The Quiet Decisions People Make in December, and How Family Law Fits In
The holiday season is a time for celebrations, gatherings, and travel, but it’s also one of the busiest times of year for DUI arrests in New Jersey. Between holiday parties, work events, family celebrations, and New Year’s Eve festivities, law enforcement agencies significantly increase patrols and sobriety checkpoints across the state.
If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges this December, understanding your rights and knowing where to turn for legal support can make all the difference.
Why DUIs Increase During the Holidays
December consistently sees a rise in DUI and related criminal charges throughout New Jersey, including in Monmouth County and Ocean County. Common contributing factors include:
Holiday parties with alcohol
Late-night driving after celebrations
Increased travel and unfamiliar roads
New Year’s Eve celebrations
Heightened police presence and checkpoints
Law enforcement agencies often launch aggressive holiday initiatives focused on impaired driving, meaning even first-time offenders can find themselves facing serious charges.
What Counts as a DUI in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, a DUI can be charged if a driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, you can still be arrested even with a lower BAC if an officer believes alcohol or drugs impaired your ability to drive safely or if you refuse to submit to a breathalyzer test.
DUI charges may involve alcohol, prescription medication, illegal substances, or a combination of substances. Penalties can escalate quickly based on prior offenses, BAC level, or if an accident occurred.
Potential Consequences of a DUI Charge
A DUI conviction in New Jersey can carry lasting consequences that extend well beyond the holiday season, including:
Driver’s license suspension
Heavy fines and court costs
Mandatory alcohol education programs
Installation of an ignition interlock device
Increased insurance rates
Potential jail time for repeat offenses
For many individuals, a DUI can also impact employment, professional licenses, child custody matters, and family court proceedings.
How a DUI Can Affect Family Law Matters
What many people don’t realize is that criminal charges often overlap with family law issues. A DUI arrest may affect:
Ongoing divorce proceedings
Child custody and parenting time
Child support considerations
Court perceptions of parental fitness
That’s why having a legal team that understands both family law and criminal defense is critical.
Jersey Coast Family Law’s New Criminal Division
Jersey Coast Family Law is proud to expand our services with the launch of our Criminal Division, allowing us to support clients facing DUI and other criminal charges while also addressing related family law concerns.
Our integrated approach means you don’t need to juggle multiple attorneys or firms. We understand how criminal charges can ripple into divorce, custody, and family court matters and we build strategies that protect you on all fronts.
Whether this is your first DUI or you’re facing more serious charges, our team works to review the facts, challenge evidence, and advocate for the best possible outcome.
Common Holiday DUI Mistakes to Avoid
If you’re celebrating this season, keep these reminders in mind:
Plan a ride before attending holiday events
Use rideshare services or designated drivers
Don’t assume you’re “okay to drive” after a few drinks
Understand that checkpoints are common in December
Take any DUI stop seriously and know your rights
Prevention is always best, but if a mistake happens, having experienced legal guidance matters.
Talk to an Experienced New Jersey DUI Attorney Today
If you or someone you love has been charged with a DUI or other criminal offense this holiday season, time is critical. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the more options you may have.
Jersey Coast Family Law proudly serves clients throughout Toms River, Ocean County, and across New Jersey. Our new Criminal Division is ready to help you navigate DUI charges while protecting your future and your family.
Jersey Coast Family Law proudly serves clients throughout New Jersey with two convenient office locations in Ocean County and Monmouth County. With offices in Toms River, NJ and Red Bank, NJ, our team makes it easier to access experienced legal guidance when you need it most.
Our attorneys are here to provide strategic, compassionate representation close to home. Learn more or schedule a confidential consultation at https://jerseycoastfamilylaw.com
