Refusal

A refusal charge in New Jersey is punished very severely. Many people would not anticipate that refusing to blow into a Alchotest machine could subject them to the same penalties as a DWI (driving while intoxicated) conviction, but in reality the penalties could be even more unforgiving.

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What Is A Refusal?

Because New Jersey is an “implied consent” state, all drivers have legally consented to a submitting to a breath analysis (providing the procedure is lawful) the moment they received their license. Refusal to submit one's breath for a chemical analysis is both against the law and in violation of the consent previously given. When asked if willing to submit to a chemical analysis, the only acceptable answer is an affirmative “yes.” Any conditional yes, other response, or silence will result in a refusal conviction. Law enforcement officials or police officers have strict procedural guidelines they must follow to the letter when administering a breathalyzer test. 

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I Thought I Had The Right To Remain Silent?

You do have the right to remain silent,  but a breath sample is not been considered a statement and therefore if you don't agree to the test you will be charged with refusal to submit to a chemical test. All drivers have already consented to the Alchotest being administered and refusal to blow will result in serious consequences.  Remaining silent is equated with refusing the breathalyzer test. Refusal under current law isn't always the worst thing as a refusal does not result result in a lengthy license suspension on a first offense as it has in the past. i does however require an ignition interlock device and many of the same penalties, with the exception of jail, as a DWI. 

 

What Are The Penalties For Refusing A chemical analysis In New Jersey ?

Penalties for a first offense refusal in New Jersey are harsh but there is no lengthy loss of license.  At the time of sentencing the driver loses their drivers license indefinitely until such time that an interlock device is installed on their vehicle. The interlock must be installed for a minimum of nine (9) months to a maximum of fifteen (15) months. The judge has no discretion and must require an  ignition interlock device, as it is a mandatory penalty for a refusal charge. As would be expected, the penalties increase for a Second offense.  A second offender will have a license loss of one (1) to two (2) years during which time an interlock device must be installed on their vehicle and then the interlock must remain in installed for a period of two (2) up to a maximum of four (4) years after the license is re-instated.   A third refusal can result in an eight (8) year license suspension and then the interlock must remain in installed for a period of two (2) up to a maximum of four (4) years after the license is re-instated.