Michael J Beatrice | Attorney At Law

Free Initial Consultation | Call 201-897-3570

Michael J Beatrice | Attorney At Law

Call 201-897-3570

Michael J Beatrice | Attorney At Law

201-897-3570

A Fierce Advocate For

Clients’ Rights

Skilled Representation For CDL DWI Charges In Hackensack, New Jersey

Last updated on June 27, 2025

DWI charges pose serious consequences for any driver, but for commercial driver license (CDL) holders, the stakes are exponentially higher. A single DWI conviction can destroy your commercial driving career, eliminate your income and devastate your family’s financial stability.

DWI attorney Michael J. Beatrice brings over 40 years of experience as both a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney to every CDL case in Hackensack, Bergen County and throughout New Jersey. At Michael J. Beatrice, P.C., Attorney at Law, his vast experience and depth of knowledge with DWI charges have helped thousands of clients navigate these complex cases. Mr. Beatrice’s unique legal perspective, gained from prosecuting DWI cases for 18 years in Fort Lee and Mahwah Municipal Courts, gives him unparalleled insight into the most effective strategies for getting charges dismissed or reduced.

Stricter BAC Limits For CDL Holders

Commercial drivers face significantly stricter blood alcohol concentration standards than regular motorists. While noncommercial drivers may be charged with DWI at .08% BAC, CDL holders face charges at just .04% BAC when operating commercial vehicles.

Mr. Beatrice was among the first lawyers in New Jersey trained by the manufacturer of the Alcotest Breath Testing Device and has taken certification courses for Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. His knowledge of testing equipment and its potential for error is crucial for CDL defense cases, as breathalyzer errors and improper calibration can lead to inaccurate results.

Will You Lose Your CDL If You Get A DWI In New Jersey?

A DWI conviction creates severe consequences for CDL holders that extend far beyond typical driver penalties. Federal regulations impose strict disqualification rules that can end your commercial driving career.

  • First DWI conviction: Results in one-year CDL disqualification, regardless of whether you were driving a commercial or personal vehicle
  • Second DWI conviction: Results in lifetime CDL disqualification with potential reinstatement only after 10 years
  • Employment consequences: Many trucking companies maintain zero-tolerance policies for DWI convictions
  • Financial impact: Lost wages, career limitations and potential difficulty finding future employment

These consequences apply even if you receive a reduced charge or participate in diversionary programs, making immediate legal representation critical.

Legal Traffic Stops For Commercial Vehicles

Law enforcement must have valid justification to stop commercial vehicles, and understanding these requirements is essential for CDL defense. Officers can conduct traffic stops for CDL holders based on several legitimate reasons.

  • Observed traffic violations: Speeding, improper lane changes or other moving violations
  • Equipment violations: Faulty lights, brakes or other safety equipment issues
  • Routine safety inspections: Designated checkpoints and regulatory compliance checks
  • Hours of Service violations: Reasonable suspicion of logbook or driving time violations

Random stops without specific cause are generally prohibited and can form the basis for challenging any evidence obtained during the stop.

Contact Michael J. Beatrice, P.C., Attorney at Law, For CDL DWI Defense

If you hold a CDL and face DWI charges in Hackensack or throughout New Jersey, contact attorney Michael J. Beatrice at Michael J. Beatrice, P.C., Attorney at Law, immediately. Call 201-897-3570 or reach out online to schedule your consultation and protect your commercial driving career.