DUI Lawyer Howell, NJ
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DUI Lawyers in Howell, 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 Howell, NJ

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

 Legal Representation Howell, NJ
 DUI Case Help Howell, 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 Howell, NJ
 DUI Consultation Howell, 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 Howell Living History Farm near Howell, 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 Howell, 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 Howell, 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 Howell, 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 Howell, NJ

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

It doesn't take a graduate from Havenwood Montessori School in Howell, 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 Howell, 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 Howell, 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 Twin Lights State Historic Site in Howell, 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 Howell, 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 Howell, NJ
Failing

1. Failing to Hire Reputable DUI Attorneys in Howell, 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 Howell, 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 Howell, 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 Howell, NJ
 DUI Defense Howell, NJ

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

Howell 8th Grader Is 'True Inspiration': Patch Star Students

Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight students excelling in academics, athletics and community service.Howell, New Jersey — New Jersey is full of bright, driven young people making a difference in and out of the classroom. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight students excelling in academics, athletics and community service.This submission comes from Chrissy Risden who nominated Riley of New Jersey.If you know a student who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! ...

Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight students excelling in academics, athletics and community service.

Howell, New Jersey — New Jersey is full of bright, driven young people making a difference in and out of the classroom. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight students excelling in academics, athletics and community service.

This submission comes from Chrissy Risden who nominated Riley of New Jersey.

If you know a student who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured as a Star Student on Patch.

What is the star student’s name?

Riley

Find out what's happening in Howellfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

What grade is the student in?

8th

How do you know the star student?

She is my daughter

Tell us about your star student's accomplishments and why they deserve to be recognized on Patch!

Riley is an 8th grade student in Howell. In 2021, at the end of 4th grade, Riley was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. She fought for 2 and half years and rang the bell on October 4, 2023. Riley missed the end of 4th grade, all of 5th grade and many days absent in 6th and 7th grades. Riley underwent a full hip replacement in March 2024 caused by the high dose steroids that was used to treat the leukemia. Through all of this Riley has continued to work hard to stay on top of her academics. She has made honor roll all year. Riley decided to apply for a magnet program at Freehold Regional High School District and was accepted to the Prestigious Scholars’ Center for the Humanities. Not only has Riley continued to work hard on her academics but she has made it a priority to continue with Girl Scouting as it means so much to her to be able to give back to the community and make the world a better place. Riley is wrapping up this scouting year with finishing up her Girl Scout Silver Award project which is to spread childhood cancer awareness in the community. Riley is hosting a community information fair on July 13, 2025 from 11am to 3pm at Southard Fire Department to bring all aspects of her project together. Riley is a true inspiration and I am so grateful and honored to be her Mom.

What three words best describe your star student?

Inspiring, Courageous, Survivor

Keep up the great work, Riley If you know an outstanding student who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch.

Man Who Sexually Assaulted Friend's Daughter Sentenced In Monmouth County

The 12-year-old girl told her mother in 2022 about the assaults, which happened in Howell and Marlboro; he hid a camera in their home, too.Updated Thu, Apr 10, 2025 at 8:57 am ETFREEHOLD, NJ — A Howell Township man has been sentenced to 41½ years for repeatedly sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl over about a year, the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office said.John K. Cruz, 54, was sentenced Tuesday by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Richard W. English, in the series of sexual assaults that happened...

The 12-year-old girl told her mother in 2022 about the assaults, which happened in Howell and Marlboro; he hid a camera in their home, too.

Updated Thu, Apr 10, 2025 at 8:57 am ET

FREEHOLD, NJ — A Howell Township man has been sentenced to 41½ years for repeatedly sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl over about a year, the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office said.

John K. Cruz, 54, was sentenced Tuesday by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Richard W. English, in the series of sexual assaults that happened in 2021 and 2022, Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago said.

Cruz must serve at least 85 percent of the first 40 years of his term before becoming eligible for parole, under the provisions of New Jersey’s No Early Release Act.

The girl told her mother in October 2022 that Cruz, a longtime family friend, had sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions, at his home in Howell and at the victim's home in Marlboro, the prosecutor's office said. Investigators arrested him a short time later, prosecutors said, and he was indicted in October 2023.

Cruz was convicted in a bench trial before English last fall on charges of first-degree aggravated sexual assault, second-degree sexual assault, third-degree endangering the welfare of a child, along with fourth-degree stalking, which resulted from Cruz secretly placing a camera in the victim’s family home, prosecutors said.

Find out what's happening in Howellfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The 40-year sentence applied to the aggravated sexual assault charge, while the other counts were merged into the sentence, with the exception the stalking charge, prosecutors said. Cruz received an 18-month term, to be served consecutively, for that charge.

After becoming eligible for parole, at which time he would be in his late 80s, Cruz would have to register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law and be subject to parole supervision for life.

Nine most expensive homes sold in the Howell area, May 12-18

A house in Howell that sold for $785,000 tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in Howell area in the past week.In total, 20 residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $521,523. The average price per square foot ended up at $332.The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of May 12 even if the property may have been sold earlier.9. $325K, single-family house at 10 E. Third Street...

A house in Howell that sold for $785,000 tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in Howell area in the past week.

In total, 20 residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $521,523. The average price per square foot ended up at $332.

The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of May 12 even if the property may have been sold earlier.

9. $325K, single-family house at 10 E. Third Street

The sale of the detached house at 10 E. Third Street in Howell has been finalized. The price was $325,000, and the new owners took over the house in April. It was built in 1951 and has a living area of 949 square feet. The price per square foot was $342. The deal was finalized on April 29.

8. $365K, condominium at 12 Max Place

A sale has been finalized for a condominium at 12 Max Place in Howell. The price was $365,000 and the new owners took over the condominium in April. The condo was built in 1979 and the living area totals 1,200 square feet. The price per square foot ended up at $304. The deal was finalized on April 29.

7. $375K, single-family home at 6 Silversmith Court

The property at 6 Silversmith Court in Howell has new owners. The price was $375,000. The house was built in 1979 and has a living area of 2,032 square feet. The price per square foot is $185. The deal was finalized on April 23.

6. $500K, single-family residence at 122 Squankum Yellowbrook Road

A 1,126-square-foot single-family residence at 122 Squankum Yellowbrook Road, Farmingdale, has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in April and the total purchase price was $500,000, $444 per square foot. The house was built in 1970. The deal was finalized on April 25.

5. $635K, single-family house at 5 Westbrook Road

A 1,635-square-foot detached house at 5 Westbrook Road in Howell has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in April and the total purchase price was $635,000, $388 per square foot. The house was built in 1965. The deal was finalized on April 29.

4. $650K, single-family residence at 17 Kensington Drive

The sale of the single-family residence at 17 Kensington Drive, Howell, has been finalized. The price was $650,000, and the house changed hands in April. The house was built in 1964 and has a living area of 2,063 square feet. The price per square foot was $315. The deal was finalized on April 23.

3. $655K, single-family home at 85 Salem Hill Road

The property at 85 Salem Hill Road in Howell has new owners. The price was $655,000. The detached house was built in 1964 and has a living area of 1,674 square feet. The price per square foot is $391. The deal was finalized on April 28.

2. $755K, single-family home at 103 Starlight Road

The property at 103 Starlight Road in Howell has new owners. The price was $755,000. The single-family house was built in 1986 and has a living area of 1,982 square feet. The price per square foot is $381. The deal was finalized on April 29.

1. $785K, single-family house at 21 Sun Hollow Road

A 2,494-square-foot single-family house at 21 Sun Hollow Road in Howell has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in April and the total purchase price was $785,000, $315 per square foot. The house was built in 1994. The deal was finalized on April 29.

Real Estate Newswire is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to generate analysis of data from Propmix, an aggregator of national real-estate data.

Eight most expensive homes sold in the Howell area, April 7-13

A house in Howell that sold for $830,000 tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in Howell area in the past week.In total, nine residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $641,778, or $321 per square foot.The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of April 7 even if the property may have been sold earlier.8. $460K, condominium at 58 Winged Foot CourtA 1,854 square-foot co...

A house in Howell that sold for $830,000 tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in Howell area in the past week.

In total, nine residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $641,778, or $321 per square foot.

The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of April 7 even if the property may have been sold earlier.

8. $460K, condominium at 58 Winged Foot Court

A 1,854 square-foot condominium at 58 Winged Foot Court, Howell, has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in March and the total purchase price was $460,000, $248 per square foot. The condominium was built in 2000. The deal was finalized on March 20.

7. $480K, single-family house at 2 Westwood Drive

The sale of the single-family house at 2 Westwood Drive, Howell, has been finalized. The price was $480,000, and the new owners took over the house in March. The house was built in 1960 and has a living area of 1,521 square feet. The price per square foot was $316. The deal was finalized on March 20.

6. $561K, single-family residence at 92 Maypink Lane

The sale of the single family residence at 92 Maypink Lane in Howell has been finalized. The price was $561,000, and the new owners took over the house in March. The house was built in 2006 and has a living area of 1,948 square feet. The price per square foot was $288. The deal was finalized on March 19.

5. $590K, single-family home at 41 Hilltop Road

The property at 41 Hilltop Road in Howell has new owners. The price was $590,000. The house was built in 2000 and has a living area of 1,796 square feet. The price per square foot is $329. The deal was finalized on March 20.

4. $640K, single-family residence at 35 Honeysuckle Way

The 2,284 square-foot single-family house at 35 Honeysuckle Way in Howell has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in March and the total purchase price was $640,000, $280 per square foot. The house was built in 1987. The deal was finalized on March 25.

3. $690K, single-family house at 20 Capitol Reef Road

A sale has been finalized for the single-family home at 20 Capitol Reef Road in Howell. The price was $690,000 and the new owners took over the house in March. The house was built in 1997 and the living area totals 1,930 square feet. The price per square foot ended up at $358. The deal was finalized on March 21.

2. $805K, single-family home at 5 Diamond Lane

The property at 5 Diamond Lane in Howell has new owners. The price was $805,000. The house was built in 1996 and has a living area of 2,100 square feet. The price per square foot is $383. The deal was finalized on March 20.

1. $830K, single-family home at 32 Danella Way

The 2,278 square-foot single-family residence at 32 Danella Way in Howell has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in March and the total purchase price was $830,000, $364 per square foot. The house was built in 1994. The deal was finalized on March 25.

Real Estate Newswire is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to generate analysis of data from Propmix, an aggregator of national real-estate data.

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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.

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