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DUI Lawyers in Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Berkeley, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, 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 Sather Gate near Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, 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 Fusion Academy Berkeley in Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, 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 Founders Rock in Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, NJ
Locals Show Support For First Responders Fighting Massive NJ Wildfire
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/berkeley-nj/support-surges-responders-amid-jones-road-wildfire-nj
LACEY, NJ — As firefighters continue to work around the clock to contain the 15,100-acre Jones Road Wildfire blazing through Lacey and Waretown, community members are making sure those first responders know how greatly appreciated their efforts are."Your dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts in the face of danger protected lives, homes, and our natural resources," the 9th District Delegation of Sen. Carmen Amato, Asm. Brian Rumpf and Asm. Greg Myrhe said. "We are incredibly grateful for your service an...
LACEY, NJ — As firefighters continue to work around the clock to contain the 15,100-acre Jones Road Wildfire blazing through Lacey and Waretown, community members are making sure those first responders know how greatly appreciated their efforts are.
"Your dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts in the face of danger protected lives, homes, and our natural resources," the 9th District Delegation of Sen. Carmen Amato, Asm. Brian Rumpf and Asm. Greg Myrhe said. "We are incredibly grateful for your service and proud to support you."
And dozens of local businesses are jumping in, offering discounted or free services to the first responders who need them.
It's a "small return on the debt we owe you," said Dignity Suds & Duds, a mobile team that helps the unhoused with laundry services. On Friday, they're offering free laundry services for first responders. Details can be found here.
On Thursday morning, NJ-based Caliber Construction picked up meals at Eat Clean Bro in Eatontown and dropped the food off at Forked River Volunteer Fire Company, Lanoka Harbor Volunteer Fire Company #1 and Barnegat Volunteer Fire Company. Caliber Construction purchased $1,000 worth of meals from Eat Clean Bro and they matched it, also donating $1,000 worth of meals.
Find out what's happening in Berkeleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The Barber's Edge in Forked River is offering free haircuts for first responders through April 30; just show department ID or station info.
JBJ Soul Kitchen in Toms River said that families impacted by the fire or first responders can come in for a free, three-course meal at their Hooper Avenue or Ocean County Library locations, both in Toms River.
"Whether you need support or simply a comforting space to gather, our doors are open," JBJ Soul Kitchen said.
CJ's, a diner in Forked River, is similarly offering a free meal to all firefighters and first responders both Thursday and Friday.
Is your local business helping out during this time? Let Patch know by emailing veronica.flesher@patch.com.
Additional reporting:
This $168K Grant Will Help Get Rid Of Litter In Berkeley
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/berkeley-nj/168k-grant-will-help-clean-berkeley
BERKELEY, NJ — Things will get tidier in Berkeley thanks to a $168,605 Clean Communities grant from the Murphy Administration, Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette announced.Municipalities and counties can use the grant funding to organize volunteer litter cleanups on public lands, purchase litter removal equipment, clear trash from stormwater systems, educate the public, remove graffiti, and enforce litter-related laws and ordinances, according to a news release.The amount received in Berkeley is amo...
BERKELEY, NJ — Things will get tidier in Berkeley thanks to a $168,605 Clean Communities grant from the Murphy Administration, Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette announced.
Municipalities and counties can use the grant funding to organize volunteer litter cleanups on public lands, purchase litter removal equipment, clear trash from stormwater systems, educate the public, remove graffiti, and enforce litter-related laws and ordinances, according to a news release.
The amount received in Berkeley is among the highest in the county.
The grant awards were announced in conjunction with an event hosted by the New Jersey Clean Communities Council (NJCCC) at the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway.
“These annual investments through NJ Clean Communities continue to help communities remove unsightly litter and beautify neighborhoods, educate people on the harms of littering, and inspire us to be stewards of the environment we share,” LaTourette said. “DEP is proud to join with NJCCC to announce the awards that ensure towns have the necessary tools to keep New Jersey clean.”
Find out what's happening in Berkeleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
In total, the DEP is awarding $24.1 million to eligible municipalities and $3 million to counties across the state. The grant awards are based on population, housing units and miles of municipally owned roadways, as prescribed by state law. They are funded by taxes collected from businesses that produce litter-generating products and penalties paid for litter-related violations. NJCCC, the nonprofit organization partnering with the DEP, oversees the reporting requirements for the program.
Litter comes from many sources, such as people who carelessly toss away their trash, overflowing and uncovered garbage cans, and construction sites. Litter is often dispersed by the wind and carried into stormwater collection systems where it can clog drains, causing flooding and harming wildlife by degrading the quality of the state’s surface waters.
Single Mom Loses 'Everything' After Fire Destroys Ocean Gate Home
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/berkeley-nj/single-mom-need-after-fire-rips-through-ocean-gate-home
A family is left with nothing after a fire tore through an Ocean Gate home on Easter Sunday, according to a fundraiser.OCEAN GATE, NJ — A fundraiser has been launched to support a family who lost everything when a fire tore through their home on Easter Sunday."On Easter Sunday, our dear friend Diana—a single mother of three—lost everything when a fire completely destroyed her home," a family friend ...
A family is left with nothing after a fire tore through an Ocean Gate home on Easter Sunday, according to a fundraiser.
OCEAN GATE, NJ — A fundraiser has been launched to support a family who lost everything when a fire tore through their home on Easter Sunday.
"On Easter Sunday, our dear friend Diana—a single mother of three—lost everything when a fire completely destroyed her home," a family friend wrote in a GoFundMe. "What was meant to be a joyful day quickly turned into a heartbreaking tragedy."
No one was home at the time, according to the fundraiser, but now the family has nothing. The GoFundMe also says that they didn't have renters' insurance, and all of their belongings are gone.
"They urgently need help to find a new place to live, replace essential items like clothing and beds, and begin to rebuild their lives," the fundraiser reads.
The Pine Beach Volunteer Fire Company also shared the fundraiser.
Find out what's happening in Berkeleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
"The structure fire in Ocean Gate today is the home of one of our junior members and his family, his mother and two siblings," the department wrote. "If you can, please consider a donation to help this family get back on their feet."
You can see the GoFundMe and donate here. An Amazon Wishlist was also created to help collect essentials. That list can be found here.
Enjoy These Easter Weekend Events In Ocean County
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/berkeley-nj/easter-weekend-events-enjoy-ocean-county
Looking for something to do this weekend? There's plenty of fun to hop to in Ocean County.Veronica Flesher, Patch StaffOCEAN COUNTY, NJ — Looking for something fun to do this weekend in Ocean County that's not all egg hunts and bunny brunches? There's plenty of fun to be had.Whether you want a nice market or an Easter parade, there's something for everyone. Check out these six Easter weekend events in Ocean Cou...
Looking for something to do this weekend? There's plenty of fun to hop to in Ocean County.
Veronica Flesher, Patch Staff
OCEAN COUNTY, NJ — Looking for something fun to do this weekend in Ocean County that's not all egg hunts and bunny brunches? There's plenty of fun to be had.
Whether you want a nice market or an Easter parade, there's something for everyone. Check out these six Easter weekend events in Ocean County.
Tuckerton Farmers Market
April 18, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Grab some fresh produce for Easter brunch at home or some locally made jewelry while enjoying live music. It's held outside the Union Market (120 W. Main St., Tuckerton) so go and grab a fresh cup of coffee while you're at it.
Find out what's happening in Berkeleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Moonlit Market
April 18, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
As the sun sets, the New Egypt Flea Market (933 Monmouth County Road, Cream Ridge) comes to life with shops packed with treasures to explore. Antiques, handmade goods and more are available from dozens of vendors.
Bunny Hop 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk
April 19, 9 a.m.
Join the Reynolds Family Foundation in Beach Haven for their second annual Bunny Hop to benefit local food banks and initiatives. Learn more here.
Spring Into Popcorn Park
April 19, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
A day of family fun is in store at the Popcorn Park Animal Refuge (1 Humane Way, Forked River). Do an egg hunt and get photos with the Easter bunny, learn from presentations, check out adoptable dogs and of course, explore all the zoo has to offer.
Easter Promenade
April 20, 1 p.m.
Stroll the Seaside Heights Boardwalk with cash prizes, face painting, photos with the Easter bunny and more. Registration starts at 10 a.m.
Easter Parade
April 20, 1 p.m.
Head to Jenkinson's Boardwalk for their parade with local businesses awarding prizes in each category. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m.
'Explosive Development' Could Fuel Strong Hurricane Season In NJ: See Forecast
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/berkeley-nj/explosive-development-could-fuel-hurricane-season-nj
NEW JERSEY — Warm water temperatures across most of the Atlantic Ocean have forecasters predicting an active hurricane season comparable to last year's, which was one of the deadliest and costliest on record.The Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1 and runs through Nov. 30. The peak of the season typically falls on Sept. 10."The water temperatures across most of the Atlantic are above average for this time of the year," ...
NEW JERSEY — Warm water temperatures across most of the Atlantic Ocean have forecasters predicting an active hurricane season comparable to last year's, which was one of the deadliest and costliest on record.
The Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1 and runs through Nov. 30. The peak of the season typically falls on Sept. 10.
"The water temperatures across most of the Atlantic are above average for this time of the year," AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said. "They're not quite as warm as what we saw last year and in 2023, but they're still well, well above average."
These warm temperatures will fuel "explosive development" of upcoming storms, AccuWeather forecasters said.
"A rapid intensification of storms will likely be a major story yet again this year as sea-surface temperatures and ocean heat content (OHC) across most of the basin are forecast to be well above average," DaSilva said.
Find out what's happening in Berkeleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
AccuWeather is forecasting 13 to 18 named storms, with three to six having direct impact on the U.S. That's the same amount they forecast last year.
RELATED: New 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Forecast: Here's What To Expect In NJ
They're predicting near to above the historical average for storms. DaSilva said the season could get off to a strong start due to the water conditions, followed by a lull, and possibly capping off the year with more storm activity.
While New Jersey isn't among the areas AccuWeather predicts storms and hurricanes to make landfall, forecasters warned that that's only part of a storm's lifecycle.
“We witnessed tragic examples of just how far inland the impacts from hurricanes and tropical storms can reach. Hurricane Beryl spun up more than 60 tornadoes along its nearly 1,200-mile-long path from the Texas coast to upstate New York,” DaSilva said. “Hurricane Helene brought catastrophic flash flooding and destructive winds to the mountains of western North Carolina, hundreds of miles inland from where the storm made landfall in Florida."
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