Getting a DUI charge in New Jersey can be a stressful and confusing experience. Many people worry about the consequences beyond legal penalties, including the possibility of eviction.
Understanding how a DUI charge might impact one’s housing situation is important when facing criminal suspicion.
Grounds for eviction
Landlords cannot evict tenants simply because they have a DUI charge. New Jersey eviction law outlines specific legal grounds for eviction. These include actions such as not paying rent, violating the lease agreement or causing damage to the property. A DUI charge alone does not fall under these categories.
When DUI can lead to eviction
If a DUI leads to behaviors that violate the lease terms, the situation changes. For example, if the lease prohibits criminal activity on the property and the DUI charge involves illegal activity, the landlord may have grounds for eviction. Similarly, if the DUI results in disturbances or damage to the property, the landlord might take action.
Criminal charges and rent payment
Another consideration is the impact on the tenant’s ability to pay rent. A DUI charge often comes with significant financial penalties, which can strain one’s finances. If paying fines and legal fees makes it difficult to pay rent on time, the landlord could have grounds to start eviction proceedings.
Other results of a DUI
Landlords may also conduct regular background checks when renewing leases. If a tenant’s lease is up for renewal and the DUI charge appears on a background check, the landlord may decide not to renew the lease. This situation is not the same as an eviction but still results in the tenant needing to find new housing.
New Jersey law requires landlords to follow strict procedures when evicting a tenant. The landlord must provide written notice and may need to take the case to court. Tenants have the right to contest the eviction and present their side. However, a DUI charge does not automatically lead to eviction.
