DUI Lawyers in Madison, 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. 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 Madison, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Madison, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Madison, 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 Madison, 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.
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 Madison, 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 New York Life Building near Madison, 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 Madison, 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 University of WisconsinMadison in Madison, 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 Madison, 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 Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison, 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 Madison, 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
Get Help Now!
Get in touch with us now! or Call us today to get a free quote!


DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Madison, 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.
Hear What Our Clients Have to Say
Send a Message
Latest News in Madison, NJ
Fun Friday Pop Up Vendors at Garden Cottage
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/madison/calendar/event/20250502/79eb2f28-8726-4d33-b542-848f7f04cfc1/fun-friday-pop-up-vendors-at-garden-cottage
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Basking Ridge, NJ|Featured EventNatalie Monteverde, NeighborMay2Fri, May 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Basking Ridge, NJ|Featured Event
May2
- Fri, May 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM
- Garden Cottage, 1211 Mt Kemble Ave, Morristown, NJ, 07960
Waiting for the Sun and Garden Cottage are hosting a Spring Pop-Up event with Birch House Candles and Surly Girl Soap & Skincare.
They create products with intention, small batch, natural ingredients and perfect for gifting and a little self-care. ????
Stop in, meet the owners, have a glass of rose and do a little retail therapy. Just in time to get that Mother’s Day gift all wrapped up!
More Upcoming Events
Local Event
May2
Madison Community Blood Drive
Friday, 1:30 pmMadison, NJ
Featured Event
May3
Pathways of History: Museum & Site Tours, May 3-4
Saturday, 9:00 amMorristown, NJ
Local Event
May3
Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey - Start a New Troop ~ Sparkling Unicorn Adventure!
Saturday, 9:00 amMadison, NJ
Featured Event
May3
5 Things About Estate Planning You Must Know When You Turn 65 (WEBINAR)
Saturday, 11:00 amParamus, NJ
Local Event
May3
Thomas H. Kean Theatre Factory Tour
Saturday, 11:00 amMadison, NJ
Local Event
May3
Makerspace
Saturday, 11:00 amMadison, NJ
Madison Boys Lacrosse: Dodgers Defeated in Back and Forth Clash
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/madison/sections/sports/articles/madison-boys-lacrosse-dodgers-defeated-in-back-and-forth-clash
Madison celebrates with James Fox after Fox's goal in the second quarter against Glen RidgePhoto Credit: Charlie DeLucaColin Byam rushes into the attacking zone in the first half against Glen RidgePhoto Credit: Charlie DeLucaMadison celebrates with James Fox after Fox's goal in the second quarter against Glen RidgePhoto Credit: Charlie DeLucaPreviousNext By Charlie DeLucaPublished April 30, 2025 at 8:15 AMGLEN RIDGE, NJ – The rollercoaster ride the 2025 season has been f...
Madison celebrates with James Fox after Fox's goal in the second quarter against Glen RidgePhoto Credit: Charlie DeLuca
Colin Byam rushes into the attacking zone in the first half against Glen RidgePhoto Credit: Charlie DeLuca
Madison celebrates with James Fox after Fox's goal in the second quarter against Glen RidgePhoto Credit: Charlie DeLuca
Previous
Next
By Charlie DeLuca
Published April 30, 2025 at 8:15 AM
GLEN RIDGE, NJ – The rollercoaster ride the 2025 season has been for Madison continued Tuesday afternoon as the Dodgers were defeated by Glen Ridge, 9-7.
After starting the season 0-3, Madison ripped off a three-game winning streak to recover quickly from a difficult start. Since getting back to the .500 mark the Dodgers have alternated wins and losses, sandwiching a victory over Millburn in between defeats to Pope John and the Ridgers.
As the scoreline suggests, the Ridgers and Dodgers played a back-and-forth game with the two teams trading momentum throughout the contest. The score was level at 1 after the opening period as no team led by multiple goals in the first half. Finn Dwyer scored the lone Madison goal in the first quarter and was joined by James Fox and Jake Rodin eet before the first half ended. Glen Ridge managed to score just as the first half buzzer sounded to tie the game at three headed into the break.
Sign Up for FREE Madison Newsletter
Get local news you can trust in your inbox.
At the start of the third quarter, Madison retook the lead courtesy of a Matt Lutz goal early in the frame. Glen Ridge tied the game for the fourth time and grabbed a 5-4 lead before the end of the period. Madison battled back once again, tying the game on Rodin’s second goal of the game at the 9:49 mark of the fourth quarter.
The seesawing persisted during the final minutes of regulation as Glen Ridge scored the next two goals to take their first multi-goal lead of the game. The Dodgers responded via goals by Lutz and Joaquin Soler to tie the game for the sixth time late in the fourth quarter. Glen Ridge would finally take a lead they would never relinquish, scoring the last two goals of the game and withstanding Madison’s last charge.
“It is frustrating,” Madison head coach John Schiavone said. “We were sloppy on offense, defensively I thought we played pretty well. We were not good enough on the clear. We ultimately lost because of those things. It was frustrating to compound those things with what was said and what was called.”
Part of the ups and downs Madison has gone through this season has been due to injuries that have kept the Dodgers from fielding a full lineup. Multiple Dodgers have been in and out of the lineup this season and Madison has not had a full complement of players since the first week of the season.”
“We have not had our full roster,” Schiavone noted. “Mountain Lakes, who we played really tight, we had a full roster and then against New Providence. Every other game we have had an injury or multiple.”
As the season continues for Madison with another busy week ahead and the county tournament kicking off next week, Schiavone is keeping the message simple to get the Dodgers to regroup after Tuesday’s loss.
“We just got to get back to basics and playing good lacrosse, the fundamentals,” Schiavone told TAPinto Madison. “Try and get back into things.”
Get your local news delivered to your inbox for FREE each day. Sign up to get all the news as it happens at www.TAPinto.net/enews and follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MadisonTAP/and on Twitter at @MadisonTAP to get all the news as it happens
Celebrating Something Special? Showcase Your Wedding, Christening, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Graduation, Reunion and MORE on TAPinto Milestones
Madison Area YMCA Awarded $10,000 Grant from The Summit Foundation
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/madison/madison-area-ymca-awarded-10-000-grant-summit-foundation
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Community Cornerto Expand Special Needs Programming Linsey Cozewith, Community Contributor|Updated Thu, Apr 24, 2025 at 2:28 pm ETThe Madison Area YMCA is proud to announce it has been awarded a $10,000 grant from The...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
to Expand Special Needs Programming
Linsey Cozewith, Community Contributor
|Updated Thu, Apr 24, 2025 at 2:28 pm ET
The Madison Area YMCA is proud to announce it has been awarded a $10,000 grant from The Summit Foundation to support its Special Needs Programming and Super Saturdays initiative, a vital recreational and social program designed for children with special needs, ages 4-12.
Jessica Gray, Senior Director of Youth Sports & Specialty Programs at the Madison Area YMCA, expressed her enthusiasm for the program and its impact on our community:
"Super Saturdays is more than just a program—it’s a place where children with special needs can feel included, supported, and celebrated. Seeing the joy on their faces as they connect with their volunteer Assistive Buddies and engage in activities is truly inspiring. This program not only enriches the lives of the children who participate but also strengthens our entire community by fostering understanding, empathy, and meaningful connections. I am honored to be part of something that makes such a lasting impact on both our participants and their families."
A Program That Makes an Impact
Super Saturdays is a unique program that matches children with special needs with high school and college-aged volunteer buddies for an hour of fun-filled activities one Saturday a month in the Madison Area YMCA’s program spaces, including the Gymnastics Center, Kids Central, and Gymnasium. The program provides:
Find out what's happening in Madisonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
With no similar programs currently available in the Madison/Chatham/Florham Park area, Super Saturdays plays a crucial role in fostering inclusion and connection. The program serves 20-30 families from across Morris County and runs monthly from September through June. With this grant, the Madison Area YMCA aims to offer the program more frequently, provide subsidized funding for families in need, and expand its reach to serve even more families in our community.
Commitment to Inclusion
In alignment with the Madison Area YMCA’s current five-year strategic plan, this grant supports the Y’s mission to foster an inclusive culture that welcomes individuals of all abilities. The long-term goal is to expand the program through enhanced outreach and marketing to reach even more families in need.
“With this funding, we are excited to expand our Super Saturdays program, ensuring more children and families in our community have access to meaningful social experiences in an inclusive and supportive environment,” said Madison Area YMCA Vice President, Advancement & Strategic Initiatives Ed Stoner.
For more information about the Madison Area YMCA’s Special Needs Programming and Super Saturdays, please contact Madison Area YMCA’s Senior Director, Youth Sports & Specialty Programs Jessica Gray at JGray@madisonymca.org or by calling (973)-822-YMCA x2267.
About the Madison Area YMCA
As a mission-driven charitable organization and community wellness center, the Madison Area YMCA is dedicated to nurturing the potential of our youth, providing a safe space for teens, improving the community’s health and well-being, and giving back by providing support to our neighbors. Learn more here: www.madisonareaymca.org.
About The Summit Foundation
The Summit Foundation fosters philanthropy and strengthens resources to address local needs and enhance lives in the Summit, NJ area. In the past 10 years, it has invested over $10 million in the community through grants, scholarships, donor-advised distributions, and special purpose funds. Learn more here: www.summitforever.org.
###
Mountain Lakes advances past Madison into MCT semifinals - Boys lacrosse recap
N.J. High School Sports Deskhttps://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2025/05/mountain-lakes-advances-past-madison-into-mct-semifinals-boys-lacrosse-recap.html
Lawson Fagan recorded four points with two goals and two assists as third-seeded Mountain Lakes defeated sixth-seeded Madison, 6-3, in the quarterfinal round of the Morris County Tournament in Mountain Lakes.Complete Box Score »Mountain Lakes (8-6) jumped out to an early lead, scoring three goals in the first quarter to take control of the game. The Lakers added another goal in the second quarter to take a 4-1 halftime lead.M...
Lawson Fagan recorded four points with two goals and two assists as third-seeded Mountain Lakes defeated sixth-seeded Madison, 6-3, in the quarterfinal round of the Morris County Tournament in Mountain Lakes.
Mountain Lakes (8-6) jumped out to an early lead, scoring three goals in the first quarter to take control of the game. The Lakers added another goal in the second quarter to take a 4-1 halftime lead.
Madison (6-7) attempted to mount a comeback with goals in the third and fourth quarters, but Mountain Lakes sealed the victory with two goals in the final period.
Holden Gillespie also had a strong performance for the Lakers with two goals and one assist for three points. Carson Fitch and Owen Higgins each added a goal, while Massimo Corvelli and Merric Martorana contributed one assist apiece.
In goal, Brendan Sentiwany made 11 saves for Mountain Lakes to secure the win.
For Madison, Matt Lutz led the offense with two goals, while Jake Rodin added one goal. Colin Byam won 8 of 13 face-offs (62%) and collected six ground balls. Cal Regan led Madison with seven ground balls, and Brody Witz added four.
Madison goalkeeper Aiden Manning recorded nine saves in the loss.
The Lakers, who also defeated Madison 8-6 in their season opener on March 26, will advance to face the winner of second-seeded Chatham and seventh-seeded Kinnelon in the semifinals.
The N.J. High School Sports newsletter is now appearing in mailboxes 5 days a week. Sign up now!
Follow us on social: Facebook | Instagram | X (formerly Twitter)
Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.
Disclaimer:

Service Areas
