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DUI Lawyers in Ocean, 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 Ocean, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Ocean, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Ocean, 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 Ocean, 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 Ocean, 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 World War II Lookout Tower near Ocean, 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 Ocean, 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 Ocean County College in Ocean, 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 Ocean, 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 Ocean, 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 Ocean, 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 Ocean, 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 Ocean, NJ
Ocean County wildfire now 90% contained after rainy weekend in NJ; arson suspect expected in court
6abc Digital Staffhttps://6abc.com/post/jones-road-wildfire-now-90-contained-rainy-weekend-ocean-county-new-jersey-arson-suspect-expected-court/16329679/
OCEAN COUNTY, N.J. (WPVI) -- The Jones Road Wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, is now 90% contained, as of Monday, according to the New Jersey Fire Service.Crews are crediting the half-inch of rain that fell over the southern region of the fire over the weekend. More passing rain on Monday may also help containment eff...
OCEAN COUNTY, N.J. (WPVI) -- The Jones Road Wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, is now 90% contained, as of Monday, according to the New Jersey Fire Service.
Crews are crediting the half-inch of rain that fell over the southern region of the fire over the weekend. More passing rain on Monday may also help containment efforts, officials added.
The fire, which broke out on April 22, has burned 15,300 acres. It led to the evacuation of homes and put many in southern Ocean County at risk as flames moved closer to homes and thick smoke filled the air.
ALSO SEE: Scammers target residents near Ocean County wildfire, charging $30K to remove smoke odor
Two people have been arrested in connection with the blaze. Joseph Kling, 19, as well as a 17-year-old, have been charged with arson after allegedly setting pallets on fire and leaving it unattended. The 17-year-old's name has not been released due to being a minor.
Kling is expected to be in court on Monday. At a detention hearing last week, a judge said there is a significant concern to the community but would consider releasing Kling ahead of trial if he had a higher monitoring level.
Officials said the fire is believed to be the second-worst in the last two decades, smaller only than a 2007 blaze that burned 26 square miles.
Copyright © 2025 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.
Maps show location of Ocean County, New Jersey wildfire and current road closures
6abc Digital Staffhttps://6abc.com/post/nj-wildfire-maps-show-location-ocean-county-new-jersey-blaze-current-road-closures/16230917/
Latest on Ocean County wildfire | John Paul reports for Action News on April 23, 2025.OCEAN TWP., N.J. (WPVI) -- A raging wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, has scorched more than 15,000 acres, is sending large plumes of smoke into the sky, and has led to the closure of several roads.The blaze, dubbed the Jones Road Wil...
Latest on Ocean County wildfire | John Paul reports for Action News on April 23, 2025.
OCEAN TWP., N.J. (WPVI) -- A raging wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, has scorched more than 15,000 acres, is sending large plumes of smoke into the sky, and has led to the closure of several roads.
The blaze, dubbed the Jones Road Wildfire, began around 9:45 a.m. Tuesday and was 50% contained as of Wednesday afternoon.
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service released a map showing the containment area around the blaze:
WILDFIRE UPDATE: Jones Road Wildfire - Ocean & Lacey Townships, Ocean CountyNew Jersey Forest Fire Service continues to make progress containing a wildfire burning in Ocean & Lacey townships, Ocean County.SIZE & CONTAINMENT???? 15,100 acres ???? 50% contained pic.twitter.com/QZTcE32FFZ
— New Jersey Forest Fire Service (@njdepforestfire) April 24, 2025
It began in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management area in Barnegat Township and has since spread to both Ocean and Lacey townships.
Officials said Thursday morning that Route 532, which had been shut down due to the fire, has now reopened.
However, several other roads remain closed in the area.
-Bryant Road is closed between Wells Mills Road (Rt. 532) and Rt. 539
-Jones Road is closed between Rt. 532 and Bryant Road
Parts of the Garden State Parkway and Route 9 were closed Tuesday because of the smoke billowing across the area. Both highways have since reopened.
Officials said Wednesday that approximately 1,320 structures were threatened but said no residential structures have been lost. However, one commercial building, as well as multiple outbuildings and vehicles have been destroyed by the fire.
This could end up being the largest wildfire in New Jersey in 20 years, the Forest Fire Service said.
No injuries have been reported. The cause of the fire is not yet known.
Copyright © 2025 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.
2nd person arrested in connection with Jones Road Wildfire in Ocean County, NJ
6abc Digital Staffhttps://6abc.com/post/jones-road-wildfire-update-2nd-teen-arrested-connection-fire-ocean-county-new-jersey/16301429/
OCEAN COUNTY, N.J. (WPVI) -- Authorities in New Jersey announced Friday that a second teenager has been arrested in connection with the Jones Road Wildfire in Ocean County.A 17-year-old was taken into custody on Thursday and charged with arson, aggravated arson, and hindering apprehension in connection with the fire that started ...
OCEAN COUNTY, N.J. (WPVI) -- Authorities in New Jersey announced Friday that a second teenager has been arrested in connection with the Jones Road Wildfire in Ocean County.
A 17-year-old was taken into custody on Thursday and charged with arson, aggravated arson, and hindering apprehension in connection with the fire that started in Ocean Township on April 22.
In addition to the 17-year-old, Joseph Kling, 19, was previously charged in connection with the same incident.
The news of the second arrest came while Kling was having a detention hearing.
Prosecutors say that Kling picked up 10 to 20 wooden pallets from a recycling center and drove them into the woods, and used gasoline on two pallets to start the fire, and then eventually the rest of the pallets.
Friends told investigators that when Kling and friends left the pit of burning pallets in the woods, they were still glowing.
During the hearing, prosecutors said social media messages involving Kling and his friends contained an admission of starting the fire.
The judge continued the detention hearing until Monday morning, saying that there is significant concern to the community but would consider releasing Kling ahead of trial if he had a higher monitoring level.
Authorities say the fire is 80% contained but is still burning more than 10 days later. The blaze has destroyed more than 15,000 acres and destroyed an awning business.
It also led to the evacuation of homes and put many in southern Ocean County at risk as flames moved closer to homes and thick smoke filled the air.
MORE | Scammers target residents near Ocean County wildfire, charging $30K to remove smoke odor
Officials said the fire is believed to be the second-worst in the last two decades, smaller only than a 2007 blaze that burned 26 square miles.
In the meantime, police in Lacey Township are now warning residents about a scam connected to the fire. They say a company is claiming they can remediate the air and remove the smell of smoke from homes and they are charging up to $30,000 for services, but claim most will be covered by insurance.
They are also asking residents to sign paperwork for a loan. Police say the main target of the scam is senior citizens.
NJ wildfire suspect appears in court 1 week after fire started
Ted Greenberghttps://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/jones-road-wildfire-suspect-joseph-kling-court-update-ocean-county/4172241/
Firefighters are still dealing with the massive wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, one week after it started.Officials said that the Jones Road Wildfire is now 75% contained as ...
Firefighters are still dealing with the massive wildfire in Ocean County, New Jersey, one week after it started.
Officials said that the Jones Road Wildfire is now 75% contained as 19-year-old Joseph Kling shares his side of the story for the first time since he was charged with arson.
Kling appeared virtually in court on Tuesday, April 29 as the Jones Road Wildfire burns through more than 15,000 acres in Lacey and Ocean townships.
A hearing on whether Kling should stay in jail was postponed until Friday, May 2 as his lawyer said that Kling disputes the allegation that he set wooden pallets ablaze.
"Mr. Kling, upon being brought into custody, was very clear that he did not ignite this fire," his attorney Joseph Compitello said.
In the area where authorities said the wildfire started from a bonfire are signs advising that fires are prohibited. The ground is black and the earth is scorched well beyond it towards the north and east.
According to Kling's attorney, Kling was at the bonfire, but he was there with many other people.
"There was at least four or five other carloads of individuals at this location. This, this, this bonfire is apparently somewhat common," Compitello said. "There's going to be culpability to be extended to others, that for whatever reason, law enforcement hasn't moved forward.”
Residents are grateful to the crews working long hours to get the fire fully contained and protecting their homes.
"Thank you firefighters," Ocean Township resident Dave said. "These guys put out a lot of effort for all of us, and the amazing job they did.”
Meanwhile, the guys at Liberty Door and Awning in Lacey Township are still getting creative with where to store materials one week after their warehouse was burned to the ground.
"It's fluid, it's, you know, we got a lot of got a lot of people helping us out right now, offering support. We're just waiting for something to come through concrete," Bob Nosti, of Liberty Door and Awning, told NBC10.
Day 3: Jones Road Wildfire continues to burn through 23 sq. miles of NJ forest
Dan Alexanderhttps://nj1015.com/ocean-county-wildfire-update-2/
The Jones Road Wildfire burns for a third day in Ocean County for a third day.The NJ Forest Fire Service says the wildfire has burned through more than 23 square miles (15,000 acres) in Barnegat, Lacey and Ocean township as of Thursday afternoon and is 50% contained.????8 structures are threatened by the fire but all roadways have been reopened.???? ...
The Jones Road Wildfire burns for a third day in Ocean County for a third day.
The NJ Forest Fire Service says the wildfire has burned through more than 23 square miles (15,000 acres) in Barnegat, Lacey and Ocean township as of Thursday afternoon and is 50% contained.
????8 structures are threatened by the fire but all roadways have been reopened.
???? The Ocean County Sheriff's Office cautioned about air quality, saying “smoke will continue to permeate the area.” Emergency personnel will be on site for the next few days.
“This is still a very active fire,” New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette said Wednesday. “As we continue to get this under full control the expectation is that the number of acres will grow and will grow in a place that is unpopulated.”
Light winds out of the south will blow smoke northward into wooded areas, according to NJ 101.5 Chief Meteorologist Dan Zarrow.
Some good news
There are glimmers of good news and a return to normal as largest wildfire in New Jersey since 2007 when 26 square miles (16,640 acres) were torched
No additional evacuations were ordered in Ocean County where 5,000 people evacuated on their own or involuntarily. JCP&L brought in additional crews Wednesday to inspect wires and equipment and has fully restored power to all 25,000 customers who were left without power.
Scouting America Jersey Shore Council had good news about their Joseph A. Citta Scout Reservation at Brookville in Barnegat. It is made up of nine campgrounds available year-round.
"We were very fortunate that the wildfire that is still burning in our back yards shifted away from camp and we are out of danger. We didn't sustain any damage, aside from heavy smoke conditions. These situations are fluid and can change quickly so we'll let you know if anything changes, but for now, we're okay," the camp wrote on its Facebook page.
The JBJ Soul Kitchen is offering a "free, nourishing 3-course meal" to anyone impacted by the fire and to first responders at its location on Hooper Avenue in Toms River and the pop up at the township's branch of the Ocean County Library. The offer is good during regular business hours.
"Whether you need support or simply a comforting space to gather, our doors are open," the restuarant wrote on its Facebook page.
(Includes material Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
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