DUI Lawyers in Ramsey, 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 Ramsey, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Ramsey, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Ramsey, 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 Ramsey, 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 Ramsey, 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 Old Stone House near Ramsey, 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 Ramsey, 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 Eastwick College Ramsey in Ramsey, 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 Ramsey, 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 in Ramsey, 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 Ramsey, 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 Ramsey, 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 Ramsey, NJ
Ramsey’s Anthony Petrock is the Girls Wrestling Coach of the Year, 2025
Michael Holcombe | For NJ Advance Mediahttps://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2025/03/ramseys-anthony-petrock-is-the-girls-wrestling-coach-of-the-year-2025.html
Anthony Petrock has been the coach of the Ramsey boys wrestling program for 16 years. But his association with the girls program has been significantly shorter.The team has been able to conduct duals for just three seasons and the program didn’t have its first girl wrestler until the 2021-22 season, when one of the team’s stat keepers, Reeve Faluova, expressed an interest in competing for her senior year.But in that short time, the Rams have experienced a meteoric rise. From just three wrestlers that first season, o...
Anthony Petrock has been the coach of the Ramsey boys wrestling program for 16 years. But his association with the girls program has been significantly shorter.
The team has been able to conduct duals for just three seasons and the program didn’t have its first girl wrestler until the 2021-22 season, when one of the team’s stat keepers, Reeve Faluova, expressed an interest in competing for her senior year.
But in that short time, the Rams have experienced a meteoric rise. From just three wrestlers that first season, one of whom was sophomore Paige Kirk, who would go on to be a two time state place winner, Ramsey has become one of the state’s top dual meet teams.
The Rams finished fourth at the inaugural New Jersey Girls Duals at Howell this past February and, remarkably, they did it in spite of having just 12 girls on the entire roster, which necessitated them forfeiting three weights. There was no match this season when Ramsey forfeited fewer than two weights.
There are no superstars in the current Ramsey lineup. In fact, there was not even a single state qualifier on the entire roster, as the Rams qualify through the brutally competitive North I Region.
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And yet, Ramsey took fourth at both the New Jersey Girls Duals and the Queen of the Hill Duals at Morris Hills and went 16-5 in dual meets, including wins over No. 3 Morris Hills 40-28 and No. 6 North Brunswick 36-33. By the end of the year, the Rams were ranked No. 5 in the NJ.com Top 10.
Through all of the adversity, and the grueling schedule filled with Northwest Jersey teams, the small, but competitive crew of wrestlers stuck to their winning formula to achieve success. That is why, Ramsey’s Anthony Petrock is the NJ.com Girls Wrestling Coach of the Year for 2024-25.
“I knew going in we were going to be very competitive,” Petrock said of his team. “We came off last season having wrestled Morris Hills, which is an established program, and with the exception of the two forfeits, we tied 30-30. Of course, they won the match 42-30, but we knew on the mat that we could compete. We also had a good dual with Vernon and we knew we were on the brink.”
The Rams graduated three seniors, including state finalist Kirk, and after returning the core group, Petrock was able to add some additional pieces to create this year’s squad.
For Petrock, while the sport looks the same, coaching the boys and girls teams are two entirely different endeavors. But he insists that he got maximum dedication from the girls on his roster.
“I find that coaching them is very different,” he said. “You have to treat each team as its own entity. The key to our (girls) success was attendance every day. If a girl missed a practice, it was maybe three times the entire year. So we were 12 for 12 from the start of the season to the end of February. They never missed practice. that’s big as a team.”
All the hard work paid off, as the girls worked out in the same room and followed the same rigorous practice schedule as the boys team. And when the New Jersey Girls Duals rolled around in mid-February, Petrock felt like his team was ready.
“Going into that, I felt we were really battle tested,” he said. “Throughout the year we were in the Queen of the Hill and our dual meet schedule was definitely a grind. But these girls were willing to buy into the team concept. They performed well and bought into competing for one another.
“They definitely understood the concept of, ‘I’ve got to get six, and if I can’t get it, I can’t get pinned.' Going in, they knew what their job was to match up with certain teams.”
There were some frustrating moments for Petrock and his girls this season, most notably when they lost two matches on criteria, due to the forfeits. One of those losses came early in the season to No. 10 PCIT, while the second time came in the third place match at the Queen of the Hill to No. 9 High Point. In both cases, Ramsey won six of the 10 bouts wrestled.
After muscling their way into the New Jersey girls wrestling elite this season, Petrock feels that his wrestlers have definitely raised the profile of the girls program.
“I feel like, in the school, we definitely created a buzz. And throughout the town,” Petrock said. “We hope to see a rise in numbers. We lose just one girl and return 11. If we can get six or seven new girls into the room, that would be great. But, we’re a small town and there’s only a certain number of athletes to pull from.”
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Michael Holcombe can be reached at hssports@njadvancemedia.com
Boating in NJ – Safety Tips, Know Before You Go
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/ramsey-nj/boating-nj-safety-tips-know-you-go
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Community CornerBe Prepared & Have Fun! Boating Safety Tips on ECOS, Weather, Speed and BUIBoat Safe US, Community ContributorWhen you’re operating a ves...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Be Prepared & Have Fun! Boating Safety Tips on ECOS, Weather, Speed and BUI
Boat Safe US, Community Contributor
When you’re operating a vessel., whether it’s a boat or personal water craft (jet ski, sea-doo, etc…), there are several safety rules and tips to follow. In New Jersey, you are required to take a NJ Boat Safety course. The NJSP requires anybody that operates a motorized vessel to have an NJSP issued Boat Safety Certificate. Take the class and exam with Boat Safe US, and you will also be NASBLA certified (you can use your NJ boat safety certificate in other states). See our schedule at www.BoatSafeUS.com. Before going out on your boat, make sure everything is packed and is in working order, file a float plan, have multiple communication devices that work when wet, and ensure each person has a properly fitting USCG approved life jacket.
Here are some other tips to boat safely and responsibly:
Use an engine cut-off switch (ECOS) – An engine cut-off switch is a proven safety device to stop an engine should the operator unexpectedly fall overboard. New Jersey is one of several states that require engine cut-off switches on recreational boats. The law applies to boats under 26 feet in length, unless they have an enclosed cabin or are not equipped with an ECOS. The operator of any vessel, including personal watercraft, equipped with a lanyard cut-off switch must wear the safety switch lanyard at all times when the vessel is in operation.
Watch the weather. Always know the forecast before departing on the water and check frequently during the outing. Be prepared to adjust your plans based on the weather conditions. Be smart and avoid boating in strong winds, heavy fog, thunderstorms, and any other bad weather. Dress for the weather on the water by wearing layers, a hat, etc., and always wear your life jacket. While you’re on the water, watch for signs of bad weather, like dark clouds, shifting winds, lightning and fog, for examples. Turn on navigational lights so other boaters can see you and slow down so you can maintain control of your vessel.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times. While on the water, it is critical that there is a proper lookout. Always be alert of the effects of being on the water such as sunlight, motion, waves, wind and sound. Stay clear of large vessels and watercraft that may be restricted in their ability to stop or turn. Finally, put down the cell phone and pay attention to your surroundings. Too many reported boating incidents are caused by an operator’s inattention or an inadequate lookout.
Find out what's happening in Ramseyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Know where you’re going and travel at safe speeds. Be familiar with the area, local boating speed zones, and always travel at a safe speed. Use charts to determine your course. Respect speed limits and no-wake zones and do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended speed limit for your vessel. To determine a safe speed for your boat, take into account the visibility conditions (fog, mist, rain, darkness), wind, water conditions, currents, traffic density, type of vessels in the area and their proximity.
Never boat under the influence. BUI is ILLEGAL. As per the NJSP, “You are not permitted to operate a vessel while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, a narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug”. Almost half of all boating accidents involve alcohol and one-third of all recreational boating fatalities involve alcohol. Alcohol can be more hazardous on water than on land. Many factors, such as heat, sun, wind, glare from the water, motion of the boat, and increased risk of dehydration can worsen the effects of alcohol on the body. Always designate a sober captain.
Remember, have fun by staying safe on the water. Boat responsibly! By following safety guidelines, you can fully enjoy your time on the water without putting yourself or others in danger.
See our Boat Safe US Blog for more safety tips and information: Captain's Blog | Boat Safe Us LLC
All of us at Boat Safe US hope to see you on the water!
Happy Boating!
#wearit #lifejacketsSAVElives #weloveboating #safeboating #njboating #boatsfafety
Shannon Rose Irish Pub Ramsey Honors First Responders - National Physicians Week
Julia Palmerhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/ramsey-nj/calendar/event/20250325/a28e5233-c773-4662-b82e-71689a3fc114/shannon-rose-irish-pub-ramsey-honors-first-responders-national-physicians-week
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Ramsey|Local EventTue, Mar 25, 2025 at 11:00 AMThe Shannon Rose Irish Pub, 1200 NJ-17, Ramsey, NJ, 07446The Shannon Rose Irish Pubs in Ramsey, NJ is celebrating National Physicians Week March 25th through 31st. All first responders can receive 10% off their order for...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Ramsey|Local Event
- Tue, Mar 25, 2025 at 11:00 AM
- The Shannon Rose Irish Pub, 1200 NJ-17, Ramsey, NJ, 07446
The Shannon Rose Irish Pubs in Ramsey, NJ is celebrating National Physicians Week March 25th through 31st. All first responders can receive 10% off their order for dine in or to-go orders using code: PHYSICIAN2025. Guests must show valid ID to receive this limited-time offer.
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