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DUI Lawyers in Deal, 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 Deal, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Deal, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Deal, 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 Deal, 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 Deal, 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 Deal Castle near Deal, 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 Deal, 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 Deal Elementary School in Deal, 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 Deal, 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 Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Deal, 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 Deal, 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 Deal, 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 Deal, NJ
Nurse Appreciation Week! Here's deals for NJ nurses: FIGS, Chick-fil-A, Dunkin', Crocs
Lori Comstockhttps://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/2025/05/06/national-nurses-week-2025-freebies-deals-discounts-on-food-scrubs-free-chick-fil-a-figs-dunkin/83479030007/
It's National Nurses Week 2025, and there's no better way to celebrate New Jersey's nearly 250,000 health care healers than with some nurse appreciation freebies discounts, deals and steals.From FIGS, the popular go-to retailer for scrubs, to comfy Crocs and the desperately needed caffeine jolt from Dunkin' or a burst of energy from a Chick-fil-A sandwich, businesses are showing their appreciation for nurses this week, fittingly falling around the birthday of Florence Nightingale.The first National Nurses Week wa...
It's National Nurses Week 2025, and there's no better way to celebrate New Jersey's nearly 250,000 health care healers than with some nurse appreciation freebies discounts, deals and steals.
From FIGS, the popular go-to retailer for scrubs, to comfy Crocs and the desperately needed caffeine jolt from Dunkin' or a burst of energy from a Chick-fil-A sandwich, businesses are showing their appreciation for nurses this week, fittingly falling around the birthday of Florence Nightingale.
The first National Nurses Week was observed in October 1954, marking the 100th anniversary of Nightingale's mission serving injured soldiers during the Crimean War. President Richard Nixon proclaimed a National Nurses Week in February 1974 and President Ronald Reagan proclaimed May 6 as National Nurses Day. In 1990, the American Nurses Association extended the celebration to permanently mark May 6-12 as Nurses Week.
Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system, requiring compassion, caring and dedication to help others in their most vulnerable state. Nurses Week allows the public to thank them, so here's a list of deals, discounts, giveaway and other ways they are being celebrated.
When is National Nurses Week 2025?
National Nurses Week is from Tuesday, May 6 through Monday, May 12.
When is National Nurses Day 2025?
National Nurses Day is today, Tuesday, May 6.
When is School Nurse Appreciation Day 2025?
School Nurse Appreciation Day is celebrated on Wednesday, May 7.
When is National Student Nurse Day 2025?
National Student Nurse Day is Thursday, May 8.
National Nurses Week, Day 2025: Freebies, deals, discounts
Today, May 6, all nurses can grab a free Original or Spicy Chicken sandwich from participating Chick-fil-A locations. Make sure to check with your nearest New Jersey location to see if they are participating.
Chipotle is randomly selecting 100,000 healthcare workers to gift free burritos (via e-gift cards). All you have to do is sign up no later than May 12 using your email and verification through ID.me. Winners will be notified starting the week of May 13.
In year's past, Dunkin' often offer free medium hot/iced coffee at select Dunkin' locations. While it is unclear what locations are taking part, be sure to check in with your nearest New Jersey location (there are over 860 in the Garden State!)
Nurses typically get a free Classic cinnamon roll or Minibon roll, at select locations during Nurses Week. Check in with your nearest New Jersey location.
Buffalo Wild Wings if offering 20% off orders during National Nurses Week. The deal is available for dine-in and takeout orders when nurses show their ID. Find a New Jersey location here.
Outback Steakhouse offers nurses 10% off their entire check with valid medical ID.
Insomnia Cookies is offering nurses (and teachers) a free classic cookie (no purchase needed) from May 6 through May 12 when you show proof of employment in-store. Find a New Jersey location here.
Select location are offering a free appetizer with the purchase of a entrée for teachers and nurses through May 10. Check your nearest location in New Jersey.
Through Wednesday, May 7, the popular scrub shop, FIGS, is celebrating nurses by offering 20% off everything, and 25% off scrub sets on the website and via their FIGS app. No promo code necessary.
Crocs, the go-to shoe for nurses constantly on their feet, is offering 25% discount on full-priced items for healthcare workers as part of Nurses Week. Some exclusions apply. Check out their website for more information or find a Crocs near you here.
Nurses can receive an extra 10% off their purchase at Sketchers retail stores during the month of May with proof of a valid ID. Nurses who round-up their purchases in-store will also support the American Nurses Foundation, and will receive a coupon for $10 off a future purchase of $100 or more. Find a New Jersey location here.
The New York Yankees is recognizing nurses this week during their games vs. the San Diego Padres, concluding on Tuesday, May 6 and Wednesday, May 7. Tickets, which start at $52 using the code "Nurse," include a NYY Healthcare Appreciation tumbler or scrubs and a $15 food and beverage voucher. Ten nurses and their guests will also be chosen each night to win a group photo on the field.
Who is Florence Nightingale?
Florence Nightingale was born on May 12, 1820 and was a statistician, social reformer and best known as the founder of modern nursing. She earned the nickname "Lady of the Lamp" after she spent all hours of the nights in military hospitals caring for British and allied soldiers during the Crimean War. She later opened the first professional nursing school, St. Thomas' Hospital in London, in 1860.
What is the Florence Nightingale pledge?
The Florence Nightingale Pledge, named in honor of Florence Nightingale, is a modified version of the Hippocratic Oath composed in 1893 by Lystra Gretter. The pledge is often recited at graduation/pinning ceremonies for nurses.
Lori Comstock is a New Jersey-based journalist with the Mid-Atlantic Connect Team.
National Nurses Week 2025: How to get deals, freebies from Applebee’s, Outback and more
Katherine Rodriguezhttps://www.nj.com/healthfit/2025/05/national-nurses-week-2025-how-to-get-deals-freebies-from-applebees-cinnabon-outback-and-more.html
National Nurses Week 2025 is May 6-12.The origins of National Nurses Week began in the early 1950s, when a week in October honored nurses around the same time of the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s mission to Crimea, ...
National Nurses Week 2025 is May 6-12.
The origins of National Nurses Week began in the early 1950s, when a week in October honored nurses around the same time of the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s mission to Crimea, according to the American Nurses Association.
Eventually in 1974, a proclamation from the Nixon White House designated a week dedicated to nurses known as National Nurses Week.
Fast forward to the present, and you’ll find that many businesses use the celebration to honor nurses for their hard work caring for patients by offering freebies and deals.
Most places usually require nurses to show a valid ID to participate, so it is best to check with your local store for National Nurses Week promotions.
Here is what you need to know about the restaurants and eateries offering freebies and deals all week.
National Nurses Week deals and freebies 2025
Applebee’s: Nurses get a free appetizer up to $12 with any entrée purchase when they show their work ID. The deal is valid at participating locations through May 10.
Buffalo Wild Wings: Nurses get 20% off orders during National Nurses Week. This deal is available for dine-in and takeout orders when nurses show their work ID.
Chipotle: Chipotle is celebrating the healthcare community by giving away more than $1 million in free Chipotle to 100,000 healthcare workers. Healthcare workers can sign up here for a chance to win a free burrito e-card.
Dunkin: Get a free medium hot or iced coffee on May 6.
Insomnia Cookies: Nurses can get a free Classic cookie from May 6-12 when they shop in-store. No purchase is necessary for this deal, but nurses must show valid ID.
Outback Steakhouse: Nurses can get 10% off their checks year-round with the Heroes Discount.
Potbelly Sandwich Shop: From May 5 through May 11, nurses can get a free cookie or regular-sized soft drink when they buy an entrée. You must show ID to redeem the free cookie or drink.
Tim Horton’s: If you’re a Tim Horton’s rewards member, you can buy one donut and get one free or buy 12 donuts and get six free.
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Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
Take Advantage of This Deal At Your NJ Starbucks
Giannahttps://wpst.com/starbucks-free-cold-foam/
This is it!If you needed another excuse to grab your favorite Starbucks drink this week.I love waking up in the morning, getting ready, and treating myself to my morning coffee.My go-to order right now is a blonde vanilla latte with almond milk, and then I top it off with Strawberry Cold Foam.Read More: New Jersey Homeowners: This Is How Most Burgla...
This is it!
If you needed another excuse to grab your favorite Starbucks drink this week.
I love waking up in the morning, getting ready, and treating myself to my morning coffee.
My go-to order right now is a blonde vanilla latte with almond milk, and then I top it off with Strawberry Cold Foam.Read More: New Jersey Homeowners: This Is How Most Burglars Are Breaking In
It tastes like one of those Good Humor Strawberry Shortcake bars that you would get on a hot summer day from an ice cream truck. It’s seriously one of the best coffees I’ve tried at Starbucks.
The best part is, you can try that drink out for yourself for cheaper than normal for the rest of this week.
Right now, Starbucks is offering a sweet little freebie that’s perfect for anyone who loves to put a little extra something on top of their coffee.
If you needed another excuse to grab your favorite Starbucks drink this week, this is it.
Right now, Starbucks is offering a sweet little freebie. That’s perfect for anyone who loves to put a little extra something on top of their coffee.
Now through May 11, Starbucks rewards members can enjoy free cold foam on any drink they order now until May 11.
Normally, if you were to add cold foam to a drink, it’s a little over $1 extra, which doesn’t seem like much, but is a lot! When you’re paying $6 for a drink and then adding another $1 for cold foam, it can almost feel like it’s not worth it.
Now, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without the stress. You can get it at any New Jersey Starbucks over the next few days, so what are you waiting for? Free cold foam for everyone!
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I hope you never even considered eating these animals, but if you have, you can't.
11 Dog-Friendly Beaches in New Jersey
The warm weather is officially here and it's time to bring your pets down to the Jersey Shore!
Stanley dropped a whopping 40% discount for National Nurses Week: Here’s how to get the deal
Dawn Magyarhttps://www.nj.com/shopping-deals/2025/05/stanley-dropped-a-whopping-40-discount-for-national-nurses-week-heres-how-to-get-the-deal.html
Stanley is saying a “big thank you” to nurses this week with the best deal it has ever offered on its drinkware — and it’s a big one.For Nati...
Stanley is saying a “big thank you” to nurses this week with the best deal it has ever offered on its drinkware — and it’s a big one.
For National Nurses Week, Stanley is offering nurses, hospital employees, medical providers and first responders a 40% discount on select drinkware through May 12.
Stanley Quencher Tumbler 30 oz
Price: $21, instead of $35 (includes 40% discount for nurses, hospital employees, medical providers and first responders for National Nurses Week)
To get the limited-time deal, you’ll need to verify your medical status with ID.me and log into your Stanley account. Here, a one-time verification code will be applied to your purchase at checkout.
While Stanley has bumped this discount to a giant 40% off just for National Nurses Week, it also offers a special discount all year round to healthcare professionals. This offer also applies to students, teachers and military personnel who verify with ID.me.
For this deal, you can pick from a variety of Stanley drinkware to use your discount on, including several of its famous Quencher Tumblers in fun colors like Almond Rose, Black Chroma, Dhalia Shimmer, Punch Shimmer and more.
Plus, Stanley is offering free shipping on online orders over $75.
National Nurses Week deals from Stanley
Here’s a roundup of some of the Stanley drinkware you can snag for a 40% discount during National Nurses Week.
Shop for even more Stanley drinkware and gear here.
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Dawn Magyar can be reached at dmagyar@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips/.
NJ Transit, biggest union reach tentative deal. But engineer strike still looms.
Larry Higgshttps://www.nj.com/news/2025/05/nj-transit-and-its-largest-union-reach-a-tentative-agreement-on-a-new-contract.html
While a potential strike with locomotive engineers could take place in less than a week, NJ Transit reached a tentative agreement with its largest union, representing 5,500 bus drivers and mechanics.The Amalgamated Transit Union and NJ Transit issued a joint statement Wednesday announcing the tentative pact.“Contract terms are within the established pattern and refl...
While a potential strike with locomotive engineers could take place in less than a week, NJ Transit reached a tentative agreement with its largest union, representing 5,500 bus drivers and mechanics.
The Amalgamated Transit Union and NJ Transit issued a joint statement Wednesday announcing the tentative pact.
“Contract terms are within the established pattern and reflect our mutual and ongoing commitment to fairness, efficiency, affordability, and financial sustainability for the hundreds of thousands of customers who depend on NJ Transit bus service every day,” the statement read.
Roughly two-thirds of NJ Transit’s passengers ride intercity and local buses.
Specific details of the agreement were not revealed “pending ATU leadership’s notification of its members,” according to the statement.
If ratified by union members, it would replace the current contract that expired in 2024, but remained in effect.
That pact provided a total across the board wage increase of 9% over two years. That breaks down to a 2% increase on July 3, 2021; 2% on Jan. 1, 2022; 2.5% on July 2, 2022; and, 2.5% on July 1, 2023, according to the contract.
“Together, we have achieved a contract that delivers much-needed improvements, ensuring that our transit professionals are recognized and rewarded for their hard work and commitment to serving the public,” said Ray Greaves, ATU International vice president . “As we move forward, we are optimistic that this agreement will pave the way for a stronger future for our members and the communities they serve.”
The tentative contract which covers from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028, now goes to union members to ratify. A date for that vote hasn’t been set.
“I appreciate the professionalism and reasonableness of the ATU leadership throughout this process,” said Kris Kolluri, NJ Transit president and CEO. “This tentative agreement reflects a shared commitment to our more than 5,500 dedicated employees represented by the ATU, our valued riders, and New Jersey taxpayers — and I’m grateful for the collaborative spirit that made it possible.”
In August 2021, over 90% of union members who cast a ballot voted yes to accept the agreement.
The tentative contract continues the trend of “pattern bargaining” that the agency has used to reach agreements with 14 rail unions, a spokesperson said.
The only rail union that rejected pattern bargaining is the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, which is nearing the end of a 30-day cooling off period. A rail strike or lock-out could happen as early as 12:01 a.m. on May 16.
Members of the BLE&T union rejected a tentative contract that was announced in March and was not ratified by members in April.
Salaries are the major point of disagreement as NJ Transit officials rejected a union counter offer on May 5. Both sides have traded barbs about the levels of salary demands, but said they remain open to talks.
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Larry Higgs may be reached at lhiggs@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @CommutingLarry
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