Being arrested for a DWI in New Jersey can be overwhelming, and one of the first questions many people ask is, “Where will my trial be held?”
Unlike other criminal cases, DWI trials in New Jersey do not involve juries. Instead, these cases are handled in Municipal Court, where a judge alone decides the outcome.
If you are facing DWI charges, knowing how the Municipal Court system works and what to expect in your trial is crucial. Having an experienced DWI defense attorney can make all the difference in protecting your rights, challenging the evidence, and securing the best possible outcome.
Why Are DWI Cases Heard in Municipal Court?
In New Jersey, a DWI is classified as a traffic offense, not a criminal charge. Because of this, cases are not handled in Superior Court, and defendants do not have the right to a jury trial. Instead, a Municipal Court judge will review the facts, listen to testimony, and determine whether the prosecution has proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
Each town or city in New Jersey has its own Municipal Court, meaning your trial will take place in the court serving the area where the arrest happened.
How a DWI Trial Works in New Jersey
The DWI trial process follows a structured format, similar to other legal proceedings:
- Arraignment: The first court appearance where the judge formally presents the charges against you. You may enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. If you plead not guilty, the case moves forward.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Hearings: Your attorney may challenge certain evidence, such as the validity of the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, or breathalyzer results. A strong legal argument here can sometimes lead to reduced charges or even dismissal.
- Trial: Since there is no jury, the judge hears all arguments, examines evidence, and makes a final ruling. This includes:
- Prosecution’s Case: The arresting officer testifies, and any breathalyzer or field sobriety test results are presented.
- Defense’s Case: Your attorney may challenge police procedures, test accuracy, or other evidence to weaken the prosecution’s argument.
- Judge’s Decision: After reviewing all the facts, the judge will either convict or dismiss the charges.
Why You Need a Strong DWI Defense Attorney
New Jersey has some of the toughest DWI laws in the country. If convicted, you could face license suspension, heavy fines, increased insurance rates, and even jail time. Since judges handle these cases directly, having a skilled attorney who knows the Municipal Court system can significantly impact your case’s outcome.
Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law has been one of New Jersey’s most trusted DWI defense firms for nearly 30 years. With extensive courtroom experience, they understand the strategies that work best in front of judges. They have successfully helped thousands of clients fight DWI charges, reduce penalties, and, in many cases, avoid conviction entirely.
Call Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law Today
Facing a DWI charge in New Jersey is serious, but you don’t have to go through it alone. The right legal defense can mean the difference between losing your license and walking away with a favorable outcome.
Call Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law at (732) 625-9660 for a free consultation. Their experienced legal team will review your case, explain your options, and fight to protect your future.
