DUI Lawyers in Point Pleasant, 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 Point Pleasant, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Point Pleasant, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Point Pleasant, 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 Point Pleasant, 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 Point Pleasant, 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 Point Pleasant, 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 Point Pleasant, 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 Point Pleasant, 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
Get Help Now!
Get in touch with us now! or Call us today to get a free quote!


DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Point Pleasant, 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.
Hear What Our Clients Have to Say
Send a Message
Latest News in Point Pleasant, NJ
Moberg’s gem powers Point Pleasant Beach past Delaware Valley in CJG1 semifinals
Reed Beckerhttps://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2025/06/mobergs-gem-powers-point-pleasant-beach-past-delaware-valley-in-cjg1-semifinals.html
Bennett Moberg was at the end of a long season when the junior pitcher took the mound for Point Pleasant Beach in its most important game of the campaign so far.Moberg had some ups and downs on the mound this year and also has been dealing with back issues since the offseason, but he knew his team was counting on him to come through.Complete Box Score »Moberg delivered for his team, allowing just two hits as he came within on...
Bennett Moberg was at the end of a long season when the junior pitcher took the mound for Point Pleasant Beach in its most important game of the campaign so far.
Moberg had some ups and downs on the mound this year and also has been dealing with back issues since the offseason, but he knew his team was counting on him to come through.
Moberg delivered for his team, allowing just two hits as he came within one pitch of throwing a complete game shutout.
Moberg struck out eight and issued four walks in second-seeded Point Pleasant Beach’s 5-0 victory over sixth-seeded Delaware Valley in the semifinals of the NJSIAA Central Jersey, Group 1 playoffs in Point Pleasant.
Moberg’s performance was even more impressive considering that, in his 16 outings this season, he had pitched past the third inning just three times and had never lasted more than five innings.
“My slider was deadly today, and they just could not touch it. My spin rate has been higher lately, and staying out of my head has been key to my success,” Moberg said after the game.
Point Pleasant Beach coach Angelo Flore said a couple quick innings and a strong defense behind him aided Moberg’s effort.
“He had two good innings where he had nine pitches and seven pitches, and that was able to help him push further into the game,” Flore said. “He made that pitch when he needed to or relied on his defense, which also did an outstanding job today.”
Point Pleasant Beach (20-7) is looking to repeat as Central Jersey, Group 1 champion for the fourth season in a row. It advances to the final on Thursday, when it will be on the road against top-seeded Middlesex, which advanced with a 10-0 victory over fourth-seeded Shore.
Delaware Valley entered this contest having upset third-seeded Metuchen, 5-1, in the quarterfinals last Friday to earn its first semifinals appearance since 2016.
Point Pleasant Beach began the bottom of the first inning with four straight hits.
It began with a leadoff single to right field by Tommy Conroy. Brody Powers followed with an RBI double that scored Conroy, giving Point Pleasant Beach a 1-0 lead. The offense continued with another RBI single from Noah Banick. Danny Lubach rounded out the scoring in the inning with an RBI single to make it 3-0.
Point Pleasant Beach added two more runs in the bottom of the third inning with a wild pitch that scored two runs, thanks to a throwing error by the catcher after retrieving the ball.
Delaware Valley had multiple scoring chances but was unable to get runners home.
In the third inning, after Danny Cialone was hit by a pitch to lead off the inning, then Gabriel Miller drew a one-out walk to give Delaware Valley runners on first and second. Jimmy Hintenach then hit a line drive right to Powers, who doubled off Cialone at second base to end the scoring chance.
Delaware Valley left a total of seven runners on base.
Banick led the Point Pleasant offense by going 2-for-3 with a double, an RBI and two runs scored. Powers went 1-for-2 with an RBI and two runs scored.
Coach Fiore was proud of his offense and said, “One through nine, our offense is a solid roster. The guy batting eight is as good as the guy batting leadoff. One of the things that we’re really good at is that we effectively put the ball in play all the time.”
Jimmy Hintenach and Chris Cialone recorded the lone hits for Delaware Valley (11-12). Brady Reardon pitched a complete game, allowing five runs (four earned) on seven hits while striking out eight and walking two.
“We had opportunities with guys on base but couldn’t finish. Point Pleasant Beach pitched well, and they had a good first inning and took advantage of it,” Delaware Valley coach Marty White said.
“We grew a lot as a program throughout the season. We got better towards the end and knocked off a very good Metuchen team. We got to the semis and we competed. For the guys coming back. that’s something to build off of.”
Moberg held a no-hitter going into the fourth inning before giving up a leadoff single to Delaware Valley’s Chris Cialone.
Moberg had recorded two outs in the seventh inning before walking Danny Cialone on a full count, with the maximum pitch count of 110 being reached on the final ball.
Noah Banick then came in from the bullpen to record a strikeout for the final out of the game.
Moberg was thankful for getting the chance to deliver such a strong outing at this stage of the season.
“It’s great that my coaches trust me enough,” he said. “It’s a combination of my teammates and coaches trusting me, along with the work I’ve put in throughout practice and the offseason.”
N.J. judge suspended after ignoring warnings about his social media behavior
Colleen Murphyhttps://www.nj.com/ocean/2025/06/nj-judge-suspended-after-ignoring-warnings-about-his-social-media-behavior.html
A New Jersey municipal judge has been suspended by the Supreme Court for two months without pay after a state ethics panel found his personal Facebook activity crossed the line into judicial misconduct.Judge Robert M. LePore, who s...
A New Jersey municipal judge has been suspended by the Supreme Court for two months without pay after a state ethics panel found his personal Facebook activity crossed the line into judicial misconduct.
Judge Robert M. LePore, who serves part-time in Point Pleasant Beach, was formally disciplined for publicly supporting law enforcement, political candidates, and local businesses on social media — behavior the New Jersey Supreme Court said undermined the appearance of impartiality expected from the bench.
Along with the suspension, LePore must complete in-person training on systemic and implicit bias before returning to court.
According to a formal complaint filed by the Advisory Committee on Judicial Conduct, LePore’s Facebook activity included public endorsements, affiliations with law enforcement and political figures, and connections to private businesses. These activities raised concerns about his impartiality, the complaint said.
The complaint noted that despite being warned about the ethical implications, LePore failed to remove the content.
LePore “liked” a Facebook group that criticized New Jersey’s bail reform laws, a system he helps enforce, and he maintained visible ties to local attorneys, realtors, and political candidates on the platform.
The committee said these actions created the appearance of bias and could lead the public to question whether certain individuals or groups had influence over the judge.
The New Jersey Supreme Court agreed that LePore broke several judicial rules, including ones that require judges to stay neutral, avoid improper behavior, and protect the court’s reputation.
In addition to the two-month unpaid suspension, which will begin June 4, 2025, the court ordered LePore to complete at least four hours of in-person training on systemic and implicit bias before returning to the bench.
LePore did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Jersey Shore Beach Report: Welcome To The Summer Of 2025
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/pointpleasant/jersey-shore-beach-report-welcome-summer-2025
Summer may not officially start for a few more weeks, but we know you're in a beach frame of mind. Here's the Memorial Day weekend forecast.Karen Wall, Patch StaffJERSEY SHORE, NJ — Welcome to Memorial Day weekend and the summer of 2025. The weather may feel more like April than late May, but we know you're itching to hit the beach.With that in mind, here is a look from Patch at the beach forecast for Memorial Day wee...
Summer may not officially start for a few more weeks, but we know you're in a beach frame of mind. Here's the Memorial Day weekend forecast.
Karen Wall, Patch Staff
JERSEY SHORE, NJ — Welcome to Memorial Day weekend and the summer of 2025. The weather may feel more like April than late May, but we know you're itching to hit the beach.
With that in mind, here is a look from Patch at the beach forecast for Memorial Day weekend.
The National Weather Service is calling for chilly temperatures to kick off the season, so be sure to bring a sweatshirt or jacket if you're going to the beach or walking the boardwalk. The good news is it's expected to be sunny during the day all weekend, so perhaps that will warm things a bit more than expected.
Rip current risk is moderate this weekend, so those who might want to take an early dip in the ocean need to be mindful of the dangers. The water is still very cold — in the 50s — and that brings added risks. Be safe this weekend.
Related: Rip Currents In NJ: What To Look For, How To Survive Them
Find out what's happening in Point Pleasantfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
JELLYFISHFrom the state Department of Environmental Protection and the New Jersey Jellyspotters
It may seem like it's too cold for jellyfish already, but that is not the case.
Paul Bologna, the Montclair State biology professor and jellyfish expert, said clinging jellyfish already have been found in shallow waters.
Bologna, in a post in New Jersey Jellyspotters Facebook group, did not say where the jellyfish have been found, but the non-native species that delivers a powerful sting inhabits shallow water.
The state Department of Environmental Protection and scientists at Montclair State University maintain a map showing where clinging jellyfish have been confirmed. It has not been updated yet for 2025 but in the past the clinging jellyfish have been found in the Metedeconk River, upper Barnegat Bay and at scattered points in the Cape May area.
A few lion's mane jellyfish also have been seen in Barnegat Bay, according to posts in New Jersey Jellyspotters.
A reminder about how to treat jellyfish stings:
After, there are various ways to deal with the sting depending upon the severity. Over-the-counter pain medicine, Benadryl type OTC medicines, calamine lotion for itching.
Read up on ways you can address the issues with jellyfish in the bays: 'Stop The Sting' Jellyfish Study Offers Hope For NJ Bay, Lagoon Users
THE FORECASTFrom the National Weather Service
Friday: A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 5 p.m. disspating after 7 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 66. West wind 10 to 15 mph. At night, mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 51. West wind 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.
Saturday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 65. West wind around 15 mph. In the evening mostly clear skies and a low around 52. West wind 10 to 15 mph.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 67. West wind 10 to 15 mph. Some clouds move in during the evening, with a low temperature around 53.
Memorial Day: Sunny, with a high near 66 and some clouds in the evening with a low around 56.
Tuesday-Thursday: Highs in the mid-60s for the rest of the week, with rain possible on Wednesday. Sunny skies are predicted for Thursday.
Related: 2025 Jersey Shore Beach Guide: Beach Badges, Parking
SURF FORECAST From the National Weather Service
Friday
Rip Current Risk: ModerateSurf Height: 1-2 feetThunderstorm Potential: NoneUV Index: ModerateWater Temperature: Mid-50sSunrise: 5:32 a.m.Sunset: 8:13 p.m.
Saturday
Rip Current Risk: ModerateSurf Height: 1-2 feetThunderstorm Potential: NoneUV Index: ModerateWater Temperature: Mid-50sSunrise: 5:31 a.m.Sunset: 8:14 p.m.
Sunday
Rip Current Risk: ModerateSurf Height: 1-2 feetThunderstorm Potential: NoneUV Index: ModerateWater Temperature: Mid-50sSunrise: 5:30 a.m.Sunset: 8:15 p.m.
Monday
Rip Current Risk: ModerateSurf Height: 1-2 feetThunderstorm Potential: NoneUV Index: ModerateWater Temperature: Mid-50sSunrise: 5:29 a.m.Sunset: 8:16 p.m.
TIDES From NOAA Tide Predictions
Sandy Hook (at Fort Hancock)
Long Branch Fishing Pier
Belmar
Manasquan Inlet/Point Pleasant Beach
Seaside Heights
Island Beach State Park (Sedge Islands)
Atlantic City (Ocean)
Wildwood Crest
Cape May Point, Atlantic Ocean
Disclaimer:

Service Areas
