DUI Defense Attorney in Union County, NJ

If you have been arrested for driving while intoxicated, it is very important to choose a competent and aggressive lawyer with skill and experience. You want a DUI lawyer who is respected by police, judges and prosecutors.

I am Anthony N. Palumbo, a partner at The Law Offices of Anthony N. Palumbo with offices in Cranford, Elizabeth, Essex and Monmouth County, New Jersey. I am an experienced drunk driving lawyer who has handled countless DUI cases over more than 35 years of legal practice.

Contact me today to learn how we can help you win your case at 908-272-9700, or if you are seeking information about changes to New Jersey’s DUI/DWI law. I am here to answer all of your questions.

Everything You Need To Know About Your DUI Charge:

Whether you think you are guilty or not, never talk to the police. No matter how much an officer encourages your “cooperation,” or how insignificant the question seems, always stay quiet. Keeping quiet is harder than it sounds, but it is the one critical thing that you can do for your defense.

What Happens When You Are Convicted Of DUI In New Jersey?

Because of the seriousness of DWI charges, a conviction will have a big impact on your life. It pays to have an experienced attorney on your side.

Aside from a criminal record, a conviction can lead to serious penalties such as:

Jail time
Fines
Installation of an ignition interlock device on your car
Potential loss of your driver’s license
Increased car insurance rates
Mandatory attendance at alcohol education programs
Community service

Ignition Interlock Devices And License Suspension

If you are convicted of drunk driving, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) into your vehicle. Your license will likely be suspended until you install this device. The requirements for installing an IID differ depending on the amount of alcohol you have in your system when you are tested.

If your blood-alcohol content (BAC) tested above 0.08% but below 0.10%, the device must remain installed for three months.
If you tested above 0.10% but below 0.15%, the device must remain in place for seven to 12 months.
If you tested above 0.15%, your license will remain suspended for four to six months after you install the device. After the suspension period, the device must remain installed in your vehicle for nine to 15 months.

There will also be a separate municipal court hearing to determine whether you will get a fine or jail time. It is very important to be represented by a DUI attorney at this hearing. With the help of The Law Offices of Anthony N. Palumbo, it may be possible to minimize the penalties you face.

Can You Fight Breath Test Results?

The most common type of evidence the prosecutor has after a drinking and driving arrest is the breath test. These tests are not infallible. A qualified operator must administer the test, the correct chemicals must be used, and external factors such as radio interference can affect the machines.

I am highly experienced at working with qualified experts to examine the details of breath tests and determine whether their results can be challenged. It is only after I have examined every possibility for a dismissal of the drunk driving charges that there will be a discussion concerning the best possible plea bargain that might be obtained in your case.

An Example Of What I Can Do for You

I recently had a DUI case in which a young man was charged with DUI after blowing a .10% blood alcohol concentration (BAC). It was his second DUI offense. He was facing three months in jail, a two-year license suspension and thousands of dollars in fines. We went to trial, and I got him off with no jail time, $200 in fines, zero points on his license and a three-month license suspension. And this was his second DUI offense!

These are the kind of results I get for my clients. I won’t judge or lecture you on your behavior. My only concern is that you receive the results you need, and fast. Don’t wait to consult with a DUI defense attorney to learn your options.

Trust A DWI Attorney To Defend Your Driving Rights

You should always work with a proven DUI defense attorney whenever you are facing drunk driving charges. Learn more about what to do if you are pulled over for drunk driving, and contact me at 908-272-9700 to take the first step toward avoiding or reducing the consequences of a DUI or DWI conviction.

New Jersey DUI / DWI Charges and Defense – FAQs

What is the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in New Jersey?

The legal limit in New Jersey is 0.08% BAC. Drivers with a BAC of 0.08% or higher can be charged with DWI. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, any detectable alcohol can result in charges.

Can you be arrested for DUI if your BAC is below 0.08%?

Yes. If police believe your driving was impaired by alcohol or drugs—even if your BAC is below 0.08%—you can still face DUI charges.

What are the penalties for a first-time DUI in NJ?

Penalties vary by BAC level but may include:

Fines ($250–$500)
Ignition interlock device (IID) installation
License suspension (brief or none if IID installed)
12–48 hours at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC)
Insurance surcharges

Do I have to take a breathalyzer test in NJ?

Yes. New Jersey’s implied consent law means refusing a breath test results in license suspension, fines, and mandatory IID use—even if you’re not convicted of DWI.

Can you challenge a breathalyzer result in court?

Yes. A defense attorney can challenge the accuracy of the machine, calibration records, or whether the test was administered properly.

What are the penalties for repeat DWI offenses?

Second offense: 1–2 year license suspension, 48 hours to 90 days in jail, IID use for 2–4 years.
Third offense: 8-year license suspension, 180 days in jail (can include inpatient rehab), IID for 2–4 years.

Does a DWI stay on your record in NJ?

Yes. DWI convictions do not disappear automatically, but under NJ’s 10-year step-down rule, an old offense more than 10 years prior may reduce the severity of sentencing on a new charge.

Will a DWI affect my job?

Possibly. Commercial drivers may lose CDL privileges. Other jobs that require a clean record or driving may be impacted. Some employers may terminate or decline to hire those with a DWI.

Can out-of-state drivers be charged with DWI in NJ?

Yes. New Jersey can report the DWI to your home state, and your license may be suspended there too depending on local laws.

Should I hire a DUI lawyer for a first offense?

Yes. A knowledgeable DUI lawyer can help reduce penalties, challenge evidence, and possibly avoid a conviction altogether.