DUI Lawyer Hazlet, NJ
Get Your DUI Case Dismissed with Help from Attorney Edward G. Appel
36 +

Years of Combined Experience

15,000

Cases Successfully Solved

Millions

of dollars saved for our clients

DUI Lawyers in Hazlet, 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.

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

 DUI Defense Hazlet, NJ

The DUI Lawyers in Hazlet, 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 Attorney Hazlet, NJ
 Criminal Defense Lawyer Hazlet, NJ

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 Hazlet, NJ.

 Legal Representation Hazlet, NJ
 DUI Case Help Hazlet, 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 Defense Lawyer South Jersey Hazlet, NJ
 DUI Consultation Hazlet, NJ

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 Historic Longstreet Farm near Hazlet, 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.

DUI Lawyer Hazlet, NJ

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 Hazlet, 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.

 DUI Defense Hazlet, NJ

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.

 DUI Attorney Hazlet, NJ

Here's What to Expect After Your 2nd DUI Charge in New Jersey

It doesn't take a graduate from Raritan High School in Hazlet, 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.

 Criminal Defense Lawyer Hazlet, NJ

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 Hazlet, 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 Proprietary House in Hazlet, 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.

 Legal Representation Hazlet, NJ

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.

 DUI Case Help Hazlet, NJ
Failing

1. Failing to Hire Reputable DUI Attorneys in Hazlet, 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.

 DUI Defense Lawyer South Jersey Hazlet, NJ
Downplaying

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.

 DUI Consultation Hazlet, NJ
Pleading Guilty

3. Giving Up and Pleading Guilty

Anyone can choose to plead guilty. However, if you decide to challenge your DUI charge, you have a chance of winning. By pleading guilty, you forfeit that opportunity. There are many scientific and constitutional challenges that can lead to the dismissal of your DUI case. When you plead guilty, you give up your right to contest these issues and force the State to prove its case against you. It's important to check that your lawyer is well-equipped to spot the issues that could lead to a successful defense in your case

Get Help Now!

Get in touch with us now! or Call us today to get a free quote!

DUI Lawyer Hazlet, NJ
 DUI Defense Hazlet, NJ

DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Hazlet, NJ

Since 1988, Edward G. Appel, Esq. and his team of criminal defense attorneys have fought hard for the rights of clients just like you - men and women who have been charged with a DUI in New Jersey. Because the truth is that a DUI conviction can change your life in an instant.

Opportunities that you once had may be lost, sometimes forever. Having an experienced and dedicated defense attorney by your side can mean the difference between incarceration and dismissed charges or a diminished sentence. It's critical that you exercise your right to hire an attorney who can protect your freedom and defend you in court. Call the offices of Edward G. Appel to learn more about DUI law in New Jersey and to schedule your initial consultation today.

Hear What Our Clients Have to Say

What Our Customers Are Saying!

Send a Message

Latest News in Hazlet, NJ

Onyx Equities Sells New Jersey Shopping Center

Onyx Equities has sold Hazlet Town Center, a grocery-anchored, 190,000-square-foot shopping center in Hazlet, N.J. LJL Realty bought the asset for $44 million in an 1031 exchange. CBRE’s National Retail Partners represented the seller.Onyx had purchased the retail center back in 2016 for $26.2 million, according to CommercialEdge data. Following the acquisition, the firm jump-started a five-year renovation plan that involved exterior upgrades as well as parking lot improvements as the property’s occupancy continued to rise...

Onyx Equities has sold Hazlet Town Center, a grocery-anchored, 190,000-square-foot shopping center in Hazlet, N.J. LJL Realty bought the asset for $44 million in an 1031 exchange. CBRE’s National Retail Partners represented the seller.

Onyx had purchased the retail center back in 2016 for $26.2 million, according to CommercialEdge data. Following the acquisition, the firm jump-started a five-year renovation plan that involved exterior upgrades as well as parking lot improvements as the property’s occupancy continued to rise.

READ ALSO: Discount Retailers Drive Tenant Expansion

Completed in 1970 at 310 Route 35, Hazlet Town Center was 90 percent leased at the time of the current sale. Anchor tenants include ALDI, Burlington and Urban Air. The latter’s adventure park opened at the end of 2023 after almost a year of setbacks, taking over 40,000 square feet.

The roster also includes Planet Fitness, Panera Bread and Subway, among others. The property’s Wawa outparcel was not part of the current transaction.

The shopping center occupies some 20 acres at the intersection of Route 35 and Bethany Road, where the daily car traffic reaches roughly 43,000 vehicles. The location is near the Hazlet train station and just under 40 miles from downtown New York City.

CBRE’s Jeffrey Dunne, David Gavin and Travis Langer negotiated on behalf of the seller.

New Jersey retail sector, ready for a comeback

The New Jersey retail market sees high demand for space as new construction is scarce and availability is shrinking. According to Real Estate NJ‘s 2025 Market Forecast, the sector seems ready for a comeback, with sales up 6 percent on a year-over-year basis.

Meanwhile, property redevelopment is expected to build on last year’s momentum, the forecast shows, transforming established assets into next-generation spaces. This retail trend focuses on creating a carefully selected tenant mix by blending big names and independent players with day-to-day service providers.

Baseball: Raritan Defeats Red Bank, 4-1

Baseball: Raritan Defeats Red Bank, 4-1Photo Credit: Raritan H.S. Athletics By TAPinto Hazlet & Keyport StaffPublished April 10, 2025 at 12:48 AMHAZLET, NJ – Raritan won its third baseball game in a row, 4-1, over Red Bank on Wednesday.Raritan (3-1) scored two runs in the first inning and took a 4-0 lead with a pair of runs in the bottom of the second.Will Meehan pitched five shutout innings for the Rockets, striking out nine, walking six and throwing 90 pitches. Sean Burnett came...

Baseball: Raritan Defeats Red Bank, 4-1Photo Credit: Raritan H.S. Athletics

By TAPinto Hazlet & Keyport Staff

Published April 10, 2025 at 12:48 AM

HAZLET, NJ – Raritan won its third baseball game in a row, 4-1, over Red Bank on Wednesday.

Raritan (3-1) scored two runs in the first inning and took a 4-0 lead with a pair of runs in the bottom of the second.

Will Meehan pitched five shutout innings for the Rockets, striking out nine, walking six and throwing 90 pitches. Sean Burnett came on to pitch two innings, allowing a run on two hits.

Jobby Dekis hit a two-run home run, Chris Jefferson knocked a two-run double and Meehan and Matt Melendez each had two hits for Raritan.

READ MORE LOCAL NEWS HERE.

Thank you for reading TAPinto Hazlet and Keyport, covering the Bayshore and more. Don't miss your daily news, sign up free today here. Have a news tip or story idea, text Jeanne Wall at 732.492.2500. This publication has thousands of local readers every day and is a fantastic way to provide unique marketing opportunities for your business or organization. Text Jeanne Wall 732.492.2500 for more information or email jwall@tapinto.net Interested in franchising TAPinto in Monmouth County? Text or email Jeanne Wall. Have a great day!

Jeanne Wall, Owner/Publisher of TAPinto Holmdel and Colts Neck, TAPinto Middletown,TAPinto Hazlet and Keyport. Delivering Daily Community News for Monmouth County, while providing unique Marketing, Branding, PR and Community Relations for local businesses and organizations.

New Restaurant Replacing The Vacant TGI Fridays Building In Monmouth County

With several locations already in New Jersey, this popular wing spot will open a new location in Monmouth County.If you've been wondering what's replacing the old TGI Fridays at Hazlet Town Center, there's some exciting news to share.Get our free mobile appYou hate to see a building just sit empty, so it's great to hear that this popular wing spot is coming to the area to fill that space.The new location is expected to open in early 2026.Read More: ...

With several locations already in New Jersey, this popular wing spot will open a new location in Monmouth County.

If you've been wondering what's replacing the old TGI Fridays at Hazlet Town Center, there's some exciting news to share.

Get our free mobile app

You hate to see a building just sit empty, so it's great to hear that this popular wing spot is coming to the area to fill that space.

The new location is expected to open in early 2026.

Read More: This New Hot Dog Spot Is A Must-Visit At The Jersey Shore This Summer

The Asbury Park Press reports that Buffalo Wild Wings will take over the empty TGI Fridays restaurant at Hazlet Town Center on Route 35 and Monmouth County's Bayshore.

The restaurant, known for its delicious wings, burgers, sandwiches, and wraps - plus great beer options - is in the process of getting a liquor license.

It's not opening until early 2026, but here's a list of locations open now!

770 Lighthouse Drive Suite D-A - Barnegat

144 Route 31, Suite 100 - Flemington

1701 West Edgar Road - Linden

1598 Nixon Dr. - Moorestown

487 Market Street Suite 10 - Saddle Brook

1120 White Horse Rd Unit 100 A - Voorhees

2770 Hooper Avenue - Brick

1353 Ringwood Ave Suite B - Haskell

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Buffalo Wild Wings (@bwwings)

650 Route 72 West Unit 2 - Manahawkin

2241 Route 1 South - North Brunswick

470 Harmon Meadow Blvd. Harmon Meadow - Secaucus

1599 US Highway 22 West - Watchung

970 US-22 - Bridgewater

625 US 1 South - Iselin

167 US 9 South - Marlboro

627 Cross Keys Rd. Highland Crossing - Sicklerville

1400 Willowbrook Mall, Willowbrook Mall - Wayne

180 Route 35 South Suite 2004A, Monmouth Mall - Eatontown

2825 John F Kennedy Boulevard - Jersey City

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Buffalo Wild Wings (@bwwings)

4311 Black Horse Pike, Hamilton Mall - Mays Landing

1540 US Highway 46 W - Parsippany

4 North Village Blvd, Suite A - Sparta

299 North Route 73 - West Berlin

21-08 Maple Ave - Fair Lawn

190 Passaic Ave, Suite 104 - Kearny

2164 N 2nd St., Union Lake Crossing - Millville

343 Mount Hope Avenue - Rockaway

2 Rt. 37 West, Unit C-4 Crossroads Center of Toms River - Toms River

3465 US-1 - West Windsor

Buffalo Wild Wings replacing TGI Fridays at this Monmouth shopping center

HAZLET -- Buffalo Wild Wings will fill the vacant TGI Fridays restaurant at Hazlet Town Center, bringing the chicken wing restaurant chain to Route 35 and Monmouth County's Bayshore.Buffalo Wild Wings has signed a lease for the 7,400-square-foot restaurant, said Jack LItman, president of The Munson Restaurant Group, a franchisee. The company owns and operates Buffalo Wild Wings sports bars in Toms River, Brick, Bridgewater, North Brunswick, West Windsor and Flemington.Now the company is in the process of buying t...

HAZLET -- Buffalo Wild Wings will fill the vacant TGI Fridays restaurant at Hazlet Town Center, bringing the chicken wing restaurant chain to Route 35 and Monmouth County's Bayshore.

Buffalo Wild Wings has signed a lease for the 7,400-square-foot restaurant, said Jack LItman, president of The Munson Restaurant Group, a franchisee. The company owns and operates Buffalo Wild Wings sports bars in Toms River, Brick, Bridgewater, North Brunswick, West Windsor and Flemington.

Now the company is in the process of buying the old restaurant's liquor license and will file its proposed plans with Hazlet's land use board.

TGI Fridays, which has floundered for the last several years, has closed most of its restaurants at the Jersey Shore, most recently shuttering locations in Hazlet and Toms River. Its restaurant in Stafford remains open.

Litman said the restaurant, which sits along Route 35 and is next to Wawa, is a good location with "great visibility." Hazlet is a "great community," he said.

He is targeting an opening in early 2026. It will be a full-service Buffalo Wild Wings with 250 seats, 80 to 90 televisions and 30 beers on tap, Litman said. There will be a separate area for takeout orders.

David P. Willis, an award-winning business writer, has covered business, retail, real estate and consumer news at the Asbury Park Press for 27 years. He writes APP.com's What's Going There column and can be reached at dwillis@gannettnj.com. Please sign up for his weekly newsletter and join his What's Going There page on Facebook for updates.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.

Service Areas

 DUI Attorney Hazlet, NJ

Our Clients Matter Most!

Service Areas
Scroll to Top
Scroll to Top