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DUI Lawyers in Jefferson, NJ
New Jersey has some of the toughest laws in the country regarding drunk driving, specifically driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI). Notably, there's a strict prohibition against plea bargaining to reduce DWI charges. A first-time conviction for drunk driving can result in hefty fines, a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days, and a 90-day suspension of your driving privileges, not to mention additional financial repercussions that can linger.
If you find yourself arrested for driving under the influence, prepare for mandatory license suspension, the potential for jail time, and a staggering minimum of $6,575 in fines and surcharges if convicted. Could you imagine having to miss out on family events and important milestones like a first date at the highest rated steakhouse in Jefferson, NJ, because your license is suspended? If your insurance company catches wind of the conviction, you may have to pay significant premium increases over the next three years
The truth is that New Jersey's courts are notoriously harsh on people arrested for DUI and DWI. The penalties are substantial and can have a lasting impact on your freedom, work, and life as a whole. Fortunately, working with a quality DUI lawyer - like Edward G. Appel - can help prevent serious charges from going on your permanent record.
- Get Your DUI Case Dismissed with Help from Attorney Edward G. Appel
- The DUI Lawyers in Jefferson, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Jefferson, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Jefferson, NJ
Edward G. Appel, Esq.
Since 1988 Edward honed his litigation expertise serving as a defense attorney in Criminal Cases, DUI/DWI and traffic matters.
His distinguished courtroom seasoning will benefit his clients as Edward focuses on criminal defense litigation. He has handled thousands of cases and is well versed in motion practice with years of trial experience. His philosophy of being well prepared has served him well over the years and is a testament to his work ethic and diligence. Email: eappel@southjerseydui.com
The DUI Lawyers in Jefferson, NJ, You Can Trust
Did you know that getting a DUI conviction in New Jersey means that you'll have that charge on your record for everyone to see? We're not just talking about friends and family. We mean loan officers, college officials, and prospective employers - people and entities that can help set you on a pathway to success in life. For that reason alone, it's absolutely essential to have a seasoned DUI attorney by your side who can fight for your rights when it's time to go to court. That's where DUI attorney Edward G. Appel comes in.
Many law firms in New Jersey view DWI cases as just another item on their agenda. At our firm, however, it's a primary focus. Unlike those where DWI matters are handled by generalists, we have built a dedicated department solely for DWI cases, staffed with highly trained attorneys who are passionate about this area of law.
This level of specialization isn't just a talking point. It reflects our commitment to providing clients with the strongest defense possible. By leveraging advanced training and a thorough understanding of New Jersey DUI laws, our team is ready to fight your DUI charges and pursue the best possible outcomes for your case. Whether you were accused of DUI while driving down the busiest highway in Jefferson, NJ or DWI while operating a motor vehicle, our attorneys are ready to take action.
At the end of the day, our goal isn't to lecture you or judge your actions. Our goal is to defend you and your rights with reliable, aggressive advocacy so you have a real shot at reclaiming your life. Some of the most common situations we help clients overcome include:
DUI Defense in New Jersey
There are several methods to challenge a DWI charge, so facing this accusation does not necessarily lead to a conviction. Attorney Edward G. Appel will examine the specifics of your case to identify the best approach to defend your rights and safeguard your freedom.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
Receiving a DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, irrespective of whether it's your first offense or a subsequent one. The best way to mitigate the risks of jail time, fines, license revocation, and other penalties is to contest your charge with the assistance of a skilled DUI attorney in Jefferson, NJ.
DUI Charges Involving Drugs in New Jersey
Being charged with DUI can happen if you're impaired by illegal substances, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. These situations tend to be complex, so having a skilled attorney is essential to effectively contest the charges.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
A DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, whether it's your first offense or if you've been charged before. The best way to avoid penalties such as jail time, fines, and license suspension is to contest your DWI charge with the assistance of a skilled attorney.
DUI Field Sobriety and BAC Tests in New Jersey
Authorities use several types of tests to ascertain whether a driver is under the influence. These tests consist of field sobriety tests, breath analysis, and blood examinations. However, the outcomes of these evaluations can sometimes be misleading. Edward G. Appel has the expertise to recognize and demonstrate the inaccuracies in these results to protect your freedom.
What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
Most people feel anxious and frightened after getting arrested for DWI because they are uncertain about what comes next. It almost feels like you're about to hike the tallest mountain near Jefferson, NJ without the proper climbing gear. That's why it's so important to understand what to anticipate following a DUI arrest - so you can prepare yourself. The initial step in the legal process is the arraignment, which is a court session that occurs soon after your DUI arrest. At this session, the judge will outline the charges that have been brought against you and give you a summary of the penalties you might face. A significant number of traffic cases are settled with plea agreements, but prosecutors are prohibited from providing these arrangements in DUI cases.
That means you have two options: You can plead guilty and face the full penalties of a DUI conviction, or you can plead not guilty and continue to fight for your rights. There is a chance that your charges could be dropped before the trial, but this usually occurs only if there are significant weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence. The judge in your case will decide the outcome after both parties have presented their evidence. Instead of going through this complicated legal process by yourself, call a New Jersey DUI lawyer like Edward G. Appel. It could mean the difference between years of hardship and a clean record.
Understanding DUI Charges in New Jersey: Criminal vs. Traffic Offenses
In New Jersey, driving under the influence (DUI) is categorized as a traffic violation, though the consequences of DUI charges are severe. However, a license suspension is not mandatory for all offenders. First-time offenders arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level under 0.15% may avoid suspension if they quickly install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their personal vehicle. Other potential penalties associated with a DUI conviction can include community service, fines, and, in certain situations, imprisonment. Depending on the circumstances of your case, working with experienced DUI attorneys in Jefferson, NJ, can help you avoid some or all of these punishments.
You may also be charged with DUI if you operate a vehicle while under the influence of any intoxicating substances, regardless of whether they are illegal, prescribed, or available over the counter. The specific type of drug is irrelevant; what matters is your impairment and inability to drive safely.
If convicted of a drug-related DUI, you could face:
- A license suspension of 7 to 12 months
- Up to 30 days of incarceration
- Fines and surcharges exceeding $3,500
A second conviction may result in a jail sentence ranging from 2 to 90 days and a 2-year suspension of your driver's license, along with increased fines and surcharges.
Here's What to Expect After Your 1st DUI Charge in New Jersey
Many individuals charged with DUI believe that they will receive leniency if it's their first offense, but this is not always true. First-time offenders may incur significant fines, up to 30 days of incarceration, and the compulsory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. Penalties increase for first-time offenders with a BAC of 0.10% or more at the time of arrest.
As mentioned above, these individuals face a longer mandatory IID installation period, larger fines, and the potential for jail time. First-time offenders will also experience a rise in their auto insurance premiums after their arrest. The State of New Jersey takes DUI offenses seriously, even for those encountering it for the first time.
Here's What to Expect After Your 2nd DUI Charge in New Jersey
It doesn't take a graduate from the largest university in Jefferson, NJ to know that getting a second DUI is bad. Defendants who are charged again within 10 years of a prior conviction face increased penalties for a second DUI offense. They may be fined up to $1,000 and must serve at least 48 hours in jail, with a maximum of 90 days. Additionally, a second conviction can lead to 30 days of community service, a one-to-two-year license suspension, and two to four years of mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) use. These consequences, along with higher insurance rates, can significantly affect a repeat offender's life.
Here's What to Expect After Your 3rd DUI Charge in New Jersey
The court has the authority to impose stringent penalties on individuals with two or more DUI convictions within the past decade. If a person is found guilty of DUI for the third time in a 10- year span, the court may sentence them to 180 days in jail along with a $1,000 fine. Those convicted for the third time will lose their driving licenses for a duration of 8 years.
The court may also require these offenders to install an ignition interlock device for a period of two to four years after their driving rights are reinstated. Because third-time offenders are categorized as high-risk drivers, they will likely face significantly increased auto insurance rates. These individuals should anticipate an extra $1,500 surcharge on their auto insurance each year for three consecutive years. Given that these penalties can have a serious impact on both personal and professional aspects of life, it is crucial to contest the charges with help from a skilled DUI attorney like Edward G. Appel.
How Do DUI Lawyers in Jefferson, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
Hiring a well-respected DUI lawyer often has a major impact on your case's outcome. Great attorneys will get started immediately by taking a deep dive into the particulars of your case. They'll look for issues with the prosecution's evidence, such as:
- Did on-scene officers follow protocol when storing samples and administering chemical tests?
- Did officers have a valid reason for pulling you over to begin with?
- Are the results from your chemical tests reliable?
If not, a lawyer can expose these concerns, potentially resulting in the dismissal of the charges. These are just a few examples of how an attorney can challenge DUI charges for you.
At the law firm of Edward G. Appel, we thoroughly investigate every detail when defending our clients. In fact, our clients benefit from personalized attention, support, and a meticulously crafted defense that aligns with the specific details of their arrest. For instance, if you're arrested for DUI near the tourist attraction with the highest rating in Jefferson, NJ, our team can examine the scene, analyze the protocols police took, and interview witnesses. We're not satisfied until our lawyers have explored every potential defense strategy for your case. Through comprehensive investigation, negotiation, and, when required, litigation, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Clients choose us not to simply enter a guilty plea but to robustly contest the charges against them. While no attorney can promise specific outcomes, we assure you that we will continue to advocate for you until you decide otherwise. We examine every detail of your case to ensure all necessary evidence is gathered and the right motions are submitted. There are motions available to suppress evidence if your constitutional rights were infringed upon during the stop, as well as motions to limit or dismiss evidence under particular conditions. Contact us today to evaluate your case. We are eager to help you, even if it's just to provide an initial consultation.
Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
The steps you take following a DUI arrest can significantly influence your chances of successfully contesting the charges. Unfortunately, many individuals fall into common traps that can worsen their situation and negatively impact the outcome of their case. Here's a list of the three most common mistakes that people tend to make after being arrested for DUI.
1. Failing to Hire Reputable DUI Attorneys in Jefferson, NJ
When selecting a lawyer for a DUI case, you can consult your family lawyer, seek a recommendation from a friend, or find a local attorney. The biggest thing to remember is that you should hire an attorney who understands DUI law and has a solid reputation in DUI defense. Legal issues can be complicated in New Jersey, which is why competent support is paramount. Presenting the right defenses at the right time is crucial; otherwise, you may lose those opportunities. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and witnesses may become unavailable. A case that seems winnable can quickly turn into a lost cause. Remember that failing to act is also a choice.
2. Downplaying DUI Consequences
Understanding the implications of a conviction is a key part of strategizing your defense and can influence your defense approach. Factors such as how your home state handles convictions, the impact of any previous offenses, whether you are a commercial driver or the potential effects on your employment should be explored with a DUI lawyer who is familiar with the possible repercussions of your unique situation.
3. Giving Up and Pleading Guilty
Anyone can choose to plead guilty. However, if you decide to challenge your DUI charge, you have a chance of winning. By pleading guilty, you forfeit that opportunity. There are many scientific and constitutional challenges that can lead to the dismissal of your DUI case. When you plead guilty, you give up your right to contest these issues and force the State to prove its case against you. It's important to check that your lawyer is well-equipped to spot the issues that could lead to a successful defense in your case
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DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Jefferson, NJ
Since 1988, Edward G. Appel, Esq. and his team of criminal defense attorneys have fought hard for the rights of clients just like you - men and women who have been charged with a DUI in New Jersey. Because the truth is that a DUI conviction can change your life in an instant.
Opportunities that you once had may be lost, sometimes forever. Having an experienced and dedicated defense attorney by your side can mean the difference between incarceration and dismissed charges or a diminished sentence. It's critical that you exercise your right to hire an attorney who can protect your freedom and defend you in court. Call the offices of Edward G. Appel to learn more about DUI law in New Jersey and to schedule your initial consultation today.
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Latest News in Jefferson, NJ
Boating in NJ – Safety Tips, Know Before You Go
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/jefferson/boating-nj-safety-tips-know-you-go
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Community CornerBe Prepared & Have Fun! Boating Safety Tips on ECOS, Weather, Speed and BUIBoat Safe US, Community ContributorWhen you’re operating a ves...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Be Prepared & Have Fun! Boating Safety Tips on ECOS, Weather, Speed and BUI
Boat Safe US, Community Contributor
When you’re operating a vessel., whether it’s a boat or personal water craft (jet ski, sea-doo, etc…), there are several safety rules and tips to follow. In New Jersey, you are required to take a NJ Boat Safety course. The NJSP requires anybody that operates a motorized vessel to have an NJSP issued Boat Safety Certificate. Take the class and exam with Boat Safe US, and you will also be NASBLA certified (you can use your NJ boat safety certificate in other states). See our schedule at www.BoatSafeUS.com. Before going out on your boat, make sure everything is packed and is in working order, file a float plan, have multiple communication devices that work when wet, and ensure each person has a properly fitting USCG approved life jacket.
Here are some other tips to boat safely and responsibly:
Use an engine cut-off switch (ECOS) – An engine cut-off switch is a proven safety device to stop an engine should the operator unexpectedly fall overboard. New Jersey is one of several states that require engine cut-off switches on recreational boats. The law applies to boats under 26 feet in length, unless they have an enclosed cabin or are not equipped with an ECOS. The operator of any vessel, including personal watercraft, equipped with a lanyard cut-off switch must wear the safety switch lanyard at all times when the vessel is in operation.
Watch the weather. Always know the forecast before departing on the water and check frequently during the outing. Be prepared to adjust your plans based on the weather conditions. Be smart and avoid boating in strong winds, heavy fog, thunderstorms, and any other bad weather. Dress for the weather on the water by wearing layers, a hat, etc., and always wear your life jacket. While you’re on the water, watch for signs of bad weather, like dark clouds, shifting winds, lightning and fog, for examples. Turn on navigational lights so other boaters can see you and slow down so you can maintain control of your vessel.
Find out what's happening in Jeffersonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times. While on the water, it is critical that there is a proper lookout. Always be alert of the effects of being on the water such as sunlight, motion, waves, wind and sound. Stay clear of large vessels and watercraft that may be restricted in their ability to stop or turn. Finally, put down the cell phone and pay attention to your surroundings. Too many reported boating incidents are caused by an operator’s inattention or an inadequate lookout.
Know where you’re going and travel at safe speeds. Be familiar with the area, local boating speed zones, and always travel at a safe speed. Use charts to determine your course. Respect speed limits and no-wake zones and do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended speed limit for your vessel. To determine a safe speed for your boat, take into account the visibility conditions (fog, mist, rain, darkness), wind, water conditions, currents, traffic density, type of vessels in the area and their proximity.
Never boat under the influence. BUI is ILLEGAL. As per the NJSP, “You are not permitted to operate a vessel while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, a narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug”. Almost half of all boating accidents involve alcohol and one-third of all recreational boating fatalities involve alcohol. Alcohol can be more hazardous on water than on land. Many factors, such as heat, sun, wind, glare from the water, motion of the boat, and increased risk of dehydration can worsen the effects of alcohol on the body. Always designate a sober captain.
Remember, have fun by staying safe on the water. Boat responsibly! By following safety guidelines, you can fully enjoy your time on the water without putting yourself or others in danger.
See our Boat Safe US Blog for more safety tips and information: Captain's Blog | Boat Safe Us LLC
All of us at Boat Safe US hope to see you on the water!
Happy Boating!
#wearit #lifejacketsSAVElives #weloveboating #safeboating #njboating #boatsfafety
Morris/Sussex girls basketball: Here's our Top 10 with county tournament semifinals ahead
Jane Havsyhttps://www.dailyrecord.com/story/sports/high-school/basketball/2025/02/12/nj-girls-basketball-northwest-jersey-athletic-conference-top-10-rankings/78339450007/
It's time for the Hunterdon/Warren/Sussex and Morris County Tournament girls basketball semifinals. And the teams might not be who even the most dedicated fans were expecting to see.The ...
It's time for the Hunterdon/Warren/Sussex and Morris County Tournament girls basketball semifinals. And the teams might not be who even the most dedicated fans were expecting to see.
The MCT quarterfinals were marked by narrow upsets and massive blowouts. The top two seeds – three-time defending champion Morris Catholic and recurring final foe Chatham – had little trouble in their quarters. But third-seeded Madison lost, 32-30, to sixth seed Jefferson in the opening quarterfinal, and host Morris Knolls fell to fifth-seeded Morristown by a single point, 33-32.
Chatham topped Jefferson in a MCT semifinal last winter, as well as in a quarterfinal in 2022. Jefferson beat Chatham to win the 2012 MCT title. Morris Catholic, meanwhile, defeated Morristown to win the first of its three MCT titles in 2022.
Farther out west, Phillipsburg High School will host both the girls and boys HWS semifinals on Saturday. Top seed Pope John continues its HWS title defense against fifth-seeded Delaware Valley. Third seed Sparta crushed Newton in a quarterfinal, and will now take on returning finalist Voorhees.
Voorhees beat Sparta, 45-36, in a semifinal last winter. However, Sparta won en route to the 2023 title, its third straight.
The NJSIAA Tournament cutoff is on Saturday, and brackets come out on Tuesday. Before the statewide computers weigh in, how much has the Morris/Sussex girls basketball Top 10 changed?
10. Newton (16-2)
Last week: No. 10
Undefeated atop the NJAC-Colonial, Newton got bounced out of the HWS quarters by Sparta, snapping a seven-game winning streak. Senior guard Sophia May averages 11.1 points, 8.2 rebounds and 3.6 assists.
Up next: Saturday at Belvidere
9. Mountain Lakes (15-4)
Last week: No. 9
Senior Abby Hawes averages 16.9 points, 4.4 rebounds and 4.2 steals. The Lakers, who have won eight of 10, close out the NJAC-Liberty schedule on the road.
Up next: Thursday at Hanover Park, Tuesday at Morristown Beard
8. Madison (16-5)
Last week: No. 4
Charlotte Tuhy (25.8 ppg., 8.7 rpg., 4.5 apg.), the Dodgers' 6-foot-1 senior forward, continues to close in on the all-time Morris County scoring record. Madison has won seven of 10.
Up next: Saturday at Montville, Tuesday vs. Hanover Park
7. Jefferson (15-4)
Last week: No. 8
Unbeaten atop the NJAC-Freedom, sixth-seeded Jefferson pulled off the quarterfinal upset of Madison on Feb. 8. Senior Madison Manco (7.4 ppg.) had 11 points and junior Riley Strauch (4.4 ppg.) added 10 for the Falcons, whose reward is a date with second seed Chatham.
Up next: Wednesday vs. Sparta, Friday vs. Chatham in MCT semifinal at CCM, Monday at North Warren, Tuesday at West Morris
6. Sparta (14-6)
Last week: No. 7
Senior forward Molly Chapman (14.3 ppg., 5.8 rpg.) is Sparta's only scorer averaging more than 10 points. The Spartans have won four straight, including a 63-19 HWS quarterfinal against Newton on Feb. 8.
Up next: Wednesday at Jefferson, Saturday vs. Voorhees in HWS semifinal at Phillipsburg, Tuesday vs. Parsippany Hills
5. Morris Knolls (16-4)
Last week: No. 6
The Golden Eagles suffered their first NJAC-National loss, 48-46, to Parsippany Hills on Jan. 28. Their MCT quarterfinal against Morristown on Feb. 8 was even closer, a 33-32 loss. Led by senior guard Charlee Perna (10 ppg., 4.5 spg.) Morris Knolls is averaging 10.6 points more than opponents.
Up next: Thursday at Mount Olive, Tuesday at Morris Hills
4. Morristown (15-6)
Last week: No. 5
Freshman Nawel Ibazatene Lefebvre (18.9 ppg., 4.1 rpg.) had a team-high 10 points as the Colonials edged host Morris Knolls in a quarterfinal, setting up a semi versus Morris Catholic. Morristown has won six of its last 10.
Up next: Thursday at Chatham, Friday vs. Morris Catholic in MCT semifinal at CCM, Tuesday at Randolph
3. Pope John (14-4)
Last week: No. 3
Junior wing Mia Washington (18.8 ppg., 5.2 rpg.) reached 1,000 points in Pope John's home victory on Feb. 11. The Lions have won eight of 10, and are slated to wrap up their NJAC-American slate before moving on in HWS.
Up next: Thursday at Randolph, Saturday vs. Delaware Valley in HWS semifinal at Phillipsburg, Tuesday vs. Saddle River Day
2. Chatham (22-1)
Last week: No. 2
Chatham has reached at least the MCT semifinal for eight years in a row, last winning the title in 2018. The Cougars held their first two MCT opponents to 19 points each. They have won seven straight games.
Up next: Thursday vs. Morristown, Friday vs. Jefferson in MCT semifinal at CCM, Tuesday at Mendham
1. Morris Catholic (19-0)
Last week: No. 1
The only undefeated Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference team left, Morris Catholic has outscored its opponents by 32.4 points per game. The Crusaders are on a 23-game winning streak, dating back to last season. The current seniors have gone 98-6, including 49 straight wins against New Jersey opponents.
Up next: Friday vs. Morristown in MCT semifinal at CCM, Tuesday vs. Plainfield
Also considered: Kittatinny (17-5), Roxbury (12-7), West Morris (13-9).
Special education aide at N.J. school fired after disclosing pregnancy, lawsuit says
Anthony G. Attrinohttps://www.nj.com/morris/2025/03/special-education-aide-at-nj-school-fired-after-disclosing-pregnancy-lawsuit-says.html
A former special education aide has filed a lawsuit against the Jefferson Township Board of Education in Morris County, alleging she was unlawfully reassigned and ultimately fired due to her pregnancy.Tiffany Messina, who worked at White Rock Elementary School, claims in a complaint filed in New Jersey Superior Court that school officials discriminated against her after she disclosed her pregnancy in January 2024.The lawsuit, filed Jan. 8, names the school board, Principal Michael Valenti, and Superintendent Jeanne Howe....
A former special education aide has filed a lawsuit against the Jefferson Township Board of Education in Morris County, alleging she was unlawfully reassigned and ultimately fired due to her pregnancy.
Tiffany Messina, who worked at White Rock Elementary School, claims in a complaint filed in New Jersey Superior Court that school officials discriminated against her after she disclosed her pregnancy in January 2024.
The lawsuit, filed Jan. 8, names the school board, Principal Michael Valenti, and Superintendent Jeanne Howe.
Valenti and Howe did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Thursday. A spokesperson for the Jefferson Township School District did not return a call seeking comment.
Messina was initially assigned to a classroom for students with autism spectrum disorder, where she had received positive feedback.
However, after informing Valenti of her pregnancy, she alleges he removed her from the special education setting, citing concerns for her safety.
“I don’t want you to get hit in the special education classroom,” Valenti allegedly told her, according to the lawsuit.
He later reassigned her to a different autism spectrum disorder classroom, stating she was “less likely to get punched in the stomach.”
Messina contends that after she fell ill in March 2024 and took a school-approved leave, she was accused of misconduct upon her return.
Valenti allegedly told her he had received reports that she hit a child and used profanity in front of students —allegations she denies.
After the accusations, Messina said she made multiple attempts to contact Valenti but received no response.
She was later terminated by Howe, who allegedly refused to discuss her absences or the allegations against her.
The district fired Messina without the required 14 days' notice, violating her employment contract, the suit alleges.
Messina is suing for violations of the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, breach of contract, and emotional distress.
She is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, attorney’s fees, and a jury trial.
Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.
Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
Morris Co. Special Education Teacher Was Fired For Being Pregnant: Lawsuit
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/jefferson/pregnant-special-education-aide-jefferson-sues-school-board
A former special education aide at White Rock Elementary School in Jefferson Township is claiming a breach of contract in her lawsuit. Krystin Barnett, Patch Staff|Updated Thu, Mar 13, 2025 at 3:42 pm ETJEFFERSON, NJ — A former special education aide at White Rock Elementary says she was reassigned and later fired for revealing her pregnancy to Principal Michael Valenti, the West Milford resident claims in a l...
A former special education aide at White Rock Elementary School in Jefferson Township is claiming a breach of contract in her lawsuit.
Krystin Barnett, Patch Staff
|Updated Thu, Mar 13, 2025 at 3:42 pm ET
JEFFERSON, NJ — A former special education aide at White Rock Elementary says she was reassigned and later fired for revealing her pregnancy to Principal Michael Valenti, the West Milford resident claims in a lawsuit.
Tiffany Messina was hired in November 2023 to support the Autism Spectrum Disorder class seven hours per day, four days per week. Her hours were increased slightly in January 2024 to seven hours and 15 minutes per day, four days per week.
In January 2024, Messina disclosed her pregnancy to Valenti, and therefore would not be able to work at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year.
During a pre-approved vacation in March 2024, Messina said she received an email from Valenti advising her that she will be moved out of the special education class to four general education classes instead.
When Messina questioned the change, Valenti explained the move was because Messina was pregnant. "I don’t want you to get hit in the special education classroom,” Valenti said, according to the lawsuit.
Find out what's happening in Jeffersonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
However, Messina's preference was to work in the special education classes.
In April 2024, Valenti moved Messina back to a special education classroom, albeit one with older students. Valenti expressed that he felt the environment in an older age class was safer, according to the lawsuit.
On April 18, 2024, Valenti again spoke with Messina and advised she was "a little bit in trouble," according to the lawsuit.
Valenti told Messina he had received several reports stating Messina hit a child in January 2024 and stated, "I can’t wait to get the f___ out of here" in front of students, according to the lawsuit.
Messina asserts she never hit a student or used expletives in front of students.
The lawsuit states that on April 19, 2024, Messina tried and failed to reach Valenti by phone. She left a message requesting to speak with him and relayed that she was too upset by the accusations to work that day.
The following Monday, she claims she sent an email to Valenti advising him that she wished to continue work for the rest of the year but was upset over the accusation. Messina again did not report to work.
On April 25, 2024, Valenti returned Messina's call and instructed her to "sit tight," according to the lawsuit. Messina did not report to work until the following day, during which she was called to Superintendent Jeanne Howe's office.
Howe informed Messina she was being terminated for abandoning her job, according to the lawsuit.
Messina says her absences were approved by the school board. Messina further claims she did not receive pay past April 26, the date she was fired.
The lawsuit states that Messina's employment contract requires a written termination with 14 days advance notice, and that the termination is a violation of the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination.
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Carbon Monoxide Sickens NJ Family of Four
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/jefferson/carbon-monoxide-sickens-nj-family-four
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Health & Fitness​NJ Poison Control Center experts warn of unsafe use of portable gas generators and to check CO detector batteries with the time change.NJ Poison Control Center, Community ContributorThe New Jer...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
​NJ Poison Control Center experts warn of unsafe use of portable gas generators and to check CO detector batteries with the time change.
NJ Poison Control Center, Community Contributor
The New Jersey Poison Control Center in January assisted in the medical care of a family exposed to dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) from the exhaust fumes of a portable gas generator running in the basement.
The adults and their children experienced symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and required treatment in the emergency room.
“Fortunately, this family’s exposure to carbon monoxide didn’t end in tragedy,” said Bruce Ruck, managing director of the New Jersey Poison Control Center at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. “Carbon monoxide poisoning is a hidden hazard that worries us at the poison control center year-round, especially during cold weather and storms that cause power outages, flooding and snow accumulation. People and pets are often accidentally exposed to CO when gas-powered equipment, including portable generators, are used indoors or too close to homes and buildings.”
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, poisonous gas that causes mild to severe illness to hundreds of people in New Jersey each year. Breathing in carbon monoxide, often referred to as “the silent killer,” can quickly become life-threatening and must be treated as a medical emergency. There is no safe level of carbon monoxide for anyone, including pets.
It is crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning and act quickly, poison control experts said. Early symptoms of CO poisoning can be mistaken for symptoms of the common cold, flu, or COVID-19. If symptoms improve while outside, consider that carbon monoxide may be lurking inside your home, causing symptoms of CO poisoning.
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Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. At high levels, exposure to carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness and death.
To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, keep running gas generators outdoors only. Because gas-powered equipment produces carbon monoxide, they should never be used indoors, no matter the circumstance, experts said.
Generators should be placed outside more than 20 feet away with exhausts directed away from your home and your neighbors’ homes. This will prevent dangerous levels of CO from building up inside and poisoning those exposed to it. Gas generators are safe when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and kept at the recommended distance from homes and buildings. (Consumer Reports details crucial safety tips on operating a generator.)
“This gas gives no warning, meaning you can’t see, smell, hear or taste it,” Ruck said. The only way to know if CO is inside your home is to have working carbon monoxide detectors on every floor and outside sleeping areas. “If a carbon monoxide detector sounds its alarm, do not ignore it because it’s trying to save your life.”
Carbon monoxide detectors don’t malfunction as often as people may think. Check CO detector units and batteries twice a year when changing the clocks for daylight saving time. “CO detectors save lives, so be sure to have them in your home or apartment,” said Ruck.
If you suspect someone is experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, get medical help immediately:
If you have questions or concerns about carbon monoxide, contact the New Jersey Poison Control Center immediately for medical treatment advice. Anyone can call for medical help – children, teens and adults.
Poison control centers are a medical resource for the public and health care providers. Get help 24/7: Call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 or start an online chat. If someone isn’t breathing, is having difficulty waking up or having a seizure, call 911.
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