| Drunk driving is one among the top criminal offenses in | | | | neighborhood service fund surcharge of $75 and a |
| the United States. DUIs represent the single largest | | | | physician's fee of $25. For first time offense, punitive |
| category of criminal offenses of all reported cases | | | | charges are comparatively mild but are substantial |
| occurring more frequently than larceny and theft. | | | | spread over many fees |
| During the 60's, driving under the influence of alcohol | | | | After being convicted of a DUI, the defender is caught |
| was considered a minor offence, leading to minor fines. | | | | in a circle of penalties. Consequences like license |
| Nevertheless, since 1990's, most states consider it a | | | | suspension, fines, community service, probation, and |
| major offense and repeat offenders are called felons. | | | | counseling are part of daily living for the defendant for |
| New Jersey Law considers DUI and DWI serious | | | | a long time. For e.g. in most states, insurance rates for |
| misdemeanors. New Jersey considers DUIs a very | | | | convicted drivers will increase 500 to 1000 per cent |
| severe charge and there are stiff penalties associated | | | | above the premium paid before the conviction. |
| with the crime - both legally and financially. If charged | | | | Financial burdens are also increased because most |
| with this crime, the services of a good legal should be | | | | credit bureaus contain drunken driving convictions and |
| immediately sought. | | | | hamper the ability to raise credit, as well as future |
| First time offenders face punitive charges that involve | | | | prospects of employment. |
| fines up to $500, a drunk driving enforcement fund | | | | DUI /DWI fines are a serious burden on the defendant |
| surcharge of $100, court cost of $30, victims of crime | | | | and must be tackled with the help of a seasoned |
| compensation board penalties of $50, a safe | | | | lawyer. |