In New Jersey, driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that carries harsh penalties, including jail time, loss of driving privileges, and hefty fines. A conviciton for such an offense will stay on your record for years, making it difficult to secure gainful employment, rent an apartment, or obtain affordable auto insurance. Given the potential long-term consequences of a DUI, it’s in your best interest to contact our experienced Bergen County DUI Attorneys who can help you develop a defense strategy and protect your rights. Please continue reading to learn whether a DUI will follow you to another state.
Does a DUI Follow You From State to State?
If you have been convicted of DUI in one state, you may be concerned that it will follow you if you move to another state. Generally, if you are convicted of a DUI in one state and then move to another, the DUI will transfer to the new state. Essentially, this means that you will be subject to the same penalties and driving restrictions as in the state where the DUI occurred. It’s important to note that each state has its laws regarding DUI, so a conviction in one state doesn’t automatically mean a conviction in another. Some states have
New Jersey participates in the Interstate Driver’s License Compact (IDLC), which is an agreement used by 45 states to exchange infromation concerning license suspensions and traffic violations of non-residents and forward them to the home state. This means that if a New Jersey resident is convicted of a DUI in another state, New Jersey will be notified of their conviction. The home state will usually honor the length of New Jersey’s suspension and possibly impose a separate suspension in addition. This reciprocity agreement means the home state will treat the offense as if it had been committed at home.
Can You Fight a DUI That Was Issued in Another State?
As mentioned above, some states have reciprocity agreements, meaning they will honor each other’s DUI charges. Other states, such as Georgia, Tennessee, Massachusetts, and Michigan don’t have these agreements, which means that you may be able to figth the charge if you believe it was issued unfairly. The difference between state laws regarding DUI cases is complex as the penalties can range from a traffic violation to a felony charge. That said, if you are planning on driving in a different state, it’s important to familiarize yourself with their state laws. The most effective way to fight your charges is to enlist the help of a seasoned Bergen County DUI attorney who can help you understand your rights and options.
At The Law Office of Carl Spector, we are prepared to help you build a strong defense against the charges and effectively represent your interests. Connect with our dedicated team today to learn how we can assist you during these difficult times.
