NJ DWI in School Zones - Penalties, Defense & What to Do

A DWI charge is serious enough on its own, but when it occurs in a school zone, the consequences in New Jersey are significantly enhanced. Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50(g), driving while intoxicated within 1,000 feet of school property carries mandatory additional penalties.

Enhanced Penalties for School Zone DWI

If convicted of a DWI in a school zone, you face the standard DWI penalties PLUS additional mandatory consequences:

• Additional license suspension of 1-2 years
• Additional fine of $500-$800
• Community service of up to 60 days
• These penalties are in addition to, not instead of, the standard DWI penalties

Defense Strategies

Several defenses may be available in a school zone DWI case:

• Challenging whether the location actually qualifies as a school zone
• Questioning the accuracy of the distance measurement
• All standard DWI defenses (breathalyzer accuracy, illegal stop, etc.)
• Whether school was in session at the time of the offense

Contact an Experienced DWI Attorney

School Zone DWI Defense in Middlesex County

Middlesex County is home to hundreds of schools, and school zone DWI enforcement is active in towns like Edison, Woodbridge, New Brunswick, Old Bridge, East Brunswick, and Piscataway. If you've been charged with a DWI in a school zone anywhere in Middlesex County, the stakes are extremely high.

Contact the Law Office of Nicholas A. Moschella, Jr. immediately for a free consultation. As a former prosecutor who practices throughout Middlesex County's courts, Mr. Moschella understands how these cases are built and knows the most effective defense strategies.