Q: What does the word operate mean in statue 39:4-50?
Someone advised me that the NJ AG made it clear that “operate” means in forward motion. Which from my understanding would exclude parked vehicles and vehicles running but not in motion.
A: Even if the AG made this clear its up to a judge to determine and unfortunately the courts have made operation not just actual operation but go by whether the person had the ability to operate the vehicle in general. If your charged with a DWI or DUI get a good lawyer as the laws are against you in these cases and only a good lawyer can help you even up the score.
A: Although this offense is referred to as "Driving While Intoxicated," the case law on the DWI statute's "operation" element is much broader than the common understanding of the word "driving." This charge is not categorically indefensible, but it is considerable challenge for a defendant who does not know the intricacies of the law. Get a lawyer who actually knows this area of the law for a fighting chance in court.
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
