Getting arrested for DWI in New Jersey can be overwhelming. You might be facing fines, a license suspension, higher insurance rates, and even jail time. But for many first-time offenders, there’s an important question worth asking: Can a DWI charge be reduced to reckless driving in New Jersey?
The short answer is yes—it’s possible, but it depends on several factors and requires a smart legal strategy.
What’s the Difference Between DWI and Reckless Driving?
In New Jersey, DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) is a serious offense. A conviction comes with harsh penalties—even for a first offense—including loss of license, heavy fines, mandatory classes, and more.
Reckless driving, on the other hand, is still a traffic offense, but it doesn’t carry the same long-term impact as a DWI. That’s why many people charged with DWI hope to have it downgraded to reckless driving—it means avoiding a criminal record, keeping your license, and lowering penalties.
How Can a DWI Be Reduced?
Reducing a DWI to reckless driving is not automatic. It takes careful negotiation and a defense attorney who knows how to identify weaknesses in the state’s case. The process begins with a full review of the arrest. Some of the key questions a lawyer will explore include:
- Was the traffic stop legal?
- Were field sobriety tests administered properly?
- Was the breathalyzer calibrated and operated correctly?
- Are the police reports inconsistent or unclear?
If there are flaws in the evidence—or if the prosecution believes there’s a chance they could lose at trial—they may agree to reduce the charge to reckless driving.
Why Your Choice of Lawyer Matters
Getting a DWI reduced to reckless driving in New Jersey takes more than just showing up in court—it takes experience, relationships, and skill.
That’s where Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law stands out.
Attorney Matthew Reisig has been defending people charged with DWI across New Jersey for more than 30 years. His firm knows the inner workings of municipal courts throughout the state and understands how different prosecutors and judges operate. That familiarity gives clients a major advantage when it comes time to negotiate.
Over the years, more than 1,400 clients have walked out of New Jersey courtrooms with no DWI conviction thanks to Reisig’s aggressive and strategic defense.
Trusted Statewide for DUI Defense
Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law isn’t just another law firm—they’re a respected name in DUI defense throughout New Jersey. Their strong track record, client-first approach, and dedication to personalized legal strategy have made them one of the most trusted criminal defense teams in the state.
They understand that every case is unique. That’s why they take the time to review every detail and build a defense that fits your specific situation. Whether it’s negotiating a reduced charge or fighting your case in court, Reisig Law knows how to get results.
What Should You Do Next?
If you or someone you care about has been arrested for DWI in New Jersey, don’t wait to take action. You have options—but your chances of a favorable outcome are strongest when you have the right lawyer by your side.
To find out if your DWI can be reduced to reckless driving, call Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law today for a free consultation. With decades of experience and a history of winning cases, they’re ready to help you fight back—and move forward.
Call now and take the first step toward protecting your future.
