interlock device is installed in your vehicle
- Installation of an ignition interlock device for three months
- Mandatory participation in substance education programs
What Happens at the IDRC?
The Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) is a court-ordered program for those convicted of DUI or drug-related driving offenses. The program aims to reduce recidivism rates and promote road safety by educating participants about the dangers of impaired driving. This program plays a vital role in New Jersey’s efforts to combat drunk and drugged driving and ensure motorists make responsible choices while behind the wheel.
Upon conviction, you will receive a scheduling notice from the New Jersey Intoxicated Driving Program (IDP). Depending on the unique circumstances of your case, you may be required to attend a 12 or 48-hour IDRC program in your county. Those sentenced to a 12-hour program will be detained and screened for risk. The requirement is satisfied by attending an early intervention educational program for a minimum of six hours per day for two consecutive days.
Those sentenced to a 48-hour program will also be detained and screened for risk. This program is more intensive, requiring attendance at an early intervention educational program for 48 consecutive hours in a regional facility. If you are convicted of a third or subsequent offense, you may be referred for a full substance abuse disorder assessment. If treatment is recommended, you will need to complete treatment as part of your sentence.
Those who fail to satisfy the requirements of their sentence will be reported to the court. This could potentially result in two days in jail and an additional period of license suspension until such requirements are satisfied. For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact a knowledgeable attorney from The Law Office of Carl Spector. We understand that your future is on the line. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can fight for you.
