DUI Lawyers in Metuchen, 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 Metuchen, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Metuchen, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Metuchen, 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 Metuchen, 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 Metuchen, 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 Metuchen Town Plaza near Metuchen, 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 Metuchen, 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 Middlesex College in Metuchen, 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 Metuchen, 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 Thomas Edison National Historical Park in Metuchen, 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 Metuchen, 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 Metuchen, 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 Metuchen, NJ
Metuchen Arts District Plan Advances With New Ordinance
Sarah Salvadorehttps://patch.com/new-jersey/edison-metuchen/metuchen-takes-key-step-forward-arts-district-development-plan
METUCHEN, NJ – Earlier this week, Metuchen introduced an ordinance adopting an amended redevelopment plan for the expanded arts district within the borough.This ordinance is a significant step in the development of the Metuchen Arts District and crucial for the construction of a Forum Theater.“This is a particularly exciting one, because this is the next step in the advancement of the Metuchen Arts District. This is essential for getting the theater ultimately built,” Mayor Jonathan M Busch said.The may...
METUCHEN, NJ – Earlier this week, Metuchen introduced an ordinance adopting an amended redevelopment plan for the expanded arts district within the borough.
This ordinance is a significant step in the development of the Metuchen Arts District and crucial for the construction of a Forum Theater.
“This is a particularly exciting one, because this is the next step in the advancement of the Metuchen Arts District. This is essential for getting the theater ultimately built,” Mayor Jonathan M Busch said.
The mayor emphasized the challenging process involved in reaching this milestone. “This is one that was not easy to get to. This is the first step since the meeting where we had the concept of the arts district plan presented by DEVCO and our planners.”
The ordinance was adopted unanimously on first reading, and will not go the Planning Board. A special Planning Board meeting is scheduled for May 7 to further review the ordinance.
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A public hearing on the ordinance is set for May 12.
The theater was built in 1928 as a simple theater, and today is in a significant state of disrepair, with visible cracking through the exterior walls and foundation.
Currently the theatre is about 8,600 square feet, and the proposed reimagined theater will be about 21,000 square feet. The Forum Theatre project cost is around $30 million, with Metuchen already having $25 million. The borough is now seeking $5 million more.
Read More Here: Metuchen’s Forum Theatre Project Includes Building Residential Units
Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com
Metuchen Opens Registrations For 2025 Municipal Pool Season
Sarah Salvadorehttps://patch.com/new-jersey/edison-metuchen/registration-opens-metuchen-municipal-pool-2025-season
The senior rates have been adjusted from 490 to $120 this year. Patch StaffMETUCHEN, NJ – Summer is around the corner and Metuchen has opened registrations for the 2025 Municipal Pool season.The Municipal pool will open beginning June 13 to Sept. 1.The pool is a self-sustaining facility, and relies entirely on membership fees to cover operating costs like staffing, maintenance, and equipment—ensuring that property taxes aren’t used for these expenses.“Without sufficient membership ...
The senior rates have been adjusted from 490 to $120 this year.
Patch Staff
METUCHEN, NJ – Summer is around the corner and Metuchen has opened registrations for the 2025 Municipal Pool season.
The Municipal pool will open beginning June 13 to Sept. 1.
The pool is a self-sustaining facility, and relies entirely on membership fees to cover operating costs like staffing, maintenance, and equipment—ensuring that property taxes aren’t used for these expenses.
“Without sufficient membership support, we wouldn’t be able to maintain and operate the pool for our community,” the Borough said. “Each year, the Borough and Pool Commission strive to set fair and affordable rates that reflect rising costs.”
The Borough has been particularly mindful of senior members when setting prices. “Over the past four years, we were able to keep senior rates particularly low, increasing them only from $80 to $90,” the Borough said.
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However, after reviewing the costs of similar municipal pools, and to ensure that Metuchen can minimize increases for other membership categories, the Borough was “forced’ to adjust its senior rates to $120 for early registration (April 1 – May 26) and $130 for regular registration (May 27 – Sept. 1).
“This change helps us ensure the pool remains accessible and sustainable for all,” the borough said.
For more information on rates, hours of operations etc., click here.
Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com
'Embraced The Poor, The Migrant:' Diocese Of Metuchen Mourns Pope Francis
Sarah Salvadorehttps://patch.com/new-jersey/edison-metuchen/diocese-metuchen-mourns-death-pope-francis
"Our Holy Father has emphasized the mercy of God," Bishop Checchio said in his message. Patch StaffMETUCHEN, NJ — Pope Francis, history’s first Latin American pontiff, died on Monday. He was 88.Elected leaders and the religious across the state mourned the loss of the Bishop of Rome, who had led the Roman Catholic Church since his election in 2013.In a message to the community, Bishop James F. Checchio of Metuchen highlighted how the Pope embraced the ministry of the poor and the migrant....
"Our Holy Father has emphasized the mercy of God," Bishop Checchio said in his message.
Patch Staff
METUCHEN, NJ — Pope Francis, history’s first Latin American pontiff, died on Monday. He was 88.
Elected leaders and the religious across the state mourned the loss of the Bishop of Rome, who had led the Roman Catholic Church since his election in 2013.
In a message to the community, Bishop James F. Checchio of Metuchen highlighted how the Pope embraced the ministry of the poor and the migrant.
"With heavy hearts the Diocese of Metuchen mourns the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis. From the moment of his election as Supreme Pontiff when he took the name Francis, our Holy Father has emphasized the mercy of God, embracing in his Petrine ministry the poor, the migrant, the marginalized and all those broken by this world’s problems and concerns," Checchio said.
"We entrust his noble soul to the hands of our Blessed Mother to accompany him to our Father's house. In this Jubilee year in which Pope Francis called us to be Pilgrims of Hope, he has now made the ultimate pilgrimage to the embrace of our loving God."
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The Holy Father named himself after St. Francis of Assisi in deference to the saint’s humility and commitment to the poor and his message of peace. He lived in a simple two-room suite at the Vatican guesthouse rather than the more luxurious Apostolic Palace.
History’s first Latin American pontiff and also the first Jesuit elected to head the Roman Catholic Church.
The Bishop of Rome charmed the world with his compassion for the poor and humble style. But he did alienate conservatives across the globe with his critiques on capitalism and climate change.
Francis, who suffered from chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed as a young man, was admitted to Gemelli hospital in February for a respiratory crisis that developed into double pneumonia. He spent 38 days there, the longest hospitalization of his 12-year papacy.
The pope emerged from his convalescence on Easter Sunday to bless thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square and treat them to a surprise popemobile romp through the piazza, drawing wild cheers and applause as he continued his recovery from a near-fatal bout of double pneumonia.
Gov. Phil Murphy said in a statement that he and First Lady Tammy Murphy were "heartbroken" over the news.
"Throughout his life, Pope Francis taught all of us to lead with compassion, conviction, and humility," Murphy said. "From Buenos Aires to Rome, he reminded us that we are inextricably bound to one another, and that we all have a sacred duty to alleviate suffering across the world. He was a model of mercy and inclusivity, never hesitating to comfort the sick, the indigent, or the most marginalized among us."
Read More: 'Legacy Of Love, Mercy And Service': New Jersey Reacts To The Death Of Pope Francis
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More from Edison-Metuchen
Metuchen’s St. Joe’s Appoints Mark Taylor As Head Basketball Coach
Sarah Salvadorehttps://patch.com/new-jersey/edison-metuchen/metuchen-s-st-joe-s-appoints-mark-taylor-head-basketball-coach
"I am very excited to be back home where it all started for me," Taylor said. Patch StaffMETCHEN, NJ — Saint Joseph High School in Metuchen has appointed Mark Taylor ‘83 as head basketball coach, the school announced Thursday.A standout student-athlete at Saint Joe's in the early 1980s, Taylor originally coached his alma mater to two Greater Middlesex Conference championships, two NJSIAA Non-Public section titles and seven division crowns from 1997 to 2006.“This is an exciting day for...
"I am very excited to be back home where it all started for me," Taylor said.
Patch Staff
METCHEN, NJ — Saint Joseph High School in Metuchen has appointed Mark Taylor ‘83 as head basketball coach, the school announced Thursday.
A standout student-athlete at Saint Joe's in the early 1980s, Taylor originally coached his alma mater to two Greater Middlesex Conference championships, two NJSIAA Non-Public section titles and seven division crowns from 1997 to 2006.
“This is an exciting day for Saint Joseph High School as we welcome home one of the most successful student-athletes and coaches in school history,” Saint Joseph President John G. Nolan, Jr. P’09 said.
“For three decades, Mark Taylor has built championship programs on and off the basketball court. His commitment to developing a well-rounded student-athlete experience, including forming successful young men in faith, leadership, academics and basketball make Mark a perfect fit for our culture. I look forward to watching our program return to prominence next season.”
During his first stint at the program, Taylor developed Jay Williams ‘99 and Andrew Bynum ‘05 into McDonald’s High School All-Americans.
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Williams was the National High School Player of the Year in 1999 before attending Duke University and was later selected No. 2 overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 2002 NBA Draft.
Bynum was drafted out of Saint Joe’s No. 10 overall in the 2005 draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. Taylor’s teams have produced eight NBA draft picks, including two NBA Draft Lottery selections (top 4 picks) and over 100 NCAA Division I players.
“I am very excited to be back home where it all started for me,” Taylor said. “Not only did I begin my coaching career here, but this is where I started my life journey as a student in the 1980s. I'm excited about the challenge and will work tirelessly to build us back to where we were when I left in 2006, a perennial powerhouse in Middlesex County.”
After leaving Saint Joe’s following the 2006 season, Taylor had a five year stint at Ridge High School that included one Somerset County title. He was named head coach at St. Benedict’s Prep ahead of the 2011 season.
In 14 years as head coach of the Grey Bees, he helped build the program by winning nine NJSIAA Prep A state championships, and earning five National Prep Championship tournament invitations.
He was inducted into the New Jersey Basketball Hall of Honor in 2023.
“Mark Taylor’s success in the New Jersey high school basketball landscape has been second to none over the past 28 years,” Saint Joseph Director of Athletics Bill Tracy said.
“We are excited to welcome yet another hall of fame caliber coach to the Saint Joseph Athletics Department. More importantly, I am confident that Coach Taylor’s focus on forming successful young men will have a positive impact on the student-athlete experience at Saint Joseph High School. We welcome him back with open arms and now set our sights on bringing trophies back to Maglio Gymnasium.”
A 2001 Saint Joseph Athletics Hall of Fame inductee, Taylor earned All-American honors on the soccer pitch and All-State honors on the hardwood. His basketball success led him to a collegiate career at Assumption College (1983-1984 season), then Fordham University (1984-1988)
Outside of coaching, Taylor is an entrepreneur with a history of building successful businesses across many industries.
He holds a business degree in finance management from Fordham University and a masters certificate in Christian Ministries from Liberty University.
He lives in Basking Ridge with his wife Tammy and five sons - Ryan, Matthew, Michael, Daniel and George.
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