DUI Lawyers in North Wildwood, 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 Wildwood, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in North Wildwood, 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 Wildwood, 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 Wildwood, 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 Wildwood, 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 North Wildwood, 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 North Wildwood, 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 North Wildwood, 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 Wildwood, 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 Wildwood, NJ
Families pack Wildwoods for Memorial Day Weekend
Beccah Hendricksonhttps://6abc.com/post/families-pack-wildwoods-memorial-day-weekend/16534364/
"Watch the tram car please" could be heard up and down the boardwalk as families ate ice cream, rode the Ferris wheel, and played arcade games."I have been here my whole entire life and it's the first time in a long time I've seen this many families," said Wildwood Mayor Ernie Troiano.Troiano is happy about that and said there have been a few issues with the 10 p.m. boardwalk curfew for kids so far."Any time it's a safe, quiet evening and the course of the day here, that's a win," said Troia...
"Watch the tram car please" could be heard up and down the boardwalk as families ate ice cream, rode the Ferris wheel, and played arcade games.
"I have been here my whole entire life and it's the first time in a long time I've seen this many families," said Wildwood Mayor Ernie Troiano.
Troiano is happy about that and said there have been a few issues with the 10 p.m. boardwalk curfew for kids so far.
"Any time it's a safe, quiet evening and the course of the day here, that's a win," said Troiano.
Another win is the return of iced coffee carts on the North Wildwood beach.
"It was a little slow in the morning but it picked up a little bit. Turned out to be pretty good," said Sean Tippin from Cinnaminson.
Workers trudged through packed beaches; the windy conditions could not keep the crowds away.
The water was quite cold but the beach provided plenty of entertainment for these young architects.
"Like canals kind of. And like tiny sand castles on water," said 9-year-old William Karl.
On the water, beach patrol kept a lookout for the brave few who chose to swim. Lifeguards do have a warning for the start of summer.
"Only swim on guarded beaches and only when the lifeguards are on duty. A lot of times after Memorial Day weekend, people stay down the shore. We're not guarding everyday," North Wildwood Beach Patrol Chief Bill Ciavarelli.
Those full patrols begin in mid-June, but the summer season is officially underway down the shore.
"Happy Memorial Day!" Kids on the beach cheered.
Tara Kitchen Says Goodbye to Wildwood, Chef U Takes Over the Space
Mike Gillhttps://973espn.com/tara-kitchen-wildwood-closes-chef-u-opening/
As we wrote about back in April, popular Moroccan restaurant Tara's Kitchen of Wildwood announced they were closing their doors with a heartfelt message to their patrons.Tara Kitchen Says Farewell After Four SummersDear Wildwoods Community,Thank you for welcoming us and sup...
As we wrote about back in April, popular Moroccan restaurant Tara's Kitchen of Wildwood announced they were closing their doors with a heartfelt message to their patrons.
Tara Kitchen Says Farewell After Four Summers
Dear Wildwoods Community,Thank you for welcoming us and supporting our restaurant. As our family and business needs have evolved, we have made the decision to close our doors. We are deeply grateful for the memories we've shared and the connections we've made. Thank you for being part of our journey.
The popular restaurant, which opened in 2021, closed after four summers at the Jersey Shore at 5209 Pacific Avenue in Wildwood, offering an alternative to the pizza and boardwalk food, bringing something different and unique to the resort town.
A New Concept: Chef U At The Beach Moves In
Well, Tara's Kitchen might not be there, but there will be a new gourmet takeout concept coming to the Jersey Shore in Cape May County at 5209 Pacific Avenue with the opening of Chef U At The Beach, offering family dinners to take home after a day at the beach or walking the boardwalk in Wildwood.
What to Expect From Chef U’s Menu and Services
Chef U also offers hands-on experience cooking classes, catering, and charcuterie boards, and makes homemade meals, made from scratch, with fresh ingredients.
Here is a look at some of the things you can order from the menu.
They stress that their goal is to bring families back to the kitchen table and have your own version of “Sunday Dinner” with them preparing and cooking the meal for you.
Will you miss Tara Kitchen? Let us know your favorite memory — and if you’ll be checking out Chef U this summer!
Best Pizzerias in Wildwood Ranked From Local Favorites to Hidden Gems
Josh Hennighttps://973espn.com/wildwood-nj-pizza-ranked/
One of the most popular Shore Towns in New Jersey is off Exit 4 on the Garden State Parkway. The Wildwoods have been a destination town for South Jersey locals and northeastern vacationers for over 120 years.With their world-famous boardwalk ("Watch the Tramcar Please") and free beaches, The Wildwoods have so much to offer beyond just the summer months. Fun fact: the reason people refer to the South Jersey Coastal Community as "The Wildwoods" is because there are four municipalities that comprise what most call Wil...
One of the most popular Shore Towns in New Jersey is off Exit 4 on the Garden State Parkway. The Wildwoods have been a destination town for South Jersey locals and northeastern vacationers for over 120 years.
With their world-famous boardwalk ("Watch the Tramcar Please") and free beaches, The Wildwoods have so much to offer beyond just the summer months. Fun fact: the reason people refer to the South Jersey Coastal Community as "The Wildwoods" is because there are four municipalities that comprise what most call Wildwood:
-North Wildwood -The City of Wildwood -West Wildwood -Wildwood Crest
Since Yelp Users seem to hate New Jersey Pizza, I have been doing my own research for what the best Pizza parlors are in South Jersey. After discovering who has the best pizza in Atlantic City, I wanted to head south and find out who has the best pizza in The Wildwoods.
*Rankings are based on Google Reviews and Google Analytics:
*Tony's New York Pizza (4.7 stars)One of the newest pizzerias in South Jersey has already become one of the most popular. Bringing New York Style Pizza straight from Brooklyn, this family-owned pizza shop is well-known for their fresh ingredients and good vibes. Google Reviewers call Tony's New York Pizza "Awesome" and "Absolutely the best in Wildwood".
Opening day for the 2025 Summer season for Tony's New York Pizza is May 23rd.
*Crazy Junky (4.6 stars)Just north of the Wildwood Convention Center on the Boardwalk is Crazy Junky. Formerly the location of Angelo's, this new pizzeria that has been described by Google Reviewers as "high-quality ingredients" and the thin crust pizza is "highly recommended".
*Mack's Pizza (4.5 stars)One of the most famous pizza parlors in South Jersey, Mack's Pizza has been a favorite for locals and vacationers for over 60 years. With two locations on the Wildwood Boardwalk, one north and one south of Morey's Piers, Mack's Pizza has been described on Google Reviews as "the perfect blend of cheeses with a tasty sauce and thin crust" along with "perfect light crust and homemade sauce"
*Sam's Pizza Palace (4.4 stars)Almost 70 years ago, Sam's Pizza was one of the first pizzerias to set the standard for Boardwalk Pizza at the Jersey Shore. With a thicker crust and less sweet sauce, Sam's has set itself apart from the other Boardwalk Pizza Shops for decades. Multiple Google Reviews say Sam's Pizza has "very good cheese" and "so delicious".
*Piro's Pizza (4.5 stars)This throwback-style pizza parlor located at the corner of Youngs Avenue and New Jersey Avenue is best known for their high-quality crust and fresh cheese pizza pies. Piro's Pizza has been described by Google Reviewers as "Very good", "delicious", and "quality is superb"
*Poppi's Brick Oven Pizza (4.4 stars)You will find some of the best Brick Oven Pizza in Wildwood at Poppi's on New Jersey Avenue. Even though they have more great food options than just pizza on their menu, Poppi's Pizza is "full of flavor" and offers "great Neapolitan pizza" according to Google Reviews.
*Santucci's Original Square Pizza (4.2 stars)Located down the street from Gateway 26 on 26th Avenue, Santucci's is well known for their high-quality sauce and unique style of pie. Google Reviewers describe Santucci's Pizza as "very tasty" and "The Dough and sauce combination is fantastic".
*Franconi's Pizza (4.2 stars)On the Wildwood Boardwalk to the north of Morey's Piers is another popular pizza parlor known for their fast service and large slices. Google Reviewers say Franconi's Pizza has "Delicious sauce" and "One of the best pizzas I ever had".
Hereford Inlet to Cape May Inlet, NJ
Philadelphia District & Marine Design Center https://www.nap.usace.army.mil/Missions/Factsheets/Fact-Sheet-Article-View/Article/490818/hereford-inlet-to-cape-may-inlet-nj/
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS: NJ-2APPROPRIATION / PHASE: Construction GeneralBUSINESS PROGRAM: Flood and Coastal Storm Damage ReductionAUTHORITY: Disaster Relief Appropriations Act of 2013 (Public Law 113-2) & WRDA 2016, Section 1401(3)LOCATION The study area includes Five Mile Island, located on the Atlantic Coast of New Jersey between Hereford and Cape May Inlets in Cape May County.DESCRIPTION: The project...
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS: NJ-2
APPROPRIATION / PHASE: Construction General
BUSINESS PROGRAM: Flood and Coastal Storm Damage Reduction
AUTHORITY: Disaster Relief Appropriations Act of 2013 (Public Law 113-2) & WRDA 2016, Section 1401(3)
LOCATION The study area includes Five Mile Island, located on the Atlantic Coast of New Jersey between Hereford and Cape May Inlets in Cape May County.
DESCRIPTION: The project area consists of the municipalities of North Wildwood, Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and Lower Township. These municipalities are vulnerable to storm damage all year round from a combination of hurricanes and nor’easters. The project area will be restricted to the beachfront and tapered at the southern and northern ends at Hereford Inlet and the USFW/Coast Guard properties. The Non-Federal sponsor is the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).
The City of North Wildwood has been experiencing significant erosion of its berm and dune, especially along the northern sections of the municipality’s oceanfront, since the 1990’s; what was once the largest beach in the state, has experienced approximately 1,100 feet of shoreline retreat, most of which has occurred during that time. In contrast to North Wildwood, sand accretion in Wildwood and Wildwood Crest historically has caused extensive maintenance problems with their storm water management system and creates public health hazards on the beaches. The excess sand clogs storm-water outfalls which causes associated interior flooding and creates pools of stagnant water which produces unhealthy beach conditions. The excessive infilling at the seaward extents of the outfalls traps rainwater and requires the municipalities to regularly excavate the ends of the pipes to allow for adequate drainage. Periodically, these excavation efforts have to occur during stormy periods with higher wave activity where access becomes more problematic. Once the trapped rainwater is released, the subsequent high-volume discharge of impounded storm water can also cause spikes in poor water quality.
The recommended plan includes a berm and dune system along the Atlantic Coast for the communities of North Wildwood, Wildwood, Wildwood Crest & Lower Township. The total project length is approximately 25,000 feet with a dune elevation of 16 feet NAVD88 and berm elevation of 6.5 feet NAVD88. The project would be accomplished by backpassing sand from those areas along the project in Wildwood and Wildwood Crest that have an excess accumulation. The project includes periodic nourishment.
The Project Partnership Agreement was executed with the NJDEP in 2017 and design plans are 65% complete. The recommended plan includes a berm and dune system along the Atlantic oceanfront for the communities of North Wildwood, Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, and Lower Twp. The total project length is approximately 25,000 linear feet, with a berm of varying widths at elevation 6.5 feet NAVD88 and a dune with crest elevation at 16 feet NAVD88 along the entire length of the project. The project would be accomplished by backpassing sand from those areas along the project in Wildwood and Wildwood Crest that have an excess accumulation of sand.
STATUS: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection continue to work towards construction of this critical project. Prior to proceeding to construct the project, the Federal government needs permission from the appropriate landowners in the form of Real Estate easements. NJDEP is actively pursuing the appropriate easements on approximately 124 individual parcels. USACE and NJDEP also continue to work with the local municipalities to address several design elements that need to be resolved prior to construction. The earliest date for construction is estimated at Fall 2026 subject to the resolution of the above-mentioned items.
PROJECT GOALS: The purpose of this project is to provide coastal storm risk management benefits along 5-mile Island. These benefits include reduced risk of damage to homes, businesses, roads and infrastructure. The project includes construction of a dune and elevated berm system along the entire length of the project. The project is eligible for periodic nourishments at four-year intervals.
BACKPASSING TECHNOLOGY: Provides high quality sand that is currently present on the beaches in the Wildwoods as a renewable alternative to offshore borrow areas, , reduces beach maintenance, and has lower emissions than traditional dredging.
SPONSOR: New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
DATE OF AMENDED FEASIBILITY COST SHARE AGREEMENT: 28 October 2013
CIVIL WORKS REVIEW BOARD: 21 August 2014
DATE OF PROJECT PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT: 17 Jan 2017
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