I live in NJ and I know there was a bill presented recently that talked about conditional or work license for first time dui convictions. I didnt realize it hasnt past yet. I am in AA and while you would think I would be the person to come down all high and mighty on someone in your situation, that is not how I am. You can't sentence someone and include a suspension and levee all these fines against them, while taking away their ability to get to work or school. Personally I would try and meet with your lawyer and make sure there is nothing more that can be done. In my AA circles I have known people with high BAC's that haven't lost their licenses and this was after a second time. A lot of it has to do with the lawyers' relationship to the prosecutor and judge. There are mandatory punishments but judges still are allowed to use their judgement.