Sobriety Tests

Police in New Jersey are generally required to conduct field sobriety tests before issuing a citation or arresting someone on a drunk driving charge. You may also be required to perform a Breathalyzer or Intoxilyzer test, to test your blood alcohol level (BAL). Our Monmouth County DUI lawyers can explain how these tests work.

Although you are allowed under the law to refuse either or both of these tests, refusal to take field sobriety tests or the Intoxilyzer test, the police will issue a DUI or DWI citation just as if you had tested positive for alcohol consumption.

As part of your DUI defense, your attorney will examine the ways in which the police officers administered the field sobriety tests. There are many issues that can be raised — in terms of how the police conducted the tests, what the weather and road conditions were at the time the tests were administered, and whether the tests were administered according to proper procedure.

At Goldstein Law Group, our DUI defense attorneys have significant experience challenging the administration of field sobriety tests, in order to help our clients achieve reductions or dismissals of DUI charges. Contact our office in Metuchen, New Jersey, to schedule a Free 10 Minute Case Evaluation*. We also have satellite offices in Freehold/Manalapan and Eatontown.

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New Jersey police officers may administer any of several different types of field sobriety tests, including:

• The horizontal gaze nystagmus test: In this test, police attempt to determine how well the individual’s eyes track — or follow — a moving object
• The head tilt test
• Finger-to-nose test
• One-leg balance test
• Heel-to-toe test
• Reciting the alphabet, either forwards or backwards
• Counting

It is possible to fight a DUI arrest, to avoid fines and penalties, possible jail time, higher insurance rates and a criminal record. By seeking immediate legal help after a DUI arrest, you give your attorney the best chance of building a strong defense on your behalf.

At Goldstein Law Group in Monmouth County, we offer a Free 10 Minute Case Evaluation* with one of our lawyers to all potential new clients. To make a confidential appointment, call (732) 967-6777, or send us an e-mail.