New Jersey DWI cases are usually tried in the Municipal Court. The Haddon Township Municipal Court is located at 135 Haddon Avenue in Haddon Township. If you have been arrested and charged with drunk driving in Haddon Township, this is where your case will be heard.
What Should I Expect at My First Court Appearance?
Your first appearance in Haddon Township Municipal Court is known as an arraignment. This is where the formal DUI charge is read and the judge asks you to enter a plea. You can plead either guilty or not guilty.
Do I Need a Lawyer for My DUI/DWI Case?
You have the right to proceed with or without a lawyer in Haddon Township Municipal Court. But it is generally a good idea to work with a New Jersey DUI lawyer who has experience in handling these kinds of cases.
What Happens If I plead Guilty to a DUI/DWI Charge?
A guilty plea means that you admit to DUI charges in New Jersey. The judge will then proceed to determine your sentence.
What Happens If I plead Not Guilty to a DUI/DWI Charge?
A not guilty plea means the Municipal Court will schedule a trial, often at a later date than the arraignment. Your New Jersey DWI attorney can advise you on defense strategies should you decide to enter a not guilty plea.
What are the Potential Penalties for a DUI/DWI Conviction?
For a first DWI offense in New Jersey, the potential penalties include up to 30 days in jail, a fine of between $250 and $400, attendance in a mandatory DWI/DUI program, and revocation of your driver’s license for 3 months. Additional penalties will apply if you have any prior DWI/DUI convictions.
What Is a Plea Bargain and Should I Consider it?
In criminal cases, a plea bargain usually means that a prosecutor agrees to a reduced charge in exchange for the defendant’s promise to enter a guilty plea. Plea bargains are not available when it comes to New Jersey DWI charges, however, so prosecutors will not negotiate such terms.
Can I Get a DUI/DWI Charge Reduced or Dismissed?
It may be possible. A common DUI defense strategy in New Jersey is to challenge the strength of the prosecutor’s case. If your attorney can convince the prosecutor that the evidence is weak or likely to be found inadmissible by the judge, the state may agree to dismiss the case or charge a lesser offense.
What Is the Role of a DUI/DWI Lawyer in Court?
A New Jersey DUI lawyer serves as your legal adviser and advocate. They can advise you on defense strategies for challenging a DUI/DWI charge. And if you choose to go to trial they can prepare and present a defense on your behalf.
What Should I Do If I’m Not Happy With My Lawyer’s Performance in Court?
No lawyer can guarantee a favorable outcome. So it is possible for your lawyer to provide you with a zealous defense and yet you are still found guilty of DUI in New Jersey. If you have reason to believe your Haddon Township DUI lawyer has acted unethically or incompetently, however, you have the right to file an Attorney Ethics Grievance with the District Ethics Committee for Camden and Gloucester Counties.
Speak with a New Jersey DUI/DWI Lawyer Today
A New Jersey drunk driving charge is a serious matter. If you need legal advice or representation from a qualified DWI attorney, contact the Law Office of Matthew V. Portella, LLC, today to schedule a confidential case review.