DUI Lawyer Monmouth Beach, NJ
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DUI Lawyers in Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, NJ

The DUI Lawyers in Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, NJ
 Criminal Defense Lawyer Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, NJ.

 Legal Representation Monmouth Beach, NJ
 DUI Case Help Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, NJ
 DUI Consultation Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Battlefield State Park near Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, NJ

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

It doesn't take a graduate from Monmouth University in Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, NJ
Failing

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

DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Monmouth Beach, 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 Monmouth Beach, NJ

See Jersey Shore beach badge prices for 2025 — including some towns offering discounts

Summer may still be months away, but many Jersey Shore towns have announced 2025 beach badge pricing for daily and season tags.For early planners, some towns are offering preseason discounts on full season badges.Most New Jersey beaches require paid badges or tags, with prices ranging from $3.50 for a daily pass to $200 for a season pass.The towns offering discounts for se...

Summer may still be months away, but many Jersey Shore towns have announced 2025 beach badge pricing for daily and season tags.

For early planners, some towns are offering preseason discounts on full season badges.

Most New Jersey beaches require paid badges or tags, with prices ranging from $3.50 for a daily pass to $200 for a season pass.

The towns offering discounts for season passes if you purchase them early include Barnegat Light, Beach Haven, Brigantine, Lavallette, Margate and more.

MORE: Jersey Shore beach badge sales soar to $52M in 2024. See which towns made the most.

More than a dozen beaches offer free entry to veterans, and many have discount options for seniors and those with disabilities. Entrance is usually free for young children.

Want to compare beach tag prices? Here’s NJ Advance Media’s list of fees for Jersey Shore towns that have announced prices for the 2025 season:

Allenhurst

Asbury Park

Atlantic City

Avalon

Avon-by-the-Sea

Barnegat Light

Bay Head

Check back for 2025 pricing.

Beach Haven

Belmar

Bradley Beach

Check back for daily and weekly badge pricing.

Brick

Brigantine

Cape May

Cape May Point

Corson’s Inlet State Park

Deal

Harvey Cedars

Holgate

Island Beach State Park

Lavallette

Loch Arbour

Long Beach Township

Long Branch

Check back for 2025 pricing.

Longport

Check back for 2025 pricing.

Manasquan

Check back for 2025 pricing.

Mantoloking

Check back for 2025 pricing.

Margate

Monmouth Beach

North Wildwood

Ocean City

Ocean Grove

Ortley Beach

Check back for daily and weekly pricing.

Sandy Hook

Sea Bright

Sea Girt

Sea Isle City

Seaside Heights

Check back for 2025 pricing.

Seaside Park

Check back for 2025 pricing.

Seven Presidents (Long Branch)

Ship Bottom

Check back for 2025 pricing.

Spring Lake

Stone Harbor

Strathmere

Surf City

Ventnor

Check back for 2025 pricing.

Wildwood

Wildwood Crest

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Katie Kausch may be reached at kkausch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KatieKausch.

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Monmouth County, New Jersey Beach Named Among The Best In America

There is a gorgeous beach in Monmouth County that a major travel website thinks is among the best in America.When we came across this article, we did what most New Jersey residents did. We scrolled to find Cape May on the list, but it's not Cape May that's being honored this time.We never disagree with any honor bestowed upon our favorite Victorian town, but it is nice to see one of the other great Jersey Shore beaches getting some love.The list of the best beaches in America was put together by one of the most premier t...

There is a gorgeous beach in Monmouth County that a major travel website thinks is among the best in America.

When we came across this article, we did what most New Jersey residents did. We scrolled to find Cape May on the list, but it's not Cape May that's being honored this time.

We never disagree with any honor bestowed upon our favorite Victorian town, but it is nice to see one of the other great Jersey Shore beaches getting some love.

The list of the best beaches in America was put together by one of the most premier travel sites in the world, Travel & Leisure.

We are so happy to report that, along with famous beaches like Clearwater Beach in Florida and Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii, is our beloved Asbury Park beach.

I jumped out of my seat with joy when I read the news. I have always had a special place in my heart for Asbury Park's beach and boardwalk.

Read More: New Jersey's Top 10 Beaches

Even before the resurgence of the amazing city over the past decade, I used to visit the boardwalk and wonder what it must have been like during its heyday.

And now we get to live through the second heyday of this legendary beach and boardwalk area, and it's outstanding.

Asbury Park's boardwalk is alive and vibrant, the beach is gorgeous and immaculate, and the town boasts some of the best restaurants in the state.

Congratulations to Asbury Park for being named one of the best beaches in America. Visit Asbury Park soon and support its great local businesses.

My Kitchen Witch owner in Monmouth Beach is selling after 20 years; what will happen?

MONMOUTH BEACH -- Karyn Jarmer, who has led My Kitchen Witch through recessions, Superstorm Sandy and a pandemic, will sell ...

MONMOUTH BEACH -- Karyn Jarmer, who has led My Kitchen Witch through recessions, Superstorm Sandy and a pandemic, will sell the restaurant and catering business to an employee next month and step away, she said Friday.

Jarmer, 60, said she has been battling atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat that can leave her feeling like she has run a marathon, and finally decided to act on her doctor's advice to reduce her stress.

"I still love this business so much, and I can't give up writing menus and such, but it's the way the world is right now," she said. "It's making it very hard."

The sale to Lisa D'Averso marks the end of a chapter for the Beach Road business that has made a name by offering healthy comfort food, a witch-themed decor (more like a good witch than a bad witch), and a catering service that focuses on television and film productions.

Jarmer has managed to survive in a notoriously difficult industry in part through determination. During COVID-19, she and her masked-up staff took orders, put meals in customers' trunks, made deliveries and kept the restaurant afloat. She built a loyal following.

"Everybody goes there for coffee, everybody goes there for lunch, everybody goes there sometimes for special dinners," said Carl Gross, 79, who has lived in Monmouth Beach with his wife, Mary, since 1983. "Other things come and go, but Karyn's a fixture. It's home, you know?"

Jarmer lives in Red Bank with her wife, Melissa McConnell. A Neptune High School graduate, Jarmer began a catering business in New York City in 1995, building a high-profile client list that included the "Sally Jesse Raphael Show" and "Live with Regis and Kathie Lee Show."

Jarmer, however, began to worry about her safety after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and decided to move to Monmouth Beach full-time, where she had a home. One day after a run, she stopped in Acuna Cafe for breakfast, looked around, and, on a whim, asked the owner if he wanted to sell the restaurant.

He said no. But he called the next day with a change of heart. Jarmer bought the restaurant and, while thinking of a name, recalled the time she was catering for "The Rosie O'Donnell Show," when she got a last-minute phone call from the staff telling her Madonna was going to be there and would need a vegan breakfast.

Jarmer panicked. She wondered how she would pull it off.

"Well, you're the kitchen witch, aren't you?" a staff member told her.

Jarmer opened My Kitchen Witch May 13, 2005 — a Friday the 13th — and slowly found her stride. She started with scrambled eggs and omelets, before adding toast and expanding the menu. She opened seven days a week. She added Friday night dinners, a juice bar, a market and another catering business.

"Once I got my rhythm, I would say within a month or two, people really started spreading the word," Jarmer said. "And it was kind of like, be careful what you wish for. Because we were busy, and I started having waits for brunches on Saturday and Sunday for an hour."

Jarmer overcame obstacles. When Superstorm Sandy hit in 2012, she moved her catering business to Freehold within 48 hours and continued to operate while My Kitchen Witch — and the rest of Monmouth Beach — recovered from the flood. She reopened the restaurant nine months later.

The business continued to thrive, surviving the pandemic and taking advantage of a spike in television and film crews in New York and New Jersey that needed catering. Among the clients: the movie "Anora," which recently won the Academy Award for Best Picture.

Jarmer, however, said the stress was taking a toll. Diagnosed with AFib, her doctor told her five years ago that she needed to take a step back. She began to talk to D'Averso, who had worked for Jarmer for 12 years and helped build the catering operation, about buying the business.

D'Averso agreed. "I’m honored to be handed the torch of My Kitchen Witch and look forward to bringing it up to levels beyond your expectations," D'Averso said in a statement. "This seems like a natural step for me.”

Jarmer said she would help behind the scenes for the next three years — while devoting more time to pickleball, feeding deer at her home and tending to her garden — before walking away.

Officially, the sale is expected to be complete on May 13, 20 years after My Kitchen Witch opened.

"I hate the word 'retirement' because it sounds like I'm quitting," Jarmer said. "I'm passing it on so it can continue to grow. I'm just not going to work as hard. And, pretty soon, not at all."

Michael L. Diamond is a business reporter at the Asbury Park Press. He has been writing about the New Jersey economy and health care industry since 1999. He can be reached at mdiamond@gannettnj.com.

NJ shore beach rocked by strange stones that float on water

What is the mystery behind these floating stones in Monmouth County?We still don’t know for sure, but that’s what members of Clean Ocean Action are trying to figure out. They also have the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection investigating, as well.Monmouth Beach Environmental Commission board member Brian Thompson, who is also a leader in anti-plastic campaigns, notified COA about a mysterious ...

What is the mystery behind these floating stones in Monmouth County?

We still don’t know for sure, but that’s what members of Clean Ocean Action are trying to figure out. They also have the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection investigating, as well.

Monmouth Beach Environmental Commission board member Brian Thompson, who is also a leader in anti-plastic campaigns, notified COA about a mysterious wash-up along the beach a few days ago, according to the non-profit’s Facebook page.

After investigating further, COA staff members found thousands, possibly hundreds of thousands of what they describe as “pumice-like, lightweight, gray, porous stones,” that washed up from Pier Village in Long Branch to the entrance of Sandy Hook.

All the stones are similar in size, can easily fit in the palm of a hand, and they float, COA explained.

Some of the stones appear smoothed or shaped, with faint grid-like marks, suggesting they may be man-made.

While it’s still not 100% clear what these floating stones are, COA has a theory.

“The stones may have possibly been used in industrial, water, or wastewater filtration systems, landscaping, or construction. Recent heavy storms caused flooding, possibly releasing the material into a NY/NJ waterway, ultimately flowing into the ocean,” COA said on Facebook.

COA officials are asking for help in positively identifying these floating stones. If you know what they are, or where they came from, feel free to drop your thoughts on their Facebook page.

One person commented that they found half a dozen of these floating stones in Bradley Beach on Sunday. Another said there were tons of them on the beaches in Ocean Grove and Asbury Park.

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