DUI Lawyer Highlands, NJ
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DUI Lawyers in Highlands, 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 Highlands, NJ

The DUI Lawyers in Highlands, 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 Highlands, NJ
 Criminal Defense Lawyer Highlands, 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 Highlands, NJ.

 Legal Representation Highlands, NJ
 DUI Case Help Highlands, 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 Highlands, NJ
 DUI Consultation Highlands, 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 Twin Lights State Historic Site near Highlands, 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 Highlands, 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 Highlands, 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 Highlands, 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 Highlands, NJ

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

It doesn't take a graduate from Marine Academy of Science and Technology in Highlands, 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 Highlands, 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 Highlands, 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 Sandy Hook Lighthouse in Highlands, 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 Highlands, 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 Highlands, NJ
Failing

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

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DUI Lawyer Highlands, NJ
 DUI Defense Highlands, NJ

DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Highlands, 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 Highlands, NJ

Bill Kibler to Join New Jersey Highlands Council

Hunterdon County Resident and Longtime Environmental Advocate Brings Extensive Watershed Expertise to RoleCHESTER, N.J. — The New Jersey Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council will be swearing in Bill Kibler of Califon Borough as a new Council Member at its April 17 meeting. Currently the Executive Director of the Great Swamp Watershed Association, Kibler is an accomplished environmental leader, with a depth and breadth of experience that is directly related to the work of the Council.“We&r...

Hunterdon County Resident and Longtime Environmental Advocate Brings Extensive Watershed Expertise to Role

CHESTER, N.J. — The New Jersey Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council will be swearing in Bill Kibler of Califon Borough as a new Council Member at its April 17 meeting. Currently the Executive Director of the Great Swamp Watershed Association, Kibler is an accomplished environmental leader, with a depth and breadth of experience that is directly related to the work of the Council.

“We’re very excited to have Bill join the Council,” says Ben Spinelli, Executive Director of the Highlands Council, “Bill’s experience in helping protect the waters of the Highland region will be extremely helpful to staff when we bring matters before the Council. Bill understands the goals of the Highlands Act and the Regional Master Plan well and is also keenly aware of the challenges we face. Having him as part of the Council will certainly be an asset in advancing our mission.”

An environmental advocate for more than 25 years, Kibler received a B.S. in environmental science from the United States Military Academy at West Point and then served in the United States Army Corps of Engineers for seven years where, among other notable accomplishments, he provided planning, engineering, and other critical support to the clean-up of the Exxon Valdez oil spill in Alaska. He later attended Syracuse University College of Law, earning his J.D. and subsequentially specializing in environmental and land use law.

Currently, Kibler serves as Executive Director of the Great Swamp Watershed Association. Prior roles include Director of Policy & Science at the Raritan Headwaters Association from 2011 through 2024 and Executive Director of the South Branch Watershed Association from 2005 until 2011.

“I’m thrilled that Governor Murphy has entrusted me with the opportunity to serve the people of New Jersey on the Highlands Council. Protecting clean water is my passion,” says Kibler, “I look forward to working with the other dedicated members of the Council and the incredible staff to ensure a bright future for the Garden State and our region.”

In addition to serving New Jersey’s environment through his employment, Kibler also has a number of professional affiliations that illustrate his commitment. His current roles include serving on the Raritan Basin Watershed Alliance Technical Advisory Committee and Steering Committee, the North Jersey Resource Conservation and Development Council Board of Trustees, the New Jersey Keep It Green Campaign Committee, and the New Jersey Section of the American Water Resources Association among others. Kibler is also active in his community volunteering his time as the Chief of the Califon Fire Company.

“Bill is well-known and respected throughout the region and we are delighted to have him join the Council,” states Carl Richko, the Highlands Council Chairman. “We’re looking forward to working with him and anticipate great contributions.”

New Jersey Highlands wants to be a tourist destination. Here are the challenges

...

A marketing plan under development for northern New Jersey’s Highlands aims to separate the region from the state's long-standing stereotypes: mobsters, fist pumps and reality-show drama.

The branding effort, led by national place-branding firm North Star and funded by the state's Highlands Council, is focusing on fresh air, open space and a break from leisure as usual. Firm officials said the region could be a draw in the short term to licensed, and mostly urban, drivers seeking a short-term escape.

Rather than the cliches cemented by legendary meme generators "The Sopranos," "Jersey Shore" and "The Real Housewives of New Jersey," the Highlands can be positioned as offering fresh cultural, agricultural and recreational discoveries in a unique yet accessible natural retreat, they said.

The ultimate goal, according to officials from both the firm and the Highlands Council, is to generate tourism to help boost a regional economy depressed in some ways by the strict development restrictions in place to protect the region's watershed and preserve its natural resources.

“The belief is that tourism can provide that economic viability,” said Will Ketchum, CEO of North Star.

Still, the push for tourism comes with complications. As it stands, the "Highlands" of Northern New Jersey are not very well-known compared to some of the obvious competition: the Hudson Valley, the Catskills and the Poconos.

The region covers parts of 88 municipalities in seven counties, cutting northwest from Hunterdon County through to Bergen County. However, most of the counties and municipalities are non-conforming when it comes to the Highlands Regional Master Plan, the implementation arm of the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act of 2004 that helped define the region in New Jersey. Therefore, most of its towns are not natural promoters.

Search for "New Jersey Highlands" on Google and the first thing it notes is that Highlands is a municipality in northern Monmouth County, adjacent to the borough of Atlantic Highlands. Neither town is in the Highlands Region of New Jersey, however.

Another complication is that the Highlands Region goes beyond New Jersey. A geologic formation, the greater Highlands Region covers about 5,500 square miles from Connecticut deep into Pennsylvania. Less than a quarter of the federally recognized Highlands Region is in New Jersey, according to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service records.

Highlands Council Planning Manager Maryjude Haddock-Weiler, who recommended the branding and marketing plan to the council in early 2024, said then that New Jersey's Highlands could benefit from a firm identity.

"When you think about the Pinelands, you have a specific image in mind. Even when you think about the Meadowlands, you probably have an image," she said "But when you think about the Highlands, it's really hard to grasp what it is we are."

Highlands Council members recognize the contradiction in the Highlands Act's own policies. The act's strict environmental regulations prohibit the expansion of sewer service areas in much of the region, limiting the development of new infrastructure to support tourism, including hotels. Many municipalities in the region have also been less than accommodating to bed and breakfasts and other short-term rentals, with many introducing policies amid their boom in the past decade to restrict them in the name of protecting neighborhood safety and suburban tranquility.

Highlands Council members in January discussed the possibility of lobbying efforts on local governments to push for rezoning to support the tourism industry in appropriate areas. However, the plan for now is to have people come, but not necessarily stay, according to North Star officials. In the near term, the focus will be on day trips or short stays to build awareness and demand, Ketchum said.

"There is Crystal Springs [Resort in Vernon] and places like that, but there just not enough of them in our view," he said.

The branding effort stems from the 2021 New Jersey Highlands Economic Sustainability Plan, which called for a unified regional identity to drive economic growth, according to Highlands Council records. The branding and marketing plan was expected to cost about $130,000, but the council approved up to $200,000 in total spending to account for any additional work it may want done and other expenses, records show.

The contract was awarded and work began in the spring of 2024, with North Star working alongside the Highlands Council and the Economic Sustainability County Coalition to gather background information and organize outreach efforts, records show. After that, the firm moved on to conduct community surveys, cultural asset assessments and interviews with residents, farmers, business owners and local officials to capture the character of the Highlands and shape a brand.

20th Annual Highlands St. Patrick’s Day Parade

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Middletown|Local EventHighlands Business Partnership, NeighborSat, Mar 22, 2025 at 2:00 PMHuddy Park, 329 Bay Ave, Highlands...

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Middletown|Local Event

Highlands Business Partnership, Neighbor

Sat, Mar 22, 2025 at 2:00 PM
Huddy Park, 329 Bay Ave, Highlands, NJ, 07732
More info here

The Highlands Business Partnership will paint the town green for the 20th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 2:00 PM. The colorful festivities will highlight Irish culture with nearly 100 marching units, including bagpipers, marching bands, Irish dancers, and beautifully decorated floats. After the parade, visit one of Highlands’s many great restaurants for pipe bands, live entertainment, and St. Patrick’s Day festivities. For more information, visit highlandsnj.com.

More Upcoming Events

Local Event

May6

Atlantic Highlands - NJ Boat Safety Class and Exam (Two Night)

Tuesday, 6:00 pmMiddletown, NJ

Local Event

May7

A Musical Biography Program Celebrating Bobby Darin

Wednesday, 1:00 pmMiddletown, NJ

Local Event

May7

NJ Daytrips: A New Jersey Travel Guide

Wednesday, 7:00 pmMiddletown, NJ

Local Event

May8

Spring Meditation Series

Thursday, 9:30 amMiddletown, NJ

Local Event

May8

Celebrate Ocho de Mayo with the Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce!

Thursday, 5:00 pmMiddletown, NJ

Local Event

May8

Five Courses Wine-Paired Dinner | Chef Burke + Duckhorn Vineyards

Thursday, 6:30 pmMiddletown, NJ

New Jersey high school football: Northern Highlands announces 2025 schedule

Football schedules for the 2025 season are starting to be announced all across the Garden State and High School On SI New Jersey will share these as we see them.Recently, the Northern Highlands Highlanders announced the following slate of games for 2025. The Highlanders will play eight games, including two contests a...

Football schedules for the 2025 season are starting to be announced all across the Garden State and High School On SI New Jersey will share these as we see them.

Recently, the Northern Highlands Highlanders announced the following slate of games for 2025. The Highlanders will play eight games, including two contests against Holy Spirit and Union City.

Among other teams on the schedule are Hackensack, Pascack Valley, Ridgewood, Ramapo and on the road against Wayne Valley.

Below is the Highlanders' 2025 regular season schedule, with official game times to be announced.

2025 NORTHERN HIGHLANDS HIGHLANDERS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Aug. 28: at Holy Spirit

Sep. 5: at Wayne Valley

Sep. 12: vs. Hackensack

Sep. 19: at Pascack Valley

Sep. 26: at Union City

Oct. 3: vs. Old Tappan

Oct. 17: at Ridgewood

Oct. 24: vs. Ramapo

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Follow High School On SI throughout the 2024 high school football season for Live Updates, the most up to date Schedules & Scores and complete coverage from the preseason through the state championships!

Be sure to Bookmark High School on SI for all of the latest high school football news.

High School On SI will serve as the premier destination for high school sports fans, delivering unparalleled coverage of high school athletics nationwide through in-depth stories, recruiting coverage, rankings, highlights and much more. The launch of a dedicated high school experience expands Sports Illustrated’s reach to even more local communities as fans can now truly follow athletes from “preps to the pros” on a single platform, bringing them closer to the action than ever before. For more information, visit si.com/high-school.

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