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DUI Lawyers in Hackettstown, 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 Hackettstown, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Hackettstown, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Hackettstown, 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 Hackettstown, 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 Hackettstown, 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 Hackettstown Historical Society near Hackettstown, 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 Hackettstown, 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 Strand Studios Learning Center for Music, Film and Acting in Hackettstown, 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 Hackettstown, 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 Rutherfurd Hall in Hackettstown, 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 Hackettstown, 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 Hackettstown, 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 Hackettstown, NJ
Hackettstown holds off late Lenape Valley rally - Softball recap
N.J. High School Sports Deskhttps://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2025/05/hackettstown-holds-off-late-lenape-valley-rally-softball-recap.html
Emma Olsen went 3-for-3 and Hackettstown held off a late rally to defeat Lenape Valley, 9-7, in Hackettstown.Complete Box Score »The Tigers (7-8) built a lead with consistent scoring throughout the game before withstanding the Patriots’ five-run seventh inning comeback attempt.Hackettstown took an early 1-0 lead in the first inning and extended it with three runs in the third and one in the fourth. After Lenape Valley (...
Emma Olsen went 3-for-3 and Hackettstown held off a late rally to defeat Lenape Valley, 9-7, in Hackettstown.
The Tigers (7-8) built a lead with consistent scoring throughout the game before withstanding the Patriots’ five-run seventh inning comeback attempt.
Hackettstown took an early 1-0 lead in the first inning and extended it with three runs in the third and one in the fourth. After Lenape Valley (4-12) scored twice in the fifth to cut the deficit to 5-2, the Tigers responded with three runs of their own in the bottom half of the inning and added an insurance run in the sixth.
Beth Kamaris drove in three runs for Hackettstown, going 2-for-3 with a double. Katie Kemper scored twice and stole two bases for the Tigers, who stole 11 bases as a team.
Gianna Santangelo reached base all four times she came to the plate, drawing three walks and hitting a double while scoring twice for Hackettstown.
Lexie Esposito led Lenape Valley’s offense, going 3-for-4 with a home run, four RBI and two runs scored.
Michaela Dennehy and Paige Henriksen each went 2-for-4 with an RBI for the Patriots. Callie Stevenson also contributed with a 2-for-3 performance, drawing a walk and stealing a base.
Henriksen pitched four innings for Lenape Valley, allowing five runs while striking out three and walking six. Dennehy pitched two innings, giving up four runs with one strikeout.
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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 Egg Hunt and Worship
Gail Wernerhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/hackettstown/calendar/event/20250420/d96ac81e-548c-4d9c-8dd1-231cc75d8e35/easter-egg-hunt-and-worship
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Hackettstown|Featured EventSun, Apr 20, 2025 at 9:30 AMGethsemane Lutheran Church, 409 E Baldwin St, Hackettstown, NJ, 07840Family Egg Hunt with crafts refreshments and featuring a Ewe and her baby lambs and bunnies courtesy of the Asbury Junior Dairy Clu...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Hackettstown|Featured Event
- Sun, Apr 20, 2025 at 9:30 AM
- Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 409 E Baldwin St, Hackettstown, NJ, 07840
Family Egg Hunt with crafts refreshments and featuring a Ewe and her baby lambs and bunnies courtesy of the Asbury Junior Dairy Club. Bring your family and use your cell phone to snap a memory picture to capture the Spirit filled JOY of Easter Sunday Worship at 10:30 AM. ALL are invited to attend.
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Hidden Treasures
Saturday, 10:00 amHackettstown, NJ
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Hidden Treasures
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"Go Green with Hope"
Saturday, 10:00 amHackettstown, NJ
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Hackettstown Coin and Currency Show
Sunday, 9:00 amHackettstown, NJ
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Hackettstown Community Blood Drive
Wednesday, 1:00 pmHackettstown, NJ
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We Have Heard Your Support Loud and Clear for 35 Years! The Arc of Warren Co. Radiothon 2025
Thursday, 9:00 amHackettstown, NJ
Hackettstown, N.J. wildfire 100% contained, officials say
Jesse Zangerhttps://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/hackettstown-nj-wildfire-contained/
The wildfire near Hackettstown in Warren County, N.J. has been 100% contained, authorities said Saturday.The fire burned about 100 acres and damaged two outbuildings, according to New Jersey Forest Fire Service. No evacuations were necessary.Nearby Route 46 has reopened, along with Tannery and Russling roads.Fire crews will remain on the scene for several days to ad...
The wildfire near Hackettstown in Warren County, N.J. has been 100% contained, authorities said Saturday.
The fire burned about 100 acres and damaged two outbuildings, according to New Jersey Forest Fire Service. No evacuations were necessary.
Nearby Route 46 has reopened, along with Tannery and Russling roads.
Fire crews will remain on the scene for several days to address additional areas of concern. The rounds of rain headed our way is expected to help. Smoke from the fire is anticipated to remain in the area until significant rain falls, possibly this afternoon and evening.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Fire crews dropped water from nearby fish hatchery ponds to battle the blaze.
Elsewhere in New Jersey, firefighters are continuing to battle the Jones Road Wildfire in Ocean County. At last update, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service said it was approximately 80% contained after burning 15,300 acres. Two teens face arson charges related to that fire.
Joseph Kling, 19, is due back in court Monday, when a judge is expected to decide whether he can be released from jail ahead of trial.
Jesse Zanger is the managing editor of CBSNewYork.com. Jesse has previously worked for the Fox News Channel and Spectrum News NY1. He covers regional news around the Tri-State Area, with a particular focus on breaking news and extreme weather.
Fire near Hackettstown, N.J., 75% contained after burning 100 acres, officials say
Alecia Reidhttps://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/wildfire-hackettstown-nj-warren-county/
Crews in New Jersey responded to a wildfire that broke out Friday near Hackettstown in Warren County.The wildfire along Route 46 is currently burning 100 acres and 75% contained, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service said Friday evening.One structure was being threatened and two were damaged, according to the forest fire service.Route 46 in Independence Township was closed in both directions because of the wildfire, the Al...
Crews in New Jersey responded to a wildfire that broke out Friday near Hackettstown in Warren County.
The wildfire along Route 46 is currently burning 100 acres and 75% contained, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service said Friday evening.
One structure was being threatened and two were damaged, according to the forest fire service.
Route 46 in Independence Township was closed in both directions because of the wildfire, the Allamuchy Fire Department said, but it has since reopened.
Crews conducted a direct fire attack, fighting it from the ground and above.
"I had the helicopters buzzing over my house back and forth, and they were scooping water out of the fish hatchery ponds to put the fire out so quickly," Hackettstown resident Lauren Anello said.
While no one had to be evacuated, the first came close to businesses like the Maria Bonita restaurant.
"Thank God we had those ponds of water to save this land and business properties like this," Anello said.
As they work every possible angle to out fires as quickly as possible, fire officials want to remind the public to keep their drones grounded.
"Give us airspace to do our thing so we don't have any issues," said Eric Weber, assistant division forest fire warden.
While the cause of this wildfire is under investigation, crews will work throughout the night to improve containment. Fire officials are hoping the incoming weather will help them get to 100% containment as quickly as possible.
Jones Road Wildfire still burning in Ocean County
It comes as firefighters continue battling the Jones Road Wildfire in Ocean County, which was approximately 80% contained as of Friday.
The fire has scorched over 15,000 acres since it started on April 22.
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service says some of the same crews have been working different fires across the state over the past few weeks, and they've been using resources from other parts of the state to help save crews from burnout.
"I believe we're up over 700-and-something fires, roughly, maybe 750 fires this year so far. This time last year, we were probably somewhere near 300-and-some fires," Forest Fire Service Chief Bill Donnelly said.
Two people were charged with arson in connection to the Jones Road Wildfire after allegedly starting a bonfire and failing to put it out. Joseph Kling, 19, appeared in court Friday for a detention hearing. A 17-year-old was also arrested and charged with setting the fire.
Mark Prussin is a digital producer at CBS New York. He covers breaking news, sports, politics and trending stories in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Mark joined the CBS New York team in 2019.
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