It’s no secret that New Jersey is an authoritarian state regarding DWI offenses. If you’re convicted of driving while intoxicated, you can face some severe penalties, including fines, jail time, and a suspended driver’s license. But what if you want to start your own business? Can you still do so with a DWI on your record?
A DWI record is a criminal record associated with driving while intoxicated. A DWI conviction can seriously impact a person’s life, including their ability to start a business. In New Jersey, a DWI conviction can prevent you from owning or operating a business. New Jersey Section 39:4-50 explicitly prohibits any person with a DWI conviction from owning or running a business.
The law is clear: if you want to start a business in New Jersey, you cannot have a DWI conviction on your record. However, there are some exceptions. Suppose you can demonstrate that you have been rehabilitated and are no longer a threat to public safety. In that case, you may be able to get a waiver from the New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
The bottom line is this: if you want to start a business in New Jersey, you need to make sure that you have a clean criminal record. A DWI conviction will almost certainly prevent you from doing so. If you’re thinking of starting your own business, talking to an attorney who can help you navigate the complex New Jersey licensing laws is essential.
However, this is not always the case. Depending on the circumstances of your case and the type of business you want to start, you may be able to get a waiver from the state that allows you to own or operate a business. It is crucial to speak with an experienced DWI lawyer to see if you are eligible for a waiver.
If you’re not eligible for a waiver, there may be other ways to start your business. You can form a limited liability company (LLC) or a corporation. These business structures provide some degree of protection from personal liability, which can be vital if you’re concerned about a potential lawsuit.
But don’t think that just because you can start a business with a DWI on your record, it’s going to be easy. The conviction will still appear on a criminal background check, and potential clients or customers may be hesitant to do business with you. You’ll also have to deal with the social stigma attached to having a DWI conviction.
So, can you start a business with a DWI record? The answer is yes, but it’s not going to be easy. You’ll need to be prepared for the challenges that come with it, and you may want to consult an attorney about your specific situation.
New Jersey’s Section 39:4-50 states that in some cases, you may be eligible for a “hardship license” that would allow you to drive for business purposes. It also says that a person cannot be the owner or operator of a commercial vehicle if convicted of driving while intoxicated. However, there are some exceptions to this law. If you have been convicted of a DWI, you may still be able to start a business if:
-You were not the owner or operator of the vehicle at the time of the offense
-You have completed all sentencing requirements, including any required alcohol education or treatment programs
-Your DWI conviction is more than ten years old
-The business is not a commercial vehicle
If you meet all of the criteria listed above, you may be able to start a business with a DWI conviction on your record. It is important to remember that each case is different, so it is best to consult with an attorney if you have any questions about starting a business with a criminal record. New Jersey law can be complex, and an experienced attorney will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your case.
