Blog

Driver’s License Suspension for Criminal Charges in NJ

Mount Holly NJ License Suspension Attorneys

License Suspension Drug Charges in South JerseyIf you have been arrested and charged with a crime in New Jersey, you may be surprised to learn that you can lose your license even if the charges have nothing to do with driving or a motor vehicle violation. In fact, one of the most common penalties for drug charges in New Jersey is a period of driver’s license suspension. New Jersey law requires a mandatory suspension of your driver’s license for 6 months if you’re convicted of a drug crime like possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS). For more information about driver’s license suspensions for criminal charges in New Jersey, keep reading. And if you are facing criminal charges in Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Chesterfield, Bordentown, Cinnaminson, Evesham Township, or elsewhere in the Burlington County region, contact our criminal defense law firm for a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Call 609-832-3202 or fill out our online form today.

Driver’s License Suspension for Drug Offenses under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-16

According to section N.J.S.A. 2C:35-16 of the New Jersey criminal statutes, a person convicted or adjudicated delinquent of a drug offense (any of the controlled dangerous substance crimes outlined in section 35 and drug paraphernalia offenses in section 36) is subject to a mandatory driver’s license suspension for a minimum of 6 months and up to 2 years. The license suspension begins on the day of your conviction unless the court finds compelling circumstances that warrant an exception. In order to receive an exception, a defendant must demonstrate that suspension of their driving privileges would cause extreme hardship and they have no alternative means of transportation. Getting a hardship license exception after a drug conviction is extremely difficult. It is highly advisable to have a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney arguing for an exception to the mandatory license suspension requirement in your case.

Charges with Mandatory Motor Vehicle License Suspension in NJ

Some of the most common charges that require suspension of your driver’s license if convicted include:

What if I don’t have my license yet?

The mandatory driver’s license suspension associated with drug crimes and other charges applies to both juveniles and adults in New Jersey. If you’re a juvenile adjudicated delinquent of any of the offenses above or another offense with a license suspension requirement, the date at which you are eligible to get your driver’s license will be pushed back. Depending on the specific suspension imposed by the court, you may have to wait between 6 months and 2 years from your seventeenth birthday to take your driving test.

Will my License be Suspended if I get Conditional Discharge or Pretrial Intervention (PTI)?

If you become enrolled in the Conditional Discharge Program or Pretrial Intervention Program (PTI), you are not bound by the mandatory driver’s license suspension associated with drug crime convictions in New Jersey. The Court has the authority to suspend your license if they deem it appropriate, but having a skilled criminal lawyer on your side gives you the best opportunity for avoiding suspension of your driving privileges while on PTI or conditional discharge.

Dealing with Potential Driver’s License Suspension in the Burlington County area?

If you are facing suspension of your license in connection with drug charges or another criminal or traffic violation in South Jersey, you need to speak with a criminal defense attorney about your legal options. At our criminal defense law firm, our lawyers regularly help clients avoid drug convictions and driver’s license suspension in Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and throughout New Jersey. To speak with a defense attorney free of charge, contact us immediately at 609-832-3202.

Testimonials

testimonials reviews
"Excellent criminal defense lawyer"

"William handled a matter for me and exceeded my expectations. He was excellent in all areas of the law and achieved an outstanding result. Best of all,he demonstrates honesty and integrity. I would highly recommend William and already have."

Wayne

testimonials reviews
"Amazing!!!"

"I was so scared and nervous about my legal situation but Mr. Fay did an outstanding job with my case!!! I was so relieved with the outcome and he worked so hard for me! He was so calm and understanding and I’m so grateful for him. Thank you so very much for helping me! I am so grateful appreciative."

Jessica

testimonials reviews
"All Charges Dropped & Expunged"

"William defended me in my marijuana + paraphernalia case, he had all charges dropped and expunged! Despite the fact I was long past conditional discharges/probation, etc. He has a sharp wit and a bright future ahead of him as an attorney. Thanks again Will!"

Andrew

testimonials reviews
"Fantastic Lawyer"

"Mr. Fay is a fantastic lawyer. He helped me during a very stressful time in my life. He was knowledgeable about my case and what my options were. He answered all my questions and was very reassuring. He was there waiting for me at the entrance on my court date and made me feel at ease. He worked with the prosecutor to reduce my charges. I got the best outcome I could have hoped for. I highly recommend Mr. Fay if you need a lawyer."

Eric

testimonials reviews
"Marijuana Charges"

"I was arrested and summoned to court for possession of marijuana, even though I didn't have any on me. It was my first time getting in trouble and I was terrified and nervous. Mr. Fay came into court prepared and was extremely assuring. He made it very clear that he was going to fight for my case until the very end. He was extremely knowledgable about my case and the ways to resolve it. I would recommend Mr. Fay to anyone who has gotten into trouble."

former client

testimonials reviews
"Excellent lawyer. Highly recommended."

"Mr. Fay is extremely caring and knowledgeable. He took the time to explain the entire process in a very clear manner and was a tremendous help during a stressful time. He was always available to take a phone call and really showed that he cared about me and my case. I highly recommend Mr. Fay as an attorney." "

former client

testimonials reviews
"Highly recommend"

"Great lawyer. Created a best possible outcome for my case."

former client

testimonials reviews
"Amazing job, explains very clearly"

"He did a fantastic job on my case, making my penalty much less than I thought it could possibly be. He clearly understands what he is doing and can explain everything in a way that anyone can understand. Any questions I had were answered very clearly and he listened to all small details of my case."

former client

Request a Free Consultation

Request a Free Consultation

If you or someone you love has been charged with a criminal or DUI offense in New Jersey, finding the answers you need to make informed decisions is critical. Complete our contact form to request your free consultation or contact 609-832-3202


We are available 24/7 Nights and Weekends to Provide Free Consultations | Hablamos Español