DUI Lawyers in New Providence, 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 New Providence, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in New Providence, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in New Providence, 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 New Providence, 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 New Providence, 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. 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 New Providence, 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
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 New Providence, 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. 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 New Providence, 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 New Providence, 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 New Providence, NJ
Boys Lacrosse: New Providence vs. Montclair Kimberley, April 14, 2025
Mile Djordjiovskihttps://www.nj.com/galleries/FIAXWHGW5VAHVOROTUGLUDPGRA/
1 / 39Mile Djordjiovski | For NJ Advance MediaBoys Lacrosse: New Providence vs. Montclair Kimberley, April 14, 2025T.J. Munn (2) of New Providence shoots and scores while against Benji Safirstein (35) of Montclair Kimberley during the boys lacrosse game between New Providence and Montclair Kimberley at New Providence High School in New Providence, NJ on Monday, April 14, 2025....
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Mile Djordjiovski | For NJ Advance Media
Boys Lacrosse: New Providence vs. Montclair Kimberley, April 14, 2025
T.J. Munn (2) of New Providence shoots and scores while against Benji Safirstein (35) of Montclair Kimberley during the boys lacrosse game between New Providence and Montclair Kimberley at New Providence High School in New Providence, NJ on Monday, April 14, 2025.Get Photo
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Boys Lacrosse: New Providence vs. Montclair Kimberley, April 14, 2025
Simon Hardiman (1) of Montclair Kimberley makes the save during the boys lacrosse game between New Providence and Montclair Kimberley at New Providence High School in New Providence, NJ on Monday, April 14, 2025.Get Photo
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Mile Djordjiovski | For NJ Advance Media
Boys Lacrosse: New Providence vs. Montclair Kimberley, April 14, 2025
Ryan Knight (8) of New Providence shoots and scores during the boys lacrosse game between New Providence and Montclair Kimberley at New Providence High School in New Providence, NJ on Monday, April 14, 2025.Get Photo
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Drive Thru Dinners at New Providence Presbyterian Church
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/newprovidence/calendar/event/20250423/787ba6c6-3bc8-4fa7-b4ce-f114634a6083/drive-thru-dinners-at-new-providence-presbyterian-church
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.New Providence-Berkeley Heights|Local EventNew Providence Presbyterian Church, NeighborWed, Apr 23, 2025 at 5:00 PM1307 Springfield Ave, New Providence, NJ, 07974...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
New Providence-Berkeley Heights|Local Event
New Providence Presbyterian Church, Neighbor
- Wed, Apr 23, 2025 at 5:00 PM
- 1307 Springfield Ave, New Providence, NJ, 07974
Join us for Drive-Thru Dinners on Wednesday, April 23, from 5–7 PM. Drive in the entrance off Passaic Street to pick up a freshly prepared meal—completely free! Grab one for a friend or neighbor, also.
For more details or to learn about New Providence Presbyterian Church (NPPC), visit thecornernj.com or call 908.665.0050. NPPC is located at 1307 Springfield Avenue, New Providence, NJ.
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Primrose School Expands to New Providence: Early Education Leader to Open Second Location This Summer
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/new-providence/sections/business-and-finance/articles/primrose-school-expands-to-new-providence-early-education-leader-to-open-second-location-this-summer
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ — Parents in New Providence and surrounding communities will soon have another trusted option for early childhood education as Primrose School, known for its Balanced Learning® curriculum and strong community presence, expands with a new location at 165 South Street.Led by longtime Center Director Amanda Pierson, Primrose School of Berkeley Heights has thrived for over a decade, serving local families with high-quality programming for children ages six weeks to six years. “We are thrilled to expan...
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ — Parents in New Providence and surrounding communities will soon have another trusted option for early childhood education as Primrose School, known for its Balanced Learning® curriculum and strong community presence, expands with a new location at 165 South Street.
Led by longtime Center Director Amanda Pierson, Primrose School of Berkeley Heights has thrived for over a decade, serving local families with high-quality programming for children ages six weeks to six years. “We are thrilled to expand our presence in the community, offering even more high-quality early childhood education in New Providence,” said Pierson. “This new location will help meet the needs of local families, especially in a town where daycare options are limited.”
The new Primrose School of New Providence will include 12 classrooms and accommodate up to 185 students. While slightly smaller than the Berkeley Heights location, the New Providence school will still feature the same high standards, with full-day programs, a Transitional Kindergarten option, and three outdoor playgrounds designed with safety and development in mind.
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Primrose Schools are known for their Balanced Learning® curriculum, which blends purposeful play with teacher-guided instruction. The curriculum is constantly refined by an educational council to ensure it meets current standards and responds to classroom feedback. Teachers receive extensive training and use a digital platform—CRM (Curriculum Resource Management)—to access detailed lesson plans, teaching milestones, and training videos.
The school also incorporates programs like Mucho Mundo, an early Spanish language initiative, and offers preschool pathways and transitional kindergarten classrooms for children who may not be ready for a full jump to kindergarten. Pierson noted that many families appreciate this flexibility and the attention to emotional and social readiness.
“We’ve adjusted our programs based on community needs,” she said. “When we saw kindergarten enrollment drop after the introduction of full-day kindergarten in local public schools, we adapted—creating more toddler rooms and launching a transitional kindergarten program tailored for kids who need more time before entering traditional kindergarten.”
Pierson, who has worked at the Berkeley Heights location since shortly after its opening in 2014, will oversee the expansion while continuing to lead the current school.
The team credits owner Amina Gunaratne, a veteran in the education field and member of the national Primrose Advisory Council, for fostering growth and empowering leadership within her schools. Gunaratne also owns a Primrose School in Pennsylvania and has worked for years to find the right opportunity to bring the program to New Providence.
“I wouldn’t be here without Amina,” said Pierson. “She’s believed in me and helped me grow into this leadership role. Our team is like a family, and that support trickles down into the classrooms, where our teachers are dedicated and passionate about what they do.”
Now Enrolling for Late Summer 2024
The New Providence location is now accepting registrations for a target opening in August 2025, just in time for the school year. Families can schedule a visit or inquire about enrollment by calling 908.333.2612.
To welcome families and introduce the program, Primrose School of Berkeley Heights will host two Open House events on Saturday, April 5 and Saturday, May 3, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at 246 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ.
These events offer a chance for families to tour the school, meet the leadership team, and learn more about the unique programs that have made Primrose a trusted name in early education.
Primrose School of New Providence165 South Street, New Providence, NJ908.333.2612
Primrose School of Berkeley Heights246 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ908.286.0900
Learn more by visiting the Primrose School of Berkeley Heights website and following them on Facebook: Primrose School of Berkeley Heights.
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Stirling's Annual Street Fair & Food Truck Festival
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/newprovidence/calendar/event/20250427/3359ca12-9308-4b17-bb1b-9661e92d5039/stirlings-annual-street-fair
This event sponsored by the Long Hill Chamber of Commerce will be held along Main Avenue between Mercer & Somerset Streets from 10am-5pm rain or shine. The street will be closed to vehicle traffic during the event and will be transformed into a giant block party.SHOPPINGIf you like shopping then this is the place to be. We have quality exhibitors selling a selection of assorted items, a special arts & crafts section, live entertainment, kiddie rides & games, great festival foods & food trucks, and so m...
This event sponsored by the Long Hill Chamber of Commerce will be held along Main Avenue between Mercer & Somerset Streets from 10am-5pm rain or shine. The street will be closed to vehicle traffic during the event and will be transformed into a giant block party.
SHOPPINGIf you like shopping then this is the place to be. We have quality exhibitors selling a selection of assorted items, a special arts & crafts section, live entertainment, kiddie rides & games, great festival foods & food trucks, and so much more. Don’t miss stopping by the many local merchants & civic organizations to see what goodies they are passing out between Union & Essex Streets.
FOODIESAs you stroll along stop to have a bite to eat and sit at tables in our live music area. See the show we have planned with live music, dancing, karate demonstrations and more. So come hungry and enjoy eating carnival food favorites like a sausage & pepper sandwich, cheese steaks, kettle corn, chicken fingers, ice cream, zeppole, shish kabobs, gyros, fresh cut fries, fresh squeezed lemonade, Italian ice and the many great gourmet foods from the food trucks.
KIDSWe also have The “Kidz Traveling Shindig” which is a section dedicated to children with kiddie bounce rides, slides and interactive blow ups, face painters, sand art & kids games just to name a few things.
MUSICWe will have live entertainment throughout the day.
Take the train to the fair!You can take the NJ Transit Train to the Stirling Station and you will be at the street fair. By car the detour route is Passaic Ave. and Somerset Street. Parking is available at the Train Station lot, and the side streets. Enter the area from Valley Road on Warren Ave. or Passaic Ave. We hope that you’ll consider joining us and we look forward to seeing you.
This event is sponsored by Echoes-Sentinel & Long Hill Auto
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