NJ Extradition Waiver

If you are arrested outside of New Jersey on an outstanding NJ warrant, you may have the option to waive extradition. Waiving extradition means voluntarily agreeing to return to NJ to face charges, instead of fighting the transfer through a formal extradition hearing. There are pros and cons to waiving extradition that need to be weighed carefully before making a decision. Here is what you need to know about extradition waiver in New Jersey criminal cases.

What is Extradition Waiver?

Extradition is the process of transferring a criminal suspect or fugitive back to the jurisdiction where charges are pending. It happens between U.S. states under the Extradition Clause of the Constitution. Normally, prosecutors must obtain a governor's warrant, then persuade a judge in the asylum state (where you are located) to approve your extradition back to the demanding state (NJ). But you can short-circuit this formal process by simply signing an extradition waiver. This voluntary agreement returns you to NJ without the need for a governor's warrant or court hearing.

When Might Extradition Waiver Make Sense?

There are some situations where waiving extradition could potentially benefit you:

• Avoid sitting in jail through a lengthy extradition battle
• Expedite your return to NJ to start preparing your defense
• Demonstrate cooperation and good faith to prosecutors
• Prevent prosecutors from adding more charges related to fleeing justice

Waiving extradition gets you back to New Jersey quickly so you can work with your attorney on resolving the charges.

Downsides and Risks of Waiving Extradition

There are also risks involved in giving up your right to an extradition hearing:

• Immediate return to NJ rather than buying time in the asylum state
• Give up the chance to challenge flaws in the extradition request
• Prosecutors may see it as an admission of guilt
• New Jersey judges may deny bail once you are returned

Talk through all pros and cons thoroughly with your criminal defense lawyer before making any waiver decisions.

Can a Voluntary Extradition Waiver be Withdrawn?

In most cases, once you sign an extradition waiver it cannot be withdrawn. The asylum state will promptly arrange for officers to pick you up and transport you back to New Jersey. However, if there are exceptional circumstances, like law enforcement delays, your attorney may be able to file a motion to rescind the waiver. This argues there is good cause to reverse your extradition consent.

The Extradition Waiver Process in New Jersey

The process for waiving extradition typically involves:

1. NJ prosecutors send waiver paperwork to the asylum state
2. You meet with your lawyer to discuss waiver pros/cons
3. If you consent, you and your lawyer sign the waiver form
4. The asylum state arranges your prompt transport back to NJ
5. You appear before a NJ judge for a first appearance

The whole process can happen in a matter of days compared to weeks or months for formal extradition.

Waiving Extradition to Another State

If you are arrested in New Jersey on an out-of-state warrant, you also have the option to waive extradition to the demanding state. Reasons to consent to extradition include:

• Expedite your transfer rather than fight it
• Start negotiating plea deals or trial defenses sooner
• Avoid harsher punishment for resisting extradition

Be sure to consult an attorney licensed in the other state before deciding whether to waive extradition.

Using Extradition Waiver in Plea Negotiations

Prosecutors may offer incentives in exchange for waiving extradition, such as:

• Agreeing to reasonable bail upon your return
• Dropping additional charges related to fleeing prosecution
• Recommendation for a lenient sentence

Your defense attorney may be able to negotiate favorable plea deals by leveraging your willingness to voluntarily return to NJ.

Waiving Extradition on Probation or Parole Violations

If you waived extradition for the original criminal charges, that waiver may also apply if you later violate probation or parole. This means you could be returned to NJ without an additional hearing. However, your lawyer may still be able to challenge extradition if the original waiver was improperly obtained or does not apply.

Consult an Attorney Before Waiving Extradition

The decision to waive or fight extradition is complex, with long-term consequences. Never sign extradition paperwork without first consulting privately with an experienced criminal defense attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer can advise you on the best course of action for your unique situation and goals.