If you have been convicted of driving under the influence, you may face penalties that could have a long-term impact on your life. For instance, if you are required to spend time in a New Jersey jail, it might jeopardize your ability to remain employed. It could also affect your ability to retain parental rights to your children.

A DUI conviction may lead to financial trouble

If you are unable to drive, it may be harder to find employment, and this may make it more difficult to pay bills in a timely manner. Furthermore, you may also be required to pay a substantial fine depending on the exact circumstances of your case. Finally, you’ll likely want to hire a DUI lawyer to help with your case, which means paying thousands of dollars in legal fees.

You’ll have a criminal record

A drunk driving conviction will likely appear on any background check performed by an employer, landlord or other interested party. It isn’t uncommon for landlords to deny housing to those who have criminal records regardless of when they were convicted.

You may experience mental health issues

You may experience feelings such as guilt, shame or remorse after being taken into custody for drunk driving. These feelings may intensify after you are convicted of DUI. In some cases, the guilt that you feel may cause you to develop depression, anxiety or other mental health issues. Your mental health issues may cause a greater dependence on drugs or alcohol, which could increase your risk of getting another DUI.