DUI Lawyers in Bridgewater, 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 Bridgewater, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Bridgewater, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Bridgewater, 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 Bridgewater, 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 Bridgewater, 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 Van Veghten House near Bridgewater, 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 Bridgewater, 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 Somerset County Vocational Technical High School in Bridgewater, 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 Bridgewater, 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 Wallace House Old Dutch Parsonage State Historic Sites in Bridgewater, 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 Bridgewater, 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 Bridgewater, 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 Bridgewater, NJ
Somerset County 4-H Spring Carnival Returns For 2025
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/bridgewater/somerset-county-4-h-spring-carnival-returns-2025
The free carnival includes games, prizes, music, animals, magic, and more. Alexis Tarrazi, Patch StaffBRIDGEWATER, NJ — The Somerset County 4-H Spring Carnival is back for 2025.The free carnival will be held on Sunday, April 27, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Ted Blum 4-H Center, 310 Milltown Road, Bridgewater.Free admission includes games, prizes, music, animals, magic, and more. Food will be sold separat...
The free carnival includes games, prizes, music, animals, magic, and more.
Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff
BRIDGEWATER, NJ — The Somerset County 4-H Spring Carnival is back for 2025.
The free carnival will be held on Sunday, April 27, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Ted Blum 4-H Center, 310 Milltown Road, Bridgewater.
Free admission includes games, prizes, music, animals, magic, and more. Food will be sold separately.
New this year is a sensory-friendly hour from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., which requires pre-registration.
The carnival will be held rain or shine as the event will be held indoors and outdoors. The carnival benefits the Somerset County 4-H Youth Dev Program.
Find out what's happening in Bridgewaterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
For more information, visit 4histops.org/events/carnival-2025.
Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.
Boating in NJ – Safety Tips, Know Before You Go
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/bridgewater/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 v...
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.
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.
Find out what's happening in Bridgewaterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
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
The new Stone Tavern is finally open at the former Bridgewater Houlihan's
Jenna Intersimonehttps://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/entertainment/dining/2025/04/07/stone-tavern-open-former-houlihans-bridgewater/82975523007/
...
After over a year of delays, the Stone Tavern is finally open at the former Houlihan’s on Route 22 in Bridgewater.
"The wait is over!" the Stone Tavern, which opened on Sunday, posted on Facebook.
The restaurant at 1288 Route 22 East serves wood-fired steaks, seafood, burgers, pizza and Italian specialties in a 7,000-square-foot space with 150 seats and 14-foot ceilings. With bronze walls, it has an industrial, modern ambiance.
"Nothing about it will remind you of Houlihan’s when you step inside," Desiderio previously told MyCentralJersey.
The 35-seat bar, which has been doubled from its Houlihan’s size and moved to the right of the entrance, has 14 TVs.
“We really want this to be family-friendly and affordable, where you can feed a family for under $100 and also fit the needs of a sports bar with the NFL Sunday Ticket and baseball games,” Desiderio previously told MyCentralJersey.
Many of the partitioned walls have been removed for a more open feel, and the kitchen has been gutted then expanded. The bathrooms have also been renovated.
It follows the Stone Tavern's first location in Phillipsburg, which offers 30 beers on tap and events every night of the week, including live music, karaoke and Sunday brunch.
Popular dishes include the 24-ounce Cowboy ribeye steak; pizza topped with vodka sauce, mozzarella, mushrooms and prosciutto; gnocchi with vodka sauce and burrata; and wood-fired salmon.
Houlihan's closed in September 2022, and the Stone Tavern originally planned to open in December 2023, but permit approvals among other factors caused delays.
Desiderio plans to operate five Stone Tavern restaurants. An additional location in the Lehigh Valley is in the works, and he also hopes to open restaurants in Morris County and in or around Princeton.
Desiderio opened the Stone Tavern in Phillipsburg in 2022 after relocating it from Washington, also in Warren County, where it operated for nearly three years.
He has owned other restaurants over the years, including Desi’s Brick Oven Pizza in Hillsborough, and Desiderio's Market & Catering in Bedminster.
The Route 22 property has been the site of landmark Central Jersey restaurants for more than a half-century, including Jack O'Connor's and the Stockholm.
Go: 1288 Route 22 East, Bridgewater; 908-936-2417, stonetavernnj.com.
Contact: JIntersimone@MyCentralJersey.com
Jenna Intersimone has been a staff member at the USA TODAY NETWORK New Jersey since 2014, although she's a lifetime Jersey girl who considers herself an expert in everything from the Jersey Shore to the Garden State's buzzing downtowns. To get unlimited access to her stories about food, drink and fun, please subscribe or activate your digital account today. You can also follow her on Instagram at @seejennaeat and on Twitter at @JIntersimone.
This Celebrity Favorite Premium Athletic Apparel Store Is Coming To Somerset County
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/bridgewater/alo-yoga-open-1st-somerset-county-store-bridgewater-commons
Celebrities such as Taylor Swift, J-Lo, Hailey Bieber, Kendall and Kylie Jenner have been seen wearing Alo Yoga.Alexis Tarrazi, Patch StaffBRIDGEWATER, NJ — A celebrity favorite, Alo Yoga, is coming to the Somerset County area.The premium athletic apparel and accessories brand focused on wellness, mindfulness, and movement will open its fifth...
Celebrities such as Taylor Swift, J-Lo, Hailey Bieber, Kendall and Kylie Jenner have been seen wearing Alo Yoga.
Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff
BRIDGEWATER, NJ — A celebrity favorite, Alo Yoga, is coming to the Somerset County area.
The premium athletic apparel and accessories brand focused on wellness, mindfulness, and movement will open its fifth New Jersey store at Bridgewater Commons this fall.
Alo Yoga, which refers to its locations as "Sanctuaries," offers men’s and women’s apparel collections, shoes, exercise accessories, and a clean beauty line.
The 4,647-square-foot store, will be located on the Main Level next to Abercrombie & Fitch.
"Alo, which stands for 'air, land and ocean,' is a perfect store for our visitors, who have access to the best of all three in New Jersey," said Troy Fischer, Senior General Manager at Bridgewater Commons. "We’re delighted to welcome this brand to our significant casual wear component this year and are looking forward to other announcements in the near future."
Find out what's happening in Bridgewaterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
A-list celebrities such as Taylor Swift, J-Lo, Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Kylie Jenner have been seen wearing Alo Yoga.
The other Alo Yoga locations in New Jersey include the Garden State Plaza in Paramus, Mall at Short Hills, Palmer Square in Princeton, and Cherry Hill Mall.
For more information visit aloyoga.com.
Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.
7 Easter Brunch Spots In Bridgewater
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/bridgewater/7-easter-brunch-spots-bridgewater
BRIDGEWATER, NJ — If you want Easter brunch and don’t want to cook it, several Bridgewater restaurants will open Sunday, April 20, to take care of the preparation.Don’t waste time, though. Tables book quickly.Here are a few restaurants in and around Bridgewater from the online reservation service OpenTable:Several upscale chains with locations near Bridgewater have announced Easter brunch hours as well, including ...
BRIDGEWATER, NJ — If you want Easter brunch and don’t want to cook it, several Bridgewater restaurants will open Sunday, April 20, to take care of the preparation.
Don’t waste time, though. Tables book quickly.
Here are a few restaurants in and around Bridgewater from the online reservation service OpenTable:
Several upscale chains with locations near Bridgewater have announced Easter brunch hours as well, including Ruth’s Chris Steak House are open on Easter. It’s a good idea to call ahead for reservations.
Several casual restaurants are open for Easter as well, including Applebee’s, The Cheesecake Factory, Chili’s, Cracker Barrel, Panera Bread, Olive Garden, Perkins, and Texas Roadhouse.
As always, it’s a good idea to call ahead to make sure the chain locations near you are open.
Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.
Disclaimer:

Service Areas
