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DUI Lawyers in Cranford, 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. Could you imagine having to miss out on family events and important milestones like a first date at the highest rated steakhouse in Cranford, NJ, because your license is suspended? 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 Cranford, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Cranford, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Cranford, 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 Cranford, 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. Whether you were accused of DUI while driving down the busiest highway in Cranford, NJ or DWI while operating a motor vehicle, our attorneys are ready to take action.
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 Cranford, NJ.
DUI Charges Involving Drugs in New Jersey
Being charged with DUI can happen if you're impaired by illegal substances, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. These situations tend to be complex, so having a skilled attorney is essential to effectively contest the charges.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
A DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, whether it's your first offense or if you've been charged before. The best way to avoid penalties such as jail time, fines, and license suspension is to contest your DWI charge with the assistance of a skilled attorney.
DUI Field Sobriety and BAC Tests in New Jersey
Authorities use several types of tests to ascertain whether a driver is under the influence. These tests consist of field sobriety tests, breath analysis, and blood examinations. However, the outcomes of these evaluations can sometimes be misleading. Edward G. Appel has the expertise to recognize and demonstrate the inaccuracies in these results to protect your freedom.
What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
Most people feel anxious and frightened after getting arrested for DWI because they are uncertain about what comes next. It almost feels like you're about to hike the tallest mountain near Cranford, 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 Cranford, 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 the largest university in Cranford, 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 Cranford, 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 the tourist attraction with the highest rating in Cranford, 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 Cranford, 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 Cranford, 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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Legally Blonde, The Musical, Coming to CDC Theatre in Cranford
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/cranford/legally-blonde-musical-coming-cdc-theatre-cranford
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Arts & EntertainmentFinal musical of the 106th season at CDC Theatre in Cranford, NJMaureen Monroe, Community ContributorCDC Theatre Presents Legally Blonde, The Musical, May 2-18H...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Final musical of the 106th season at CDC Theatre in Cranford, NJ
Maureen Monroe, Community Contributor
CDC Theatre Presents Legally Blonde, The Musical, May 2-18
Harvard's beloved blonde takes the stage at CDC Theatre in Cranford by pink storm in this fun, upbeat story of self-discovery!
A fabulously fun, award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde, the musical, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. With music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe & Nell Benjamin and book by Heather Hach, the show is based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture.
Action-packed and exploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances - this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal! Elle Woods appears to have it all. Her life is turned upside down when her boyfriend Warner dumps her so he can attend Harvard Law. Determined to get him back, Elle ingeniously charms her way into the prestigious law school. While there, she struggles with peers, professors and her ex. With the support of some new friends, though, Elle quickly realizes her potential and sets out to prove herself to the world.
Edgar Hidalgo directs the cast which includes Melissa Calicchio as Elle, Zach Mazouat as Emmet, Rachel Love as Paulette, Larry Brustofski as Callahan and Gabe Weiss as Warner. They are joined by a talented cast of supporting actors and a fabulous ensemble! With Musical Director Kaeden Oh, Choreographer Jaimie Bass, Stage Manager Dana Dispoto and Producer Elizabeth Howard on the production team, the show promises to be the crescendo of the 106th season at CDC Theatre.
Find out what's happening in Cranfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Performances on May 2-18, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and Sunday, May 11 and 18 at 2pm. For the best selection and prices, tickets can be ordered by visiting cdctheatre.org. This production is made possible by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.
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TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/cranford/sections/community-happenings/articles/what-s-happening-in-cranford-in-april-25f22fb0-fd00-48d8-bb9c-aa5d339fcd47
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CRANFORD, NJ - Every week, Bernie Wagenblast of Cranford Radio compiles what's happening in Cranford.
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John Patterson felt the call to the stage at a young age. Next week his most recent play will make its debut in an off-off Broadway theater in the hopes that it will be backed for a larger production. John is my guest on this week’s podcast and we talk not only about this play but his creative process and more.
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For more community happenings, sign up for the newsletter at www.TAPinto.net/enews and follow us on Facebook.
Beloved Irish pub’s closure helps create N.J.‘s newest St. Patrick’s Day parade
Rob Jenningshttps://www.nj.com/news/2025/03/beloved-irish-pubs-closure-helps-create-njs-newest-st-patricks-day-parade.html
It is no easy feat debuting a St. Patrick’s Day parade in a state that already is home to more than 30.Officials in one Union County town are giving it a try this weekend.The first Cranford St. Patrick’s Parade is Sunday, March 16, at 1 p.m. Marchers will start by th...
It is no easy feat debuting a St. Patrick’s Day parade in a state that already is home to more than 30.
Officials in one Union County town are giving it a try this weekend.
The first Cranford St. Patrick’s Parade is Sunday, March 16, at 1 p.m. Marchers will start by the Cranford Public Library, proceed along Walnut Avenue and finish at Springfield Avenue.
MORE: St. Patrick’s Day 2025: Your ultimate guide to N.J. parades
Banners heralding the parade’s debut are up in downtown Cranford, voted New Jersey’s best downtown by NJ.com readers in 2018 and 2019.
Permits for the parade were granted in late November, said Cranford Mayor Terrence Curran, chairman of the Cranford St. Patrick’s Parade Committee.
“This has been a very condensed planning process,” Curran said.
Of the more than 30 St. Patrick’s Day parades being held this month in New Jersey, Cranford’s event is the only new parade.
“It’s a lot of work,” Curran said.
The push for a parade evolved from the closure in 2021 of the Kilkenny House Restaurant & Pub. It was the only Irish pub in Cranford and losing it caused some reflection, Curran said.
The Shea-Jennings School of Irish Dance began doing outdoor performances in honor of St. Patrick, the primary patron saint of Ireland. Nearly 500 people showed up last year, the mayor said.
Curran, whose ancestors on both sides of his family were from Ireland, was impressed.
“I said to my wife, we should have a one-block parade,” Curran said.
“Then we got a couple of people involved. It went from a one-block parade to about a mile, with 30 different groups and dozens of vehicles involved,” Curran said.
Next up was perhaps the thorniest challenge: Picking a date. St. Patrick’s Day parades in New Jersey, including many with long histories, were scheduled on all five weekends in March.
Curren said the parade committee wanted to avoid conflicting with the Union County St. Patrick’s Day parade in nearby Union Township. First held in 1997, the Union County parade is taking place on Saturday.
“We were very mindful of the Union County parade. We didn’t want to be before them. We wanted to make sure we didn’t interfere,” Curran said.
By choosing March 16, Cranford landed on the busiest of New Jersey’s parade days.
St. Patrick’s Day parades are also being held Sunday in Bergenfield, Clinton, Freehold, Jersey City, Somerville, South Amboy and West Orange.
The United Irish Associations of West Hudson St. Patrick’s Day parade, which passes through Harrison, East Newark and Kearny, is also scheduled for Sunday.
The Cranford parade dinner was held on March 4. Attendees included the Kilkenny House Restaurant & Pub’s former owner, Barry O’Donovan, the grand marshal.
Curran has been a member of the Cranford Township Committee since 2022. He was named to a one-year term as mayor in January.
He said he is optimistic that Cranford’s parade will return in 2026 and beyond.
“It seems like we’ll be doing this every year,” Curran said.
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Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com.
Cranford Township Meeting Highlights Heritage, Finances, and Heated Pool Debate
Joe Murrayhttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/cranford/sections/government/articles/cranford-township-meeting-highlights-heritage-finances-and-heated-pool-debate
CRANFORD, NJ - The Cranford Township Committee’s latest meeting on March 11 was a mix of celebration, financial strategy, and lively public discussion over the management of the township’s public pools. While the meeting started on a positive note with proclamations recognizing various heritage months, tensions rose as residents voiced concerns over pool finances and transparency.Mayor Terrence Curran opened by acknowledging Women’s History Month, saying, “Throughout history, the vision and achievements of wome...
CRANFORD, NJ - The Cranford Township Committee’s latest meeting on March 11 was a mix of celebration, financial strategy, and lively public discussion over the management of the township’s public pools. While the meeting started on a positive note with proclamations recognizing various heritage months, tensions rose as residents voiced concerns over pool finances and transparency.
Mayor Terrence Curran opened by acknowledging Women’s History Month, saying, “Throughout history, the vision and achievements of women have strengthened our nation, our state, and our very own community.” He also proclaimed March as Irish Heritage Month, celebrating Irish immigrants who “came here for a better life” and highlighting the township’s first-ever St. Patrick’s Day parade. The parade’s grand marshal, Barry O'Donovan ,shared his excitement, saying, “It’s absolutely, we’d say, a cherry on top. But to me, I would say this is a shamrock on the top of my career.”
The conversation then turned to the township’s public pools, with Mayor Curran noting that registration was off to “a promising start” with increased membership and revenue compared to last year. However, during the public comment session, concerns were raised over the lack of transparency in pool management. One resident questioned the accessibility of Pool Advisory Committee meetings, stating, “They don’t announce the date of the meeting. They don’t have minutes. You don’t have any discussion documented.” She also suggested the township explore sponsorships as a way to generate additional funds, adding, “If you had 200 sponsorships at $250 each, you’re talking $50,000. I would never refuse $50,000 when we don’t have money for chairs.”
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Mayor Curran defended the township’s financial oversight, emphasizing, “The pool finances are not just looked at by one person. They go to an auditor, our township administrator, and our chief financial officer. Our CFO even sat with a CPA from the community to go through all the numbers, and they agreed they were accurate.”
Another resident who had previously reviewed pool finances clarified, “To be clear, those financials were based on audited financial statements from 2023 and back. What we’re doing going forward is not exactly the same outcome we discussed.” They urged township leaders to be adaptable, saying, “We really need the help from you guys, the board, and parks and recreation to make this happen. Please continue it. Please try to be flexible.”
The meeting also focused on the township’s capital budget and debt reduction strategy. Mayor Curran explained that this year, the township will take on nearly $1 million less in debt than it pays off. He emphasized that this approach allows Cranford to continue investing in infrastructure while strengthening its financial position. “We’re continuing to pay down our overall debt load, which will help not only with our financial status but also enable us to pave roads, invest in drainage projects, pedestrian improvements, and stormwater projects,” he said. He added that reducing debt levels now would “give us the benefit of lower interest rates in the future and a better credit score, making future borrowing cheaper.”
Deputy Mayor Paul Gallo echoed the importance of fiscal responsibility, supporting the mayor’s approach to managing debt while maintaining essential services. Commissioner Gina Black also highlighted how grant funding has lowered the township’s direct costs. She noted that while the capital budget was $5 million, grants had reduced Cranford’s actual expenditure to $1.6 million, allowing for infrastructure investments without placing additional strain on taxpayers.
The committee also announced an upcoming meeting on March 21st regarding senior property tax relief,
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