Justin Timberlake‘s driver’s license has been suspended in New York after he refused a breathalyzer test. During a virtual hearing, Sag Harbor Justice Carl Irace reprimanded Timberlake’s attorney, Edward Burke Jr., for making “irresponsible” comments in a previous court session. The judge warned that a gag order could be issued if such comments continued.
Timberlake appeared via video conference from Belgium, dressed in a black collared shirt. The hearing focused on Timberlake’s refusal to take a breathalyzer when pulled over on June 18. Irace emphasized that the suspension would last for the pendency of the case.
Timberlake’s Attorney’s Response
Burke Jr. expressed his intent to file motions, stating, “The content of those motions and the arguments contained therein will speak for themselves.” He maintained that Timberlake was not intoxicated when stopped by the police.
Timberlake was arrested in the Hamptons area after failing field sobriety tests. He claimed to have had only “one martini” and was following friends home. The police report noted Timberlake’s bloodshot eyes, strong alcohol odor, and poor performance on sobriety tests. Timberlake declined to undergo a chemical test for impairment.
Irace’s reprimand of Burke Jr. highlighted the judge’s concern about potentially biased statements. “It comes off as an attempt to poison the case before it even begins,” Irace said. Burke Jr. dismissed the likelihood of a gag order, saying, “We all have jobs to do, and we’re obligated to zealously defend our clients.”
The next hearing is scheduled for August 9, which Timberlake is not required to attend. Another hearing is set for September 13, contingent on the August proceedings. Legal analysts suggest that Timberlake’s refusal to take a breathalyzer could be introduced as evidence of guilt at trial. NBC News legal analyst Danny Cevallos commented, “A refusal can be introduced at trial to establish conscious evidence of guilt.”