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DUI Lawyers in North Plainfield, 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 North Plainfield, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in North Plainfield, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in North Plainfield, 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 North Plainfield, 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 North Plainfield, 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 The Marsh Mansion near North Plainfield, 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 North Plainfield, 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 UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ in North Plainfield, 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 North Plainfield, 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 The Deserted Village in North Plainfield, 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 North Plainfield, 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 North Plainfield, 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 North Plainfield, NJ
North Plainfield Flag Football Triumphs in Season Opener Against Franklin
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/north-plainfield-slash-green-brook-slash-watchung/sections/sports/articles/north-plainfield-flag-football-triumphs-in-season-opener-against-franklin
SportsPhoto Credit: NemcekPhoto Credit: NemcekPhoto Credit: NemcekPhoto Credit: NemcekPreviousNext By Jake NemcekPublished April 2, 2025 at 10:38 AMLast updated April 2, 2025 at 10:38 AMNORTH PLAINFIELD, NJ --North Plainfield celebrated a successful start to their season with a commanding vi...
Photo Credit: Nemcek
Photo Credit: Nemcek
Photo Credit: Nemcek
Photo Credit: Nemcek
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By Jake Nemcek
Published April 2, 2025 at 10:38 AM
Last updated April 2, 2025 at 10:38 AM
NORTH PLAINFIELD, NJ --North Plainfield celebrated a successful start to their season with a commanding victory over Franklin, ending the game with a score of 38-24.
North Plainfield’s offensive unit displayed exceptional skill, particularly through the efforts of standout players Kaelynn Hester and Layla Gutierrez. Hester led the team with an impressive total of 136 rushing yards, scoring two touchdowns, and also contributed as a quarterback with one touchdown pass thrown for 81 yards. Gutierrez complemented Hester’s performance with 88 rushing yards and one touchdown, showcasing a balanced ground attack that overwhelmed Franklin's defense.
The receiving corps also made key contributions, with Briana Louise catching a notable touchdown pass for 63 yards and Layla Gutierrez adding an 18-yard reception. Overall, North Plainfield’s offense amassed 91 passing yards and 281 rushing yards, demonstrating their ability to effectively penetrate defenses both in the air and on the ground.
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Defensively, North Plainfield excelled in their containment of Franklin. The team recorded a total of six interceptions led by Kaelynn Hester’s impressive play, which included four tackles and a pivotal interception. The defensive line, featuring contributors like Kai Green and Rhea Bellazin, was instrumental in stifling Franklin’s offensive drives, resulting in zero passing yards for their opponents.
North Plainfield's special teams unit successfully converted all extra point attempts, with Hester and Gutierrez each contributing two successful conversions.
Looking AheadWith the season only just beginning, North Plainfield has positioned itself as a formidable contender in the league, and next plays on Thursday at Summit.
Baseball Player of the Week: North Plainfield's Bennie Sokolowski wins award
Andy Mendlowitzhttps://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/sports/high-school/baseball/2025/04/18/nj-baseball-north-plainfields-bennie-sokolowski-player-of-week/83097650007/
...
Bennie Sokolowski received varsity action as a freshman and took some lumps on the mound. But he was constantly learning and improving and tweaking his approach and repertoire.
Now as a seasoned junior, things are clicking.
The savvy righthander is having a terrific start this spring which includes a no-hitter. North Plainfield fans recognized Sokolowski by voting him the MyCentralJersey.com Readers’ Choice Baseball Player of the Week.
Sokolowski hasn’t allowed an earned run in 17 innings with 22 strikeouts for the resurgent Canucks (7-1), who have already matched last year’s win total.
He threw a no-hitter with 10 strikeouts and allowed three walks in a 1-0 win over Metuchen on April 9. Sokolowski followed that up by going six innings and giving up an unearned run with five strikeouts in another strong start as North Plainfield topped J.P. Stevens 2-1 in 10 innings on Wednesday.
Sokolowski has been able to get strikeouts and ground balls by mixing in a fastball and a curveball/slider, along with a split-finger changeup. He’s found ways to succeed even when his dominant stuff isn’t there.
North Plainfield coach Steve Zurawiecki noted Sokolowski always asks questions and he’s been thriving with a consistent routine. Sokolowski, who also plays third base and first when not pitching, threw 50 1/3 varsity innings entering this season.
“It's really just a matter of growing and learning from all those experiences and just not ever giving up or ever being satisfied,” Zurawiecki said, “and just wanting to do better and then understanding what it takes to get better. It’s one thing to say, ‘Oh, I want to get better’ but he has worked tirelessly in the offseason and continues to work tirelessly during the season to get better.”
New Jersey's Fastest Growing University
Nj.comhttps://highschoolsports.nj.com/game/1030834
Game LeadersKillsIsaiah Bethea #28 North Plainfield5 #5 Harry TakyiSouth Brunswick10BlocksIsaiah Bethea #28 North Plainfield1 #5 Harry TakyiSouth Brunswick0AssistsRodrigo Mosquera #17 North Plainfield7 #11 Pranav HalaharviSouth Brunswick12 1 2 ...
Game Leaders
Kills
Isaiah Bethea #28
North Plainfield
5
#5 Harry Takyi
South Brunswick
10
Blocks
Isaiah Bethea #28
North Plainfield
1
#5 Harry Takyi
South Brunswick
0
Assists
Rodrigo Mosquera #17
North Plainfield
7
#11 Pranav Halaharvi
South Brunswick
12
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | Final | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Plainfield (5-6) | 10 | 16 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| South Brunswick (9-6) | 25 | 25 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Player Stats
North Plainfield
| Sets Played | K | B | D | A | SP | Aces | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armani Delgadillo | 2 | 0 | 0 | 8 | 1 | 0 | 2 |
| Carlos Ramos | 2 | 3 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Daniel Lopez | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Hector Sauz | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Isaiah Bethea | 2 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Ivan Lopez | 2 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Juan Osorio | 2 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Kevin Llumiquinga | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Jesus Sauz | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Rodrigo Mosquera | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 7 | 0 | 0 |
| Totals: | 19 | 15 | 1 | 16 | 15 | 0 | 2 |
South Brunswick
| Sets Played | K | B | D | A | SP | Aces | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harry Takyi | 2 | 10 | 0 | 8 | 0 | 4 | 1 |
| Saif Zirvi | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Pranav Halaharvi | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 12 | 3 | 3 |
| Vishnu Thodupunoori | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Leo DeMarco | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 1 |
| Ved Painoori | 2 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Aditya Sykam | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Krishna Akula | 2 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Hershal Mehta | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 11 | 3 | 0 |
| Aadi Thite | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Nikhil Joshi | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Totals: | 20 | 23 | 0 | 16 | 23 | 14 | 5 |
North Plainfield’s Samantha Colon is Central Jersey Softball Player of the Week:
Simeon Pincushttps://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/sports/high-school/softball/2025/04/26/nj-softball-player-of-the-week-north-plainfields-samantha-colon/83190574007/
After failing to win a divisional game in its it first two GMC campaigns, the North Plainfield High Scool softball team entered the week winners of three in a row and senior third baseman Samantha Colon had a lot to do with that.Colon went 10-for-10 through the three games last week and scored 10 runs with 12 RBIs and five extra-base hits, including a pair of home runs. She is the MyCentralJersey.com Softball Player of the Week.More: ...
After failing to win a divisional game in its it first two GMC campaigns, the North Plainfield High Scool softball team entered the week winners of three in a row and senior third baseman Samantha Colon had a lot to do with that.
Colon went 10-for-10 through the three games last week and scored 10 runs with 12 RBIs and five extra-base hits, including a pair of home runs. She is the MyCentralJersey.com Softball Player of the Week.
The senior added a couple more big games this week, including a three-hit performance Friday, with a triple, three runs and two RBIs. She’s hitting .826 this season with two doubles, three triples, two home runs and seven walks, scoring 17 times and driving in 20 runs in her first season as a fulltime starter.
“Sam has been truly just hard-working,” North Plainfield first-year coach Drew Bandola said. “She’s one of our captains. She puts in the effort every day. She’s someone who I put at third base who I knew was someone I would be able to build and work with. She’s willing to put in the time. She works really hard in the cage and you see that, her hitting is improving. Her average is extremely high, especially for the past few years, I think she’s batting above what she batted in three seasons combined. She’s just a strong plate presence and I don’t think it’s something she’s really had the opportunity to step into until this year and she’s truly taking advantage of it.”
Staff writer Simeon Pincus has been covering NJ sports since 1997, and has been on the softball beat since 1999. He can be reached atCourierSoftball@aol.com. Follow him on Twitter @SimeonPincus
Correspondent and GMC beatwriter Josh Rosenfeld contributed to this report. Follow him on Twitter/X @JoshPRosenfeld
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