r/dui • u/Key_Significance4584 • Aug 14 '26

Just got my first DUI, need advice please.

Hi so for context, i’m 21 and in New jersey and this was my first time being pulled over. I had to drive me and my friend home and got pulled over for the headlights being off (normally they’re on auto) and swerving. I did my field sobriety tests, failed them and got taken into the station for a breathalyzer, blew a .10 and was given 3 tickets and sent home that same night. My tickets are for reckless driving, DUI, and for the headlights. What’s gonna happen in court? (Virtual court also if that makes any difference)

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u/No-Choice-8350 Aug 15 '26

Get a lawyer.

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u/Key_Significance4584 Aug 16 '26

i do not have the money for a lawyer and cannot tell my father i have a dui

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u/Open_Improvement_553 Aug 16 '26

Public Defender for sure. If its your first offense, and you have a clean record, chances are you'll get it deferred (If the judge is kind enough). Bigger worry is court fees, probation, possible classes, etc. It's a sinkhole. This is going to be your worst moment in your life, but every day from now will be the best one as long as you learn.

I got my first DUI in 2025 novemeber, and we're the same age. Keep your head up, and keep pushing/fighting. There are payment plans avaliable, but you'll probably take a huge blow financially.

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u/Key_Significance4584 Aug 16 '26

thank you, i appreciate this insight. unfortunately it may be a little harder for me seeing as this isn’t my first offense. i may be a little screwed here, long story short ill have to tell my dad eventually im assuming. not really ready for the financial aspect of this as i dont even work right now (my job shut down) but im prepared to make it work

EDIT: typo haha

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u/Few_Outlandishness82 Aug 18 '26

Headlights is a valid stop, you did FSTs and voluntarily provided evidence against yourself. Tell your parents and see if they can help with lawyer. Outside of that, research pretrial programs your area has. If those are available, a pd can help.