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DUI Lawyers in Cedar Grove, 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 Cedar Grove, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Cedar Grove, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Cedar Grove, 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 Cedar Grove, 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 Cedar Grove, 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 Cedar Bridge Tavern Historic Site near Cedar Grove, 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 Cedar Grove, 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 Cedar Grove High School in Cedar Grove, 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 Cedar Grove, 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 Former Site of the Erie Railroad Cedar Grove Station in Cedar Grove, 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 Cedar Grove, 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 Cedar Grove, 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 Cedar Grove, NJ
Cedar Grove defeats New Milford - Baseball recap
Nj.comhttps://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2025/04/cedar-grove-defeats-new-milford-baseball-recap.html
Matthew Norman pitched five strong innings and Chris Halbert went 3-for-4 as Cedar Grove defeated New Milford, 8-2, in Cedar Grove.The Panthers (9-4) scored twice in the first inning and broke the game open with a five-run fifth to secure their fourth victory in their last five games.Norman earned the win on the mound, allowing just one run on one hit over five innings while striking out two batters.Jack Velonas pitched the final two innings for Cedar Grove, giving up one run on five hits while striking out two.Ce...
Matthew Norman pitched five strong innings and Chris Halbert went 3-for-4 as Cedar Grove defeated New Milford, 8-2, in Cedar Grove.
The Panthers (9-4) scored twice in the first inning and broke the game open with a five-run fifth to secure their fourth victory in their last five games.
Norman earned the win on the mound, allowing just one run on one hit over five innings while striking out two batters.
Jack Velonas pitched the final two innings for Cedar Grove, giving up one run on five hits while striking out two.
Cedar Grove jumped out to an early lead with two runs in the first inning. The Panthers added another run in the fourth to make it 3-1 before the big fifth inning when they scored five times.
Nick Russo had a perfect day at the plate, going 2-for-2 with a double, an RBI, two runs scored, and two stolen bases. Ronnie Sheridan drove in two runs for Cedar Grove, while Matthew Kuilan, Matthew Norman, and John Reer each contributed an RBI.
For New Milford (7-6), John Brophy went 2-for-2 with a walk and an RBI, continuing his strong season. He now has 14 RBIs to lead the Knights. Liam Block added an RBI single for New Milford, which saw its two-game winning streak snapped.
The Panthers showcased their speed on the basepaths with six stolen bases, including two each from Russo and Luis Placido. Halbert, who now has a team-high 15 singles on the season, added a stolen base as well.
Cedar Grove’s defense was solid throughout, committing just one error, while New Milford played error-free baseball despite the loss.
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Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.
Easter In Verona-Cedar Grove: How To Boil Great Eggs, Weather Forecast
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/verona/easter-verona-cedar-grove-how-boil-great-eggs-weather-forecast
Here's how to make some "egg-ceptional" hard-boiled eggs for Easter. Also, check out the local weather forecast for Verona and Cedar Grove.Eric Kiefer, Patch StaffVERONA-CEDAR GROVE, NJ — The holiday weekend kicks off Friday for many people in Verona and Cedar Grove, with a favorite activity on the to-do list for Easter Sunday: egg dyeing.Need a reminder about how to hard-boil an egg? Chef Michele Wieser ...
Here's how to make some "egg-ceptional" hard-boiled eggs for Easter. Also, check out the local weather forecast for Verona and Cedar Grove.
Eric Kiefer, Patch Staff
VERONA-CEDAR GROVE, NJ — The holiday weekend kicks off Friday for many people in Verona and Cedar Grove, with a favorite activity on the to-do list for Easter Sunday: egg dyeing.
Need a reminder about how to hard-boil an egg? Chef Michele Wieser previously shared her preferred technique with Patch:
Voila! Egg-ceptional hard-boiled eggs!
There are similar methodologies available online, including the following instructions from Essex County native Martha Stewart, who says to place the eggs in a large saucepan and cover them with cool water by one inch.
"Slowly bring water to a boil over medium heat; when the water has reached a boil, cover and remove from heat," according to Martha Stewart.com. "Let sit 12 minutes."
Find out what's happening in Verona-Cedar Grovefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The eggs should then be transferred to a colander and placed under cool running water to stop the cooking. >> Read more from Martha Stewart about how to make hard-boiled eggs
LOCAL WEATHER FORECAST
Planning an outdoor activity over the holiday weekend? Here’s the local weather forecast for the Verona and Cedar Grove area, as per the National Weather Service:
Friday: Partly sunny, with a high near 67. Light south wind increasing to 9 to 14 mph in the morning.
Friday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 55. South wind around 11 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.
Saturday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 79.
Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 55.
Sunday: Partly sunny, with a high near 65.
Sunday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45.
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Cedar Grove Garden Center closes its doors after 75 years as a family business
Nicholas Katzbanhttps://www.northjersey.com/story/news/essex/verona-cedar-grove/2025/04/01/cedar-grove-garden-center-nj-closes-75-years/82747432007/
Click here for important updates to our privacy policy.VERONA-CEDAR GROVE2-minute readNorthJersey.comThe Cedar Grove Garden Center shuttered in March after serving its surrounding communities for 75 years as a family-owned business."Th...
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VERONA-CEDAR GROVE
2-minute read
NorthJersey.com
The Cedar Grove Garden Center shuttered in March after serving its surrounding communities for 75 years as a family-owned business.
"The Garden Center was the product of five generations of the Cox family in the nursery business," stated Stacey Cox Slowinski, sister to the business' final owner Ted Cox Jr., who made the difficult decision to shutter upon his decision to retire.
"It's a lot of hours being a farmer," Ted Jr. said on Tuesday, noting plants require a lot of devotion and care.
After 50 years in the business, he looks forward to doing more with his life: "I want to spend time with my family."
The Coxes' nascent beginnings with farming and lawncare date back to 1869, when the family's patriarch, James Thomas Cox, emigrated from England and soon took up work as a gardener at Paterson's Ryle Estate, a job he held for 40 years.
James' son, Philip Cox, opened a nursery at 39 Alexander Ave in Montclair in 1929. All the while, his brother, Theodore Francis Cox, farmed the plot of land in Cedar Grove that his son Theodore Fredricks Cox opened as a retail Garden Center in 1950.
"There weren't many garden centers back then, it was a different time," Ted Jr. said.
Over the next 75 years, the center remained under ownership of the Cox family and provided gardening products and landscaping services to residents and professionals across Essex County.
Upon the death of Theodore Fredricks Cox in 2010, his son, Ted Jr., took ownership of the business. Ted Jr. was an easy choice after operating the garden center in partnership with his father since 1975. The March 1 closure marked the end of Ted Jr.'s five-decade run in the business.
"I can't drive down a street in Montclair and not see a tree that I planted," Ted Jr. said.
Members of surrounding communities left an outpouring of well wishes to the Cox family on the Garden Center's Facebook page and expressed sadness that the business had to shutter.
Among them was Verona Park Conservancy President Charles Heyer, who said ― over the past 15 years ― his organization has purchased approximately 100 trees and shrubs from the center to replace dying flora or provide newly planted shade along the park's walking paths.
"It’s a shame," Heyer said during an interview. Now, the conservancy must find a new vendor, he added, although the Cox's service won't be easily replicated: "It was local and easy."
First Day Of Spring In Verona-Cedar Grove: Weekend Weather Forecast
Eric Kieferhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/verona/first-day-spring-verona-cedar-grove-weekend-weather-forecast
It's time to officially say goodbye to winter in Verona and Cedar Grove. Here's the weather forecast for the weekend.Patch StaffVERONA-CEDAR GROVE, NJ — It’s time to officially say goodbye to winter in Verona and Cedar Grove.The spring equinox will arrive at 5:01 a.m. on Thursday in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the first day of the season.What does that mean? According to FarmersAlmanac.com...
It's time to officially say goodbye to winter in Verona and Cedar Grove. Here's the weather forecast for the weekend.
Patch Staff
VERONA-CEDAR GROVE, NJ — It’s time to officially say goodbye to winter in Verona and Cedar Grove.
The spring equinox will arrive at 5:01 a.m. on Thursday in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the first day of the season.
What does that mean? According to FarmersAlmanac.com:
“Essentially, our hours of daylight—the period of time each day between sunrise and sunset—have been growing slightly longer each day since the winter solstice in December, which is the shortest day of the year (at least in terms of light). Even though we know that after December 21st, the days start getting steadily longer, we still see more darkness than light over the course of a day in those three months leading up to spring. The vernal equinox marks the turning point when daylight begins to win out over darkness.”
Planning to get outside and enjoy some of that sunshine this weekend? Here’s the local weather forecast for Verona and Cedar Grove, as per the National Weather Service:
Friday: Showers likely, mainly before 8am. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 48. Windy, with a northwest wind 23 to 26 mph, with gusts as high as 45 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.
Find out what's happening in Verona-Cedar Grovefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 35. Breezy.
Saturday: A 30 percent chance of showers after 2pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 58.
Saturday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 30.
Sunday: Sunny, with a high near 48.
Sunday Night: A chance of rain and snow after 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
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