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STATE v. HENDRICKS — NEW JERSEY MURDER TRIAL — "NOT GUILTY" VERDICT

Mr. Tumelty represented Helena Hendricks, who was charged with first degree murder in Atlantic County Superior Court. The defendant faced a number of additional charges, including armed robbery, conspiracy and possession of a handgun for an unlawful purpose. At the conclusion of a jury trial that lasted three weeks, the defendant was found "not guilty" of all charges.

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How Long Will a DUI/DWI Stay on my Record and Count as a Prior Conviction?

A question that is commonly asked about DUI/DWI law when a person is convicted is how long will the conviction be visible on my record. This is very important considering the fact that many courts normally will track the amount of prior convictions you have had in determining your sentence and other possible punishments such as fines and other repercussions. This is why it is critical to know how far back the court will look to prior convictions because it could have a big effect on any new sentence or punishment.

Prior DWI/DUI Convictions

It is common for courts to look back to prior DUI convictions when determining the sentence and repercussions of a new DUI charge brought upon the same person. It is usually the case where a second or third offense will most likely bring about a more severe punishment as compared to a first time offender. The repercussions for a person convicted of their first DUI/DWI will likely include significant fines but not include any jail time yet for a second or third conviction it is often mandatory for jail time to be included in sentencing.

When a predetermined amount of time passes after someone is convicted of a DUI/DWI, it is normal for that conviction to “washout” and therefore not be considered when the court determines a person’s sentence for a subsequent DUI conviction. The amount of time required to pass before a previous conviction can be washed out differs across state lines. It is critical to know the specific washout period in your state because it can have a big effect on your sentence. The most common washout periods are five, seven, and ten years.

Contact an Experienced NJ DUI/DWI Attorney Today

Understanding whether you will be convicted as a first offender or not when charged with a DUI is critically important in regards to the severity of punishment the court will decide upon and requires detailed knowledge of specific state washout periods and variations, which can be beneficial to you qualify to be charged as a first offender. It may be in your best interest to contact a knowledgeable New Jersey attorney who has years of experience dealing with DUI cases and will fight for the best possible outcome. Contact John W. Tumelty today so that we may begin your case and help get you the best results possible.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.

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