New Jersey DUI Lawyer Rachel Kugel Explains Driving Rights After A DUI Arrest

A DUI arrest in New Jersey can lead to uncertainty, particularly regarding whether driving is permitted before a scheduled court date. New Jersey DUI lawyer Rachel Kugel ( ) of The Kugel Law Firm addresses this issue in a recently published article, helping individuals understand how driving privileges may be affected immediately following a DUI charge.

A DUI charge can be disorienting, especially for those unfamiliar with legal procedures. New Jersey DUI lawyer Rachel Kugel explains that New Jersey treats DUI offenses differently from most states, classifying them as traffic violations instead of criminal offenses. As a result, individuals may still legally operate a vehicle between the time of arrest and the scheduled court appearance, unless a judge orders an immediate license suspension due to specific circumstances.

According to the article, New Jersey DUI lawyer Rachel Kugel notes that after a DUI arrest, most individuals receive a summons with a court date and do not face an automatic license suspension.“Until this court appearance, your driving privileges are often not suspended, allowing you to legally continue driving after a DUI arrest,” states Kugel. However, changes to license status may occur after the court hearing, depending on blood alcohol concentration (BAC), prior offenses, or other aggravating factors.

The article details how driving before a court date is possible in many cases, though not guaranteed. Driving privileges can be revoked immediately if certain legal thresholds are met, such as high BAC or involvement in an accident. Rachel Kugel advises that legal counsel be retained as early as possible to review the facts of the arrest and determine if any immediate suspensions apply.

The article also outlines a legal mechanism that may allow limited driving even if a license is suspended after a DUI charge. Rachel Kugel discusses the option of installing an ignition interlock device (IID) to maintain restricted driving privileges. This option is only available under specific conditions and requires the installation of the device, proof of installation submission to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, and the issuance of a new license bearing the interlock restriction. The process must be completed within a defined seven-day window that begins once the individual initiates the installation.

Driving with an IID before the court date can be critical for maintaining employment, attending medical appointments, or fulfilling family responsibilities. However, the article cautions that failure to comply with installation requirements or meet deadlines may result in loss of eligibility. Rachel Kugel underscores the need to act quickly and adhere to New Jersey MVC procedures to preserve the right to drive with an IID in place.

The article also provides a breakdown of the post-arrest legal timeline in New Jersey. The process begins at the police station, where individuals may be released without bail unless other criminal charges accompany the DUI. Multiple traffic violations, such as reckless or careless driving, often accompany DUI charges. The summons will include the arraignment date, which usually takes place within days of the arrest.

At arraignment, the judge presents the formal charges, advises the accused of legal rights, and accepts a plea. Rachel Kugel explains that having legal representation before arraignment is strongly recommended. Legal representation allows for the possibility of filing a notice of appearance or seeking a waiver of arraignment based on case specifics.

Following arraignment, the discovery phase begins. Rachel Kugel outlines that discovery involves requesting all available records related to the arrest, including BAC test results, body camera footage, and arresting officer reports. Legal counsel may also initiate an independent investigation, collect additional evidence, or file motions to suppress improperly obtained materials.

The article explains that DUI cases in New Jersey are resolved through judge-led bench trials rather than jury trials. The prosecutor presents evidence first, followed by the defense. The judge determines guilt or innocence and issues sentencing if a conviction is reached. If found guilty, license surrender is typically required.

The article by Rachel Kugel offers a clear legal overview for individuals facing DUI charges in New Jersey. While driving may still be permitted before a court date, license status depends on several legal factors. Understanding each step of the legal process-arraignment, discovery, trial-is critical for informed decision-making.

Early action can influence the outcome of a DUI case. Legal support ensures the protection of rights and may help preserve driving privileges during the pre-trial period. Rachel Kugel encourages individuals to seek counsel as soon as charges are filed to explore all available legal options.

The Kugel Law Firm continues to assist individuals across New Jersey in navigating DUI charges. From evaluating BAC levels to reviewing arrest procedures, the firm works to develop strong defenses and advise on potential penalties and alternatives such as IID use.

About The Kugel Law Firm:

The Kugel Law Firm, founded by New Jersey DUI lawyer Rachel Kugel, focuses on representing individuals charged with DUI offenses throughout New Jersey and New York. With a track record of hundreds of DUI case defenses and appearances on national legal panels and media outlets, Rachel Kugel leads the firm in delivering focused legal representation in DUI matters.

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