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DUI Lawyers in Belmar, 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 Belmar, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Belmar, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Belmar, 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 Belmar, 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 Belmar, 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 Twin Lights State Historic Site near Belmar, 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 Belmar, 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 Academy Charter High School in Belmar, 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 Belmar, 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 Spring Lake Belmar Gates in Belmar, 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 Belmar, 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 Belmar, 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 Belmar, NJ
Blaze rips through 4 homes in Jersey Shore town
Stephanie Loderhttps://www.nj.com/monmouth/2025/04/fire-damages-4-homes-on-jersey-shore.html
Firefighters battled a blaze early Sunday that destroyed several homes just a few blocks from the beach in Belmar.One resident was injured, but things could have been worse if a good Samaritan hadn’t rushed to alert the man about the fire in his home on 13th Avenue.By the time the resident tried to get out, intense flames blocked the front door, said Belmar Fire Chief Sean Pringle.“A passerby who was walking her dog called it (the fire) in and then banged on the window and door and the man ran outside through...
Firefighters battled a blaze early Sunday that destroyed several homes just a few blocks from the beach in Belmar.
One resident was injured, but things could have been worse if a good Samaritan hadn’t rushed to alert the man about the fire in his home on 13th Avenue.
By the time the resident tried to get out, intense flames blocked the front door, said Belmar Fire Chief Sean Pringle.
“A passerby who was walking her dog called it (the fire) in and then banged on the window and door and the man ran outside through the back,” he said.
The man suffered minor burns and was treated at the scene by emergency medical services, he said.
One firefighter suffered a burn to the neck and another suffered a neck injury, the chief said. Both were treated at the scene.
The fire was reported after 6:05 a.m. in the 300 block of 13th Avenue in the Jersey Shore town.
More than a dozen fire companies responded to the fire scene with more than 50 firefighters, Pringle said.
The chief said a gas meter on the side of one of the houses exploded during the fire.
Firefighters tried to enter one of the burning homes to check if anyone was inside. However, they were forced out by the intensity of heat and flames, he said.
“My main concern was to make sure that no one was inside any of these houses,” Pringle said. “We put some guys in to do a quick initial search of one house. They were up on the second floor, but the fire was so bad we had to pull them out.”
Pringle called a second alarm for more manpower when he arrived on the scene and saw the flames.
“Upon arrival we found a house heavily involved in flames,” Pringle said. “There was heavy fire coming out of the front of the first house, the porch area and the fire was already through the house.”
He said the fire had extended from one house to two other neighboring houses.
Three of the houses are total losses, with the fourth house sustaining exterior damage, the chief said.
Firefighters from Belmar Goodwill Hose and Belmar Hook and Ladder, Avon, Neptune City, Neptune Township, Wanamassa, Spring Lake Heights, Sea Girt, Manasquan, South Wall, Glendola, and West Belmar responded.
Fire companies remained on the scene until 10 a.m., Pringle said.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Monmouth County Fire Marshal and the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office.
Photos posted by All Hands Fire showed the homes fully engulfed in flames.
Drone footage captured by Belmar resident Bill Mckim showed numerous firefighters dousing a destroyed home with water, as well as the surrounding homes.
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Stephanie Loder may be reached at SLoder@njadvancemedia.com.
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One Of NJ’s Best Cheesesteak Spots Is Opening A New Location In Belmar, NJ
Buehlerhttps://943thepoint.com/ixp/392/p/cheessteaks-belmar-nj/
There are not many cheesesteak spots near the Jersey Shore that give Cheesesteak Louie's a run for their money, but one is opening up soon in Belmar that may blow your tastebuds off.Firstly, if you haven't tried Cheesesteak Louie's yet, they're located right off the Boulevard in Seaside Heights.Sign up for the 94.3 The Point NewsletterTheir cheesesteaks are hands down some of the best at the shore.As someone who grew up around ...
There are not many cheesesteak spots near the Jersey Shore that give Cheesesteak Louie's a run for their money, but one is opening up soon in Belmar that may blow your tastebuds off.
Firstly, if you haven't tried Cheesesteak Louie's yet, they're located right off the Boulevard in Seaside Heights.
Sign up for the 94.3 The Point Newsletter
Their cheesesteaks are hands down some of the best at the shore.
As someone who grew up around the Philadelphia area before moving to Jersey half a decade ago, I'd like to think I know my way around a good cheesesteak.
And when I learned that Cheessesteaks was getting ready to expand to the shore, I immediately got pumped up.
READ MORE: These Are The Strangest Things NJ Locals Have Found On The Beach
As I mentioned above, Cheesesteak Louie in Seaside Heights is regularly voted as one of the best places to grab a cheesesteak by the Shore.
I've also had really good cheesesteaks at Beachcomber, and G's Cheesesteak in Toms River is really good too.
But in general, I'd say a little place in Merchantville probably takes the cake for the best cheesesteaks in the state.
And they're getting ready to open a new location right here by the Jersey Shore, and I can't wait.
????Keep Reading To See Our Picks For The Best Cheesesteaks Across NJ????
If you're not familiar with Cheessteaks, the name is misspelled on purpose to catch your attention, and they may have the best steak sandwich in Jersey.
They're now getting ready to open a new location at the shore, in the former Sonny's Grille in the Belmar Plaza, according to APP
Cheessteaks keeps things nice and simple, which I appreciate; you have just a few options on the menu from the OG steak featuring Cooper Shark, American, or Whiz for the cheese, and you can get it with onions.
Just look at these things, they are insanely good-looking.
Cheessteaks new location in Belmar, which will be located at 821 Belmar Plaza, is planning for an opening date of May 20th, just in time for what will be a busy summer season.
If you're looking for something a little different, these are the best Cheesesteak spots in Jersey that will not disappoint!
The Best Cheesesteak Spots In New Jersey
Gallery Credit: Vin Ebenau
CheeseSteak Louie's
This is one of those new and relatively hidden gems in New Jersey. CheeseSteak Louie's in Seaside Heights opened up in 2021 and is absolutely amazing with some flat out phenomenal cheesesteaks. T.J. Perl, the owner, uses prime rib, cuts it up, grills it fresh and boom! -- right on the bread with cheese and peppers. It's an amazing process you can watch now and then go check it out for yourself.
(Photo: Hoagie Haven)
Hoagie Haven
They make absolutely delicious and mouth watering sandwiches over at Hoagie Haven in Princeton. I’m personally a big fan of their phat lady sandwich but I’ve had their cheesesteak and it’s just as good and great overall as well.
(Photo: Big Bob's Philly Cheesesteaks)
Big Bob's Philly Cheesesteaks
Talk about cheesesteak options. There’s a nice little variety of cheesesteaks over at Big Bob’s Philly Cheesesteaks in Englishtown. In addition, they also make their own special house sauce!
(Photo: Google Maps)
City Steaks
So much pride, so much passion, so many great cheesesteaks. It’s a must go to cheesesteak place in Burlington City. Check it out the next chance you get.
(Photo: Meatheadz Cheesesteaks)
Meatheadz Cheesesteaks
It’s a ribeye all the way kind of cheesesteak spot and that alone makes Meatheadz Cheesesteaks a must go to place. They have a great indoor setup and their cheesesteaks get such great reviews. So, head over to their spot in Lawrence Township.
(Photo: Dar's Steaks)
Dar's Steaks
So juicy, so much cheese, so much great steak just cut up and ready to enjoy! The next time you’re over in Haddon Township, check out the great cheesesteaks over at Dar’s Steaks, you’ll be glad you did.
(Photo: Johnny Longshots Steaks)
Johnny Longshots Steaks
It’s fabulous cheesesteaks made fresh for you to saveor the flavor and enjoy. Check out these incredible cheesesteaks over at Johnny Longshots Steaks in Hainesport-Lumberton.
(Photo: Famous Yellow Submarine)
Famous Yellow Submarine
We all live in a — never mind, we’ll leave that to the Fab Four. If you’re looking for a great cheesesteak tune though, head over to the Famous Yellow Submarine in Maple Shade.
(Photo: Joe's Steak Shop)
Joe's Steak Shop
Line ‘em up! Cheesesteak after cheesesteak after cheesesteak all ready to go for you and whoever else to enjoy at Joe’s Steak Shop in Phillipsburg. It’s a must go kind of place.
Philly Philly Steaks
Philly Philly Steaks
It’s just oozing with cheese and all out delicousness. If you’re craving a great cheesesteak, Philly Philly Steaks in Toms River is one of those must go to kind of places.
(Photo: Chick's Deli)
Chick's Deli
The next time you’re in the Cherry Hill area, head over to Chick’s Deli. They have some savory looking cheesesteaks that they put together.
(Photo: Fat Daddy's)
Fat Daddy's
Oh the cheese! And the steak! There’s some real good looking must have kind of cheesesteaks over at Fat Daddy’s Cheesesteaks in Lafayette.
Quick action helped save lives in destructive Belmar blaze
Jen Ursillohttps://nj1015.com/belmar-fire-13th-avenue/
BELMAR — A two-alarm fire that broke out in Belmar early Sunday morning left three people injured, including a resident and two firefighters, and three homes completely destroyed.More than 50 firefighters from more than a dozen nearby departments battled the blaze for nearly four hours. It reportedly started as a porch fire just after 6 a.m. at 308 13th Avenue and quickly spread to other houses, according to the ...
BELMAR — A two-alarm fire that broke out in Belmar early Sunday morning left three people injured, including a resident and two firefighters, and three homes completely destroyed.
More than 50 firefighters from more than a dozen nearby departments battled the blaze for nearly four hours. It reportedly started as a porch fire just after 6 a.m. at 308 13th Avenue and quickly spread to other houses, according to the Belmar Volunteer Hook and Ladder Fire Company.
Belmar Fire Chief Sean Pringle told NJ.com that things could have been a lot worse if it weren’t for the quick thinking of a good Samaritan.
He said a woman walking her dog called the fire in, then banged on the window and door to alert the resident inside.
The man was able to run outside the house through a back door because intense flames blocked the front door, Pringle told the media outlet. He suffered minor burns and was treated on the scene by EMS.
Two firefighters suffered minor neck injuries and were also treated at the scene, Pringle said.
The chief also said a gas meter on the side of one of the houses exploded, NJ.com reported.
Backup from neighboring fire departments, including Avon, Neptune City, Neptune Township, Wanamassa, Spring Lake Heights, Sea Girt, Manasquan, South Wall, Glendola, and West Belmar, was needed to help put out the massive blaze.
Four houses were affected by the flames. Three are total losses, and a fourth sustained exterior damage, Pringle said.
The cause remains under investigation by the Monmouth County Fire Marshal and the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office.
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