Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law, LLC

DUI Defense For Every County In The State Of New Jersey

1,402 Of My Clients = NO DWI!*

Available 24 Hours A Day- 1-732-625-9660, 1-888-628-8394

NJ DWI Defense

As seen on

Reisig DWI & Criminal Defense Law ABC Logo
Reisig DWI & Criminal Defense Law CBS Logo
Reisig DWI & Criminal Defense Law Fox News Logo
Reisig DWI & Criminal Defense Law New Jersey Logo
Reisig DWI & Criminal Defense Law New York Logo
Reisig DWI & Criminal Defense Law New York Post Logo
Reisig DWI & Criminal Defense Law New York Logo
Reisig DWI & Criminal Defense Law NJ Logo

Blog

In New Jersey, How Do I Get My Driving Privileges Restored After A DWI?

by

Being arrested and convicted for a DWI in New Jersey can disrupt your life in many ways. One of the most significant consequences is losing your driving privileges.Get Drivers License After Your DWI In NJ

Whether it’s for commuting to work, running errands, or taking your kids to school, not being able to drive can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, once you’ve fulfilled the court-mandated penalties, there’s a clear process to restore your driving privileges. Here’s what you need to know.

Steps to Reinstate Your License After a DWI

Once you’ve completed all penalties associated with your DWI conviction, including license suspension, community service, fines, DWI education classes, or jail time, you’re eligible to start the process of reinstating your driving privileges. Here’s how:

  1. Pay the Restoration Fee
    The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) requires a $100 restoration fee to begin the reinstatement process. This can typically be paid online, by mail, or in person. Once the fee is processed, the MVC will send you a Notice of Restoration by mail.
  2. Visit Your Local MVC
    With the Notice of Restoration in hand, you’ll need to visit your local MVC office. Bring the following documents:

    • Notice of Restoration
    • Proof of Insurance
    • Valid Identification

    At the MVC, they’ll verify that you’ve satisfied all conditions, and you’ll receive your reinstated license.

  3. Address Potential Issues
    While most drivers can restore their licenses smoothly, there are cases where the MVC may delay or deny reinstatement. Administrative errors, unresolved fines, or incomplete records can complicate the process. If you face resistance from the MVC, it’s essential to have an experienced DWI attorney on your side to advocate for you.

What If the MVC Delays Your Reinstatement?

If you’ve met all the requirements of your DWI penalties and the MVC still isn’t cooperating, you don’t have to face the situation alone. These delays can be frustrating, especially if you’ve done everything the court required. An experienced DWI attorney can review your case, identify any overlooked details, and work directly with the MVC to resolve the issue.

Why Choose Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law?

For nearly 30 years, Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law has been one of New Jersey’s most trusted and successful law firms. Attorney Matthew Reisig has built a reputation for delivering outstanding results, helping clients navigate the complexities of DWI cases and restoring their driving privileges.

What sets Reisig Criminal Defense apart?

  • Deep Expertise: With decades of experience handling DWI cases, the firm understands New Jersey’s legal system inside and out.
  • Personalized Attention: Every case is unique, and Reisig Criminal Defense tailors strategies to meet your specific needs.
  • Proven Track Record: From reduced penalties to dismissed charges, Matthew Reisig has helped countless clients achieve favorable outcomes.
  • Comprehensive Support: The firm doesn’t just defend you in court—they help you handle post-conviction issues, including license reinstatement and dealing with the MVC.

Call Today for Professional & Skilled Guidance

Restoring your driving privileges after a DWI is a vital step toward reclaiming your independence. If you’ve completed your penalties but are facing challenges with the MVC, don’t wait to get help. Call Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law today at 732-625-9660. With nearly 30 years of experience, Matthew Reisig is ready to provide the guidance and support you need to get back on the road. Consultations are free, and there’s no obligation—just expert advice from one of New Jersey’s top DWI attorneys.

Don’t let a DWI conviction define your future. Take the first step toward restoring your driving privileges and peace of mind by reaching out today.

More Information About DWI’s, Our Thoughts and Strategies

Why Wasn’t I Given A Miranda Warning When I Was Pulled Over For DWI In New Jersey?

by

If you’ve been pulled over and arrested for DWI in New Jersey, you may be wondering why the police didn’t read you your Miranda rights.Arrested For DWI In NJ And Not Read Miranda

Many people associate a Miranda warning—informing you of your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney—with any kind of arrest. However, in DWI cases, the rules surrounding Miranda rights work a little differently.

When Are Miranda Rights Required?

Police officers are not required to issue a Miranda warning simply because they’ve pulled you over or even when they place you in handcuffs. Miranda rights only apply when you are in custodial interrogation—meaning you are both in police custody and being questioned about the alleged crime.

In a DWI situation, most of the evidence used against you typically comes from observations during the traffic stop or the results of field sobriety and chemical tests. Since these actions occur before you are technically in custody, a Miranda warning is not required at that point. Similarly, the officer doesn’t need to read you your rights to ask you to perform a breathalyzer test.

How Does Miranda Apply to DWI Cases?

Miranda rights can come into play after your arrest if law enforcement questions you while you’re in custody. For example, if you’re at the police station and an officer asks about how much you had to drink, any statements you make could potentially be suppressed in court if you weren’t informed of your Miranda rights.

However, this does not mean that failing to provide a Miranda warning automatically invalidates the case against you. DWI charges are typically built on physical evidence—like your blood alcohol content (BAC) — and officer observations rather than statements you make.

How Can a Lawyer Help?

If you’ve been charged with a DWI, an experienced attorney can investigate whether your rights were violated during the arrest process. Statements made without a Miranda warning may be challenged, and your attorney can also scrutinize whether the officer followed proper procedures during the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and chemical testing.

For nearly 30 years, Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law has been one of New Jersey’s top choices for DWI defense. Their extensive experience and deep understanding of state law allow them to craft effective defense strategies tailored to each client’s unique situation.

Why Choose Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law?

  • Decades of Experience: Matthew Reisig has built a reputation as one of New Jersey’s most trusted DWI attorneys. His knowledge of the law and courtroom strategies have helped countless clients.
  • Strong Track Record: From case dismissals to reduced penalties, Reisig Criminal Defense has a history of securing favorable outcomes.
  • Client-Focused Approach: The team at Reisig Criminal Defense takes the time to understand your case, answer your questions, and guide you every step of the way.
  • In-Depth Knowledge of NJ Courts: Familiarity with local prosecutors and judges allows them to anticipate strategies and build strong defenses.

What Should You Do Next?

If you’re facing DWI charges in New Jersey, don’t try to navigate the system alone. Contact Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law at 732-625-9660 for a free consultation. They’ll review your case, explain your options, and fight to protect your rights.

A DWI arrest can feel overwhelming, but with the right legal team, you can face the situation with confidence. Let Reisig Criminal Defense help you achieve the best possible outcome.

More Information About DWI’s, Our Thoughts and Strategies

What Kind Of Fines Am I Looking At If I Just Plead Guilty To My DWI In New Jersey?

by

Getting arrested for a DWI in New Jersey can be a frightening and confusing experience.What Are The Fines For Pleading Guilty To DWI in NJ

If you’re considering pleading guilty, it’s important to understand the full extent of the penalties you could face. The consequences are severe and can have long-lasting effects on your life. Let’s break down what you can expect and why having an experienced attorney from Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law by your side is crucial.

Financial Penalties

First and foremost, the fines for a DWI conviction in New Jersey can be substantial. The amount depends on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of your arrest and whether this is your first offense. If your BAC was between 0.08% and 0.10%, the fine could range from $250 to $400 for a first offense. If your BAC was 0.10% or higher, the fines increase significantly, ranging from $300 to $500. These amounts can escalate with subsequent offenses, leading to even higher fines.

But fines are just the beginning. You’ll also face other mandatory financial penalties, including a $100 fee to the Drunk Driving Fund, a $100 fee to the Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Fund, and a $75 Neighborhood Services Fund fee. Additionally, there’s an annual surcharge of $1,000 to $1,500 for three years, which can significantly impact your finances.

License Suspension For DWI in NJ

Losing your driving privileges is another severe consequence of a DWI conviction. For a first offense with a BAC between 0.08% and 0.10%, your license will be suspended for at least three months. If your BAC is 0.10% or higher, the suspension increases to a minimum of seven months. Subsequent offenses result in even longer suspension periods, potentially up to 10 years. This loss of your license can severely disrupt your daily life, making it difficult to commute to work, run errands, or take care of family responsibilities.

Mandatory Programs and Increased Insurance Rates

In addition to fines and license suspension, you’ll be required to attend a state-mandated Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC). This program involves a mandatory 12-48 hours of education and evaluation, which you must pay for out of pocket. The cost of this program adds another financial burden to your already growing list of expenses.

Moreover, a DWI conviction will cause your car insurance rates to skyrocket. Insurance companies view DWI offenders as high-risk drivers, and you can expect to pay significantly higher premiums for several years following your conviction. This increase in insurance costs can be financially crippling.

Potential Jail Time

One of the most serious consequences of a DWI conviction is the possibility of jail time. For a first offense, you could face up to 30 days in jail. While this might seem unlikely for a first-time offender, it is still a legal possibility that can have devastating effects on your personal and professional life.

Why You Need Experienced Legal Representation

Given the severity of these penalties, it’s crucial to have a skilled attorney on your side. Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law has been one of New Jersey’s most trusted and successful law firms for nearly 30 years. Our team understands the complexities of DWI law and has a proven track record of helping clients navigate these challenging situations.

By hiring Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law, you can potentially reduce or avoid some of these harsh penalties. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, challenge any improper procedures or evidence, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you. We understand that every case is unique and requires a personalized approach.

We Can Help With Your DWI

Pleading guilty to a DWI in New Jersey can result in severe financial penalties, license suspension, mandatory programs, increased insurance rates, and even jail time. These consequences extend far beyond the immediate fines and can affect your life for years to come. However, with the right legal representation, you can protect your rights and your future.

Don’t face this challenging situation alone. Contact Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law at 732-625-9660 for a free consultation. Let our experienced team help you navigate the complexities of your DWI case and work towards the best possible outcome.

More Information About NJ DWI Penalties

How Can I Expunge My DWI In New Jersey?

by

Facing a DWI conviction in New Jersey can be stressful, especially when thinking about its long-term impact. If you’ve been convicted, you might wonder if you can expunge your DWI from your record.Can You Get A DWI Expunged In NJ?

Unfortunately, New Jersey law doesn’t allow DWI convictions to be expunged. However, there’s still good news—you may be able to limit how it affects your future, especially with the right legal representation.

Why Can’t DWIs Be Expunged in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) is considered a traffic violation, not a criminal offense. Because of this classification, it doesn’t appear on your criminal record, meaning it won’t show up in criminal background checks when you apply for a job, housing, or even a loan.

However, while this may seem like a relief, a DWI conviction will stay on your driving record permanently. This means that law enforcement, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC), and insurance companies will always be able to see it.

How Does a DWI Affect Your Life After Conviction?

Even though a DWI won’t appear on a standard criminal background check, its long-term consequences can still be significant:

  1. Higher Insurance Rates: Insurance companies will see your DWI on your driving record and consider you a high-risk driver. This can lead to skyrocketing premiums that last for years, often three to five years or longer, depending on your insurance provider.
  2. License Suspensions and Surcharges: After a conviction, New Jersey imposes license suspensions and mandatory surcharges, which can cause major disruptions to your personal and professional life.
  3. Employment Restrictions: Certain professions that require a clean driving record—such as commercial driving jobs—may become unavailable due to a DWI conviction.
  4. Long-Term Consequences: Multiple DWI convictions result in even more severe penalties, including longer license suspensions, hefty fines, and even mandatory jail time.

Is There Any Way to Minimize the Impact of a DWI?

While you can’t expunge a DWI in New Jersey, there are still ways to reduce its impact on your life:

  • Challenge the Charges Early: A conviction isn’t automatic. Working with an experienced DWI attorney can help you fight the charges, potentially leading to a case dismissal or reduced penalties.
  • Seek Post-Conviction Relief: In some cases, post-conviction relief may be available through legal appeals, sentence reductions, or even reopening a case under certain circumstances.
  • Complete Required Programs: Enrolling in court-ordered alcohol education or community service can help you fulfill your obligations and demonstrate accountability.

Why Choose Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law?

If you’re facing a DWI charge or struggling with the long-term consequences of a past conviction, it’s time to get trusted legal help. For nearly 30 years, Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law has successfully defended individuals charged with DWI throughout New Jersey. Their extensive experience, deep understanding of New Jersey’s legal system, and strong relationships with local prosecutors and judges make them one of the most respected law firms in the state.

What Sets Them Apart?

  • Proven Track Record: With thousands of DWI cases successfully handled, Matthew Reisig and his team know how to build strong defenses.
  • Knowledge of NJ Courts: They understand how New Jersey’s DWI laws are enforced and how to challenge weak or unlawful evidence.
  • Client-Focused Representation: Every client receives personalized attention and a strategic defense plan designed to minimize legal consequences.

Take Control of Your Future

While a DWI in New Jersey can’t be expunged, you can still fight back against charges and work to limit its impact on your life. If you’ve been arrested or convicted of a DWI, don’t face the consequences alone. Contact Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law at (732) 625-9660 for a free consultation.

Their team of experienced attorneys will review your case, explain your options, and build a defense designed to protect your driving record, finances, and future. Take action today—your future is worth fighting for.

More Information About DWI’s, Our Thoughts and Strategies

Do I Need To Worry That Potential Employers Will See The DWI On My Record In New Jersey?

by

If you live in NJ — or are job hunting while visiting New Jersey—you may be asking yourself: Will a past DWI show up on background checks and ruin my chances with potential employers?Will A New Employer See My DUI Show Up

The good news? In most situations, you may not need to worry. Unlike many states, New Jersey classifies Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) as a traffic offense, not a criminal offense. That distinction matters a lot when it comes to job applications and background checks.

DWIs and Background Checks in New Jersey

Most standard employment background checks look for criminal convictions. Since a DWI in New Jersey is not considered criminal, it usually won’t appear on that kind of report. That’s a relief for many people looking to move forward with their lives after a DWI conviction.

However, not all background checks are the same. Some employers, especially for positions involving vehicles, sensitive information, or public safety, may request driving records or more in-depth screenings. Your DWI will show up on a motor vehicle abstract, which is public and easy to access.

What If the Job Involves Driving?

If you’re applying for a position that requires a commercial driver’s license (CDL), such as truck driving or delivery work, your chances of getting hired can be significantly impacted. DWIs on a CDL holder’s record are treated more harshly, both by employers and by the law.

In fact, even one DWI offense could disqualify you from holding a CDL for a period of time—or permanently, depending on the circumstances. Employers in transportation, logistics, and construction often have strict policies and won’t take chances when it comes to driving safety.

Do You Have to Tell Employers About a DWI?

While a typical criminal background check might not reveal your DWI, many job applications ask directly about traffic violations, license suspensions, or driving history. If asked, it’s important to be honest. Lying or leaving out information can be more damaging than the DWI itself, especially if the employer finds out later.

In some industries, such as nursing, real estate, law, and finance, state licensing boards may review driving records or conduct additional checks. A DWI could trigger disciplinary action or licensing issues, depending on the profession and severity of the incident.

Can You Remove a DWI from Your Record?

New Jersey does not allow expungement of DWI offenses from your driving record. Once it’s there, it stays—though its impact fades over time. Employers may weigh more recent offenses more heavily than older ones.

Your best chance of minimizing long-term consequences is to avoid a conviction altogether. If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Monmouth, Ocean, or Middlesex County, speak with a knowledgeable local attorney as soon as possible.

Talk to a DWI Defense Lawyer in New Jersey

The consequences of a DWI go far beyond fines and license suspensions—they can affect your future, your career, and your reputation.

If you’ve been charged with DWI, don’t guess about your rights or your options. Call Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law to speak with an experienced New Jersey DWI defense attorney. The consultation is free, and they’ve helped countless individuals in your position get the guidance—and results—they needed to move forward with confidence.

Take control of your future. Call now.

Will The NJ Judge Go Easy On Me If I Plead Guilty Instead Of Fighting A DWI?

by

If you’ve been arrested for DWI in New Jersey, you might be wondering if pleading guilty will encourage the judge to be lenient.WIll The Judge Go Easy On Me If I Plead Guilty To DWI

While some defendants hope this approach will reduce penalties, pleading guilty without fully understanding the consequences can be a serious mistake. Here’s what you need to know about New Jersey’s DWI penalties and how Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law can help you fight for the best possible outcome.

Will a Judge Go Easy If You Plead Guilty?

New Jersey has some of the toughest DWI laws in the country, with mandatory penalties that judges must follow. Even if your case seems minor—such as having a BAC under .10%, no accidents, and no additional charges like reckless driving—the judge is still required to impose specific fines, license suspensions, and possible jail time.

While a judge might issue a lighter sentence if your case has mitigating factors, pleading guilty means you’re accepting a conviction, which brings long-term consequences like license suspension, hefty fines, and years of increased insurance premiums. A conviction stays on your driving record and can’t be expunged in New Jersey.

Why You Should Consider Fighting the Charges

The reality is that being arrested for a DWI isn’t the same as being convicted. New Jersey’s legal system allows you the opportunity to challenge the charges. Even if the evidence seems strong, there may be weak points in the prosecution’s case that an experienced attorney can exploit, such as:

  • Faulty Field Sobriety Tests: If the officer failed to conduct the tests properly, results might be inadmissible.
  • Breath Test Errors: Problems with the Alcotest machine or improper calibration could invalidate your BAC reading.
  • Lack of Probable Cause: If the police officer lacked a legitimate reason to stop your vehicle, your case could be dismissed.
  • Improper Procedures: Any failure to follow legal procedures during the arrest could result in evidence being thrown out.

Why Choose Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law?

With nearly 30 years of success, Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law has helped thousands of New Jersey drivers fight DWI charges. Our attorneys understand the complexities of New Jersey’s DWI laws and know how prosecutors handle cases in courts throughout the state.

What Sets Us Apart:

  • Proven Experience: Decades of successfully defending clients in DWI cases.
  • Knowledge of Local Courts: Familiarity with prosecutors and judges across New Jersey.
  • Aggressive Defense: We explore every legal strategy to reduce charges or dismiss your case.
  • Personalized Representation: We develop customized defense plans based on the specifics of your case.

Call for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been charged with a DWI in New Jersey, don’t assume that pleading guilty will result in leniency. You have a right to representation and your day in court. Let Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law fight for your rights, minimize penalties, and help secure the best possible outcome.

Call us today at (732) 625-9660 for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.

More Information About DWI’s, Our Thoughts and Strategies

FREE CASE REVIEW

No office visit required – we will be happy to talk to you about your situation.
Available 24 Hours A Day
Local: 1-732-786-3554
Toll Free: 1-888-628-8394

Although most of our clients are from Middlesex County, Monmouth County and Ocean County, we have helped clients in EVERY county in the state of New Jersey. Don't hesitate to contact us if you need help.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law, LLC OFFERS FREE TELEPHONE AND OFFICE CONSULTATIONS AT 732-625-9660.

Main Office: 1 Broad Street Freehold, NJ 07728 - 732*625*9660
Since 1995, we have represented clients in all 21 NJ Counties - Atlantic County, New Jersey (Mays Landing, NJ), Bergen County, New Jersey (Hackensack, NJ), Burlington County, New Jersey (Mount Holly, NJ), Camden County, New Jersey (Camden, NJ), Cape May County, New Jersey (Cape May Court House, NJ), Cumberland County, New Jersey (Bridgeton, NJ), Essex County, New Jersey (Newark, NJ), Gloucester County, New Jersey (Woodbury, NJ),Hudson County, New Jersey (Jersey City, NJ), Hunterdon County, New Jersey (Flemington, NJ), Mercer County, New Jersey (Trenton, NJ), Middlesex County, New Jersey (New Brunswick, NJ), Monmouth County, New Jersey (Freehold, NJ), Morris County, New Jersey (Morristown, NJ), Ocean County, New Jersey (Toms River, NJ), Passaic County, New Jersey (Paterson, NJ), Salem County, New Jersey (Salem, NJ), Somerset County, New Jersey (Somerville, NJ), Sussex County, New Jersey (Newton, NJ), Union County, New Jersey (Elizabeth, NJ), Warren County, New Jersey (Belvidere, NJ)

*The reference to 1,402 cases without a DWI conviction applies to cases prior to November 1, 2018. This information should not create an unjustified expectation that similar results can be obtained for others without regard to the specific factual and legal circumstances.
** We have an 82% Winning Percentage at Trial from 2012 through 2017, likely the best in NJ during that time.

Privacy Policy

©2026 All Rights Reserved

Law Firm Internet Marketing by The Attorneys ATM

Reisig DWI & Criminal Defense Law Credit Cards