DWI in School Zones in NJ: What You Need to Know.

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) in New Jersey is always a serious offense—but when it happens in a school zone, the consequences can be even more severe. If you’ve been charged with a DWI in a school zone in Burlington County or anywhere in South Jersey, it’s important to understand what you’re up against and how an experienced attorney can help.

In this post, we’ll walk you through:

What qualifies as a DWI school zone offense

Why penalties are enhanced

What towns and counties in South Jersey are strict about enforcement

How we defend clients facing these charges

What Is Considered a DWI in a School Zone in NJ?

Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-50(g), a person can face enhanced DWI penalties if the offense occurs:

On school property used for school purposes

Within 1,000 feet of school property

While driving through a designated school crossing

In an area where children are present and signs designate it as a school zone

This means you don’t need to be driving during school hours to face these charges. Simply being within the designated distance or location can trigger school zone DWI enhancements—even if school is not in session.

Why Are Penalties More Severe in School Zones?

The State of New Jersey takes the safety of children extremely seriously. Lawmakers enacted enhanced penalties to deter drunk driving in areas where children are most vulnerable. These penalties are separate from and in addition to the base DWI penalties.

If convicted, you could face:

Increased fines

Longer license suspension

Jail time

Community service

And importantly, you cannot apply for a conditional license in New Jersey—even for work or school purposes.

📌 Reference: New Jersey MVC – DWI Penalties

Penalties for DWI in School Zones: A Breakdown

Here’s how penalties differ compared to a standard DWI charge in New Jersey:

First Offense in a School Zone

-Fine: $500–$800

=Jail time: 60–90 days

-License suspension: 1–2 years

=Possible ignition interlock device

Second Offense in a School Zone

-Fine: $1,000–$2,000

-Jail time: 96 hours to 180 days

-License suspension: 4 years

-60 days of community service

-Mandatory ignition interlock

Third or Subsequent Offense

-Fine: $2,000

-Jail time: 180 days minimum

-License suspension: 20 years

-Permanent mark on your driving record

Local Enforcement: What to Know in South Jersey

DWI school zone laws are enforced aggressively in many parts of South Jersey, especially in larger towns with high foot traffic and schools near major roadways. Towns such as:

Mount Laurel

Medford

Burlington City

Evesham

Cherry Hill

Camden

Voorhees

Gloucester Township

Moorestown

Maple Shade

Police officers in these areas often conduct routine traffic stops near school zones and will not hesitate to pursue charges if they suspect impairment. Even a BAC (blood alcohol content) of 0.08%—the legal limit—can land you in serious legal trouble if you’re in a school zone.

How an Experienced NJ DWI Attorney Can Help

Facing a DWI charge—especially in a school zone—can be overwhelming. You may be worried about your future, your license, your job, or even your ability to care for your family. That’s where we come in.

As a solo criminal law practitioner serving clients across Burlington County and Southern New Jersey, I approach each case with care, attention, and local insight. I know how local prosecutors and judges view school zone DWI charges, and I work hard to protect your rights from the very first call.

Here’s what I can do:

Examine the circumstances of your arrest

Review the calibration and use of breathalyzer devices

Evaluate the accuracy of police procedures

Determine whether the area qualifies as a school zone under the law

Seek to reduce or dismiss charges when possible

In some cases, we’ve successfully argued that signage was insufficient, or that school was not in session and no children were present—key facts that may be used in your defense.

What to Do If You’ve Been Charged with a DWI in a School Zone

Don’t panic. Charges are serious, but they are not the end of the road.

Do not speak to police or prosecutors without representation.

Contact an attorney immediately. Time is critical when building a defense.

Every day you wait makes it harder to preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and prepare the strongest possible case.

Serving Clients Across Burlington County, Camden County and Beyond

Our office proudly represents clients in:

Burlington County

Camden County

Gloucester County

As well as nearby towns including Mount Laurel, Cherry Hill, Evesham, and Voorhees

We understand the local court systems, the prosecutors, and the nuances of NJ DWI law. That experience matters, especially when your future is on the line.

Get Help Today – Your Future Is Too Important to Leave to Chance

A school zone DWI charge carries life-changing consequences. But with the right legal strategy, there may be options available to minimize the impact or avoid the harshest penalties.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Let’s talk about your case and how I can help. Your call is confidential and judgment-free.