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DUI Lawyers in West Milford, 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 West Milford, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in West Milford, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in West Milford, 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 West Milford, 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 West Milford, 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 Wallisch Homestead near West Milford, 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 West Milford, 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 Sensory Garden and Play in West Milford, 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 West Milford, 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 Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Milford, 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 West Milford, 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 West Milford, 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 West Milford, NJ
West Milford defeats Hawthorne Christian to advance in PCT - Baseball recap
N.J. High School Sports Deskhttps://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2025/05/west-milford-defeatshawthorne-christian-to-advance-in-pct-baseball-recap.html
Chase Tyburczy struck out nine batters and contributed offensively as fifth-seeded West Milford defeated 13th-seeded Hawthorne Christian 11-1 in five innings in the first round of the Passaic County Tournament in West Milford.Complete Box Score »Tyburczy was dominant on the mound, allowing just one run on four hits while walking two in a complete game effort. The pitcher also went 1-for-2 at the plate with two RBI, three runs scored...
Chase Tyburczy struck out nine batters and contributed offensively as fifth-seeded West Milford defeated 13th-seeded Hawthorne Christian 11-1 in five innings in the first round of the Passaic County Tournament in West Milford.
Tyburczy was dominant on the mound, allowing just one run on four hits while walking two in a complete game effort. The pitcher also went 1-for-2 at the plate with two RBI, three runs scored and two stolen bases.
The Highlanders (11-6) jumped out to a commanding 5-0 lead in the first inning and never looked back against the Defenders (5-9).
West Milford’s offense was efficient throughout the game, adding a run in the second inning before scoring three more in the fourth and two in the fifth.
Kyle Schwarzlow and Chris Timmins each drove in two runs for the Highlanders, with Timmins also swiping two bases. Sean Conklin had a perfect day at the plate, going 2-for-2 with an RBI and a walk.
Jonas Paulino contributed to West Milford’s aggressive baserunning attack with two stolen bases while scoring twice and driving in a run.
For Hawthorne Christian, Joey Betz went 2-for-2 at the plate, while Jonmarcus Rodriguez doubled and scored the Defenders’ lone run in the fifth inning.
West Milford will next face fourth-seeded Wayne Hills in the quarterfinals of the Passaic County Tournament.
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Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.
West Milford defeats Wayne Valley in OT - Boys lacrosse recap
N.J. High School Sports Deskhttps://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2025/05/west-milford-defeats-wayne-valley-in-ot-boys-lacrosse-recap.html
Ryan Czeczuga scored three goals in West Milford’s 9-8 overtime win over Wayne Valley in West Milford.Complete Box Score »West Milford (5-6) overcame a strong start by Wayne Valley (2-8) to secure the victory.The Highlanders trailed 3-1 after the first quarter but dominated the second period with six goals to take a 7-5 lead into halftime.Wayne Valley battled back in the fourth quarter, scoring three goals to tie...
Ryan Czeczuga scored three goals in West Milford’s 9-8 overtime win over Wayne Valley in West Milford.
West Milford (5-6) overcame a strong start by Wayne Valley (2-8) to secure the victory.
The Highlanders trailed 3-1 after the first quarter but dominated the second period with six goals to take a 7-5 lead into halftime.
Wayne Valley battled back in the fourth quarter, scoring three goals to tie the game at 8-8 and force overtime.
Tyler Acanfrio was outstanding in goal for West Milford, making 23 saves against 34 shots on goal from Wayne Valley. His performance was crucial in keeping the Highlanders in the game.
Jake Kelshaw contributed two goals and an assist for West Milford, while Dean Lombardo added two goals. Brendan Coscia collected a team-high nine ground balls.
For Wayne Valley, Michael Burke and Brayden Rude led the offensive effort with two goals and two assists each. Brayden Dunne also scored twice for the Indians.
Wayne Valley goalkeeper Dylan Belot recorded nine saves.
West Milford’s balanced attack proved to be the difference, with five different players finding the back of the net.
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Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.
W Milford Twp, NJ – Injury Crash Closes Rte 23 NB at Old Ridge Rd
MetroLaw | Robert A. Solomon, P.C.https://metrolaw.com/w-milford-twp-nj-injury-crash-closes-rte-23-nb-at-old-ridge-rd/
West Milford Twp, NJ (April 8, 2025) – An injury crash involving two cars occurred on April 8 in West Milford Township, prompting a full closure of Route 23 northbound at the intersection with CR 699/Old Ridge Road. The incident took place at approximately 7:00 p.m., causing major traffic delays and requiring emergency response from multiple local agencies.According to preliminary reports from local authorities, the two-car collision resulted in at least one person sustaining injuries. Emergency medical services responded...
West Milford Twp, NJ (April 8, 2025) – An injury crash involving two cars occurred on April 8 in West Milford Township, prompting a full closure of Route 23 northbound at the intersection with CR 699/Old Ridge Road. The incident took place at approximately 7:00 p.m., causing major traffic delays and requiring emergency response from multiple local agencies.
According to preliminary reports from local authorities, the two-car collision resulted in at least one person sustaining injuries. Emergency medical services responded swiftly to the scene, providing on-site treatment before transporting the injured victim to a nearby hospital. The extent of the injuries has not yet been disclosed.
Firefighters assisted in the extraction of occupants from the vehicles involved and worked to clear the roadway. Law enforcement officers managed the traffic detour and secured the scene while investigations into the cause of the crash were initiated. All lanes of Rte 23 NB remained closed for several hours as crews cleared debris and authorities conducted their preliminary assessment.
Our thoughts are with everyone involved in this accident. We hope for a full recovery for those who were injured.
Injury Car Accidents in West Milford Township
West Milford Township, located in Passaic County, sees several motor vehicle collisions each year, many of which result in injuries. According to data from the New Jersey Department of Transportation, Passaic County recorded over 13,000 crashes in a recent year, with nearly 3,000 involving injuries. While West Milford is a more rural area compared to other parts of the county, it still experiences serious crashes on key routes like Rte 23, especially at major intersections where visibility or traffic patterns pose added risk.
For those injured in a crash, understanding the basics of personal injury law is essential. Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. Under New Jersey law, individuals have the right to pursue a personal injury claim when their injuries are caused by another party’s negligence. This can include distracted driving, speeding, or failure to yield. Victims are advised to seek legal counsel as early as possible, as dealing with insurance companies alone can be complex and overwhelming. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help protect their rights and maximize the compensation they receive.
If you or someone close to you has been involved in a car accident in the area, our diligent West Milford Township car accident attorney at Metro Law is ready to offer you the legal guidance you need to pursue justice and collect compensation for your injuries. We take pride in our dedication to defending our clients and the personalized approach we apply to every case, always striving for the best possible outcome.
Contact Metro Law today at (800) 469-6476 to speak with one of our attorneys and schedule a consultation. Our team is committed to supporting you every step of the way and fighting for your interests with all the necessary effort.
West Milford clinches share of Big North Independence with victory - Baseball recap
N.J. High School Sports Deskhttps://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2025/05/west-milford-clinches-share-of-big-north-independence-with-victory-baseball-recap.html
Justin Burke delivered a masterful pitching performance as West Milford blanked Wayne Hills, 4-0, in Wayne.Burke dominated on the mound, throwing 6.2 innings of shutout baseball while allowing just three hits and striking out five batters. Though he issued six walks, the right-hander worked out of trouble repeatedly to preserve the shutout.The victory improved West Milford’s record to 13-7 and clinched at least a share of the Big North Conference Independence Division title. The Highlanders now stand at 7-2 in division pl...
Justin Burke delivered a masterful pitching performance as West Milford blanked Wayne Hills, 4-0, in Wayne.
Burke dominated on the mound, throwing 6.2 innings of shutout baseball while allowing just three hits and striking out five batters. Though he issued six walks, the right-hander worked out of trouble repeatedly to preserve the shutout.
The victory improved West Milford’s record to 13-7 and clinched at least a share of the Big North Conference Independence Division title. The Highlanders now stand at 7-2 in division play with two games remaining, while Wayne Hills fell to 12-9 overall.
West Milford wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, plating a run in the first inning before adding two more in the second to build a comfortable 3-0 lead. The Highlanders added an insurance run in the seventh inning to seal the victory.
Chris Timmins led the West Milford offense, going 2-for-2 with a walk and two stolen bases. Colby Scott reached base four times, going 1-for-1 with two walks and a hit-by-pitch while driving in a run and scoring twice.
Kyle Schwarzlow delivered timely hitting for the Highlanders, driving in two runs. Charlie Kling also contributed with a perfect 1-for-1 day at the plate and a stolen base.
West Milford’s defense committed three errors in the game, but the miscues didn’t prove costly as Burke consistently worked out of trouble to maintain the shutout.
The Highlanders now look to secure the division title outright in their remaining two conference games.
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Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.
Boys Lacrosse 2025 Passaic County final preview - Wayne Valley vs. West Milford
Mike Kinneyhttps://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2025/05/boys-lacrosse-2025-passaic-county-final-preview-wayne-valley-vs-west-milford.html
2025 PASSAIC COUNTY TOURNAMENT FINALBRACKETSaturday, May 10, at Wayne Valley3-West Milford (7-7) at 1-Wayne Valley (4-8), 2 p.m.Title HistoryWayne Valley has 6 titles, including the last two; West Milford won its only title in 2022Final AppearancesThis is Wayne Valley’s 9th; this is West Milford’s 5th.Head-to-Head in Fi...
2025 PASSAIC COUNTY TOURNAMENT FINAL
Saturday, May 10, at Wayne Valley
3-West Milford (7-7) at 1-Wayne Valley (4-8), 2 p.m.
Title History
Wayne Valley has 6 titles, including the last two; West Milford won its only title in 2022
Final Appearances
This is Wayne Valley’s 9th; this is West Milford’s 5th.
Head-to-Head in Final
Wayne Valley won in 2016, 2023 and ‘24. In last year’s final, Wayne Valley bolted to an eight-goal lead in the first half on the way to an 11-5 victory. Current junior Brayden Dunne led the way with five goals, 2025 grad Ryan Schmitz contributed three goals and three assists, and current senior Michael Burke recorded four assists. Current West Milford senior Jake Kelshaw collected one goal and two assists and he won 9-of-17 at the faceoff X.
How they got here:
Wayne Valley: Defeated 9-seed Eastern Christian in the quarterfinals, 23-1; defeated 4-seed DePaul in the semifinals, 13-7.
West Milford: Defeated 6-seed Pompton Lakes in the quarterfinals, 15-3; defeated 2-seed Wayne Hills in the semifinals, 7-6
Players to watch:
Wayne Valley: Brayden Rude, Jr., A (23G, 14A); Brayden Dunne, Jr., A (25G, 10A); Nick Rubino, Sr., M (9G, 26A); Rocco Destefano, Sr., A/M/FO (3G, 4A, 110-of-180); Logan Custance, Sr., M (23G, 2A); Max Prekal, Jr., D (2A, 45GB); Michael Grochola, So., D (20GB); Dylan Belot, Jr., G (.462 save percent.); Nate Askinazi, Jr., D (18GB); Grey Wolford. So., D (11GB).
West Milford: Vincent D’Andrea, Sr., A (27G, 9A); Tyler Acanfrio, Jr., G Max Gorny, Sr., M (22G, 10A); Brendan Coscia, So., M/FO (1G, 1A, 109-of-185); (.652 save percent.); Mark Schinasi, Jr., D (1A, 36GB); Jacob Price, Jr., DM (1G, 1A, 28FGB); Jake Kelshaw, Sr., M (15G, 16A); Cole Riley, So., M (14G, 9A); Pat Foley, Jr., D (24GB); Will Weiss, Jr., D (14GB); Sean Lombardo, So., A (11G, 4A); Stephen Dellagicoma, Jr., D (29GB); Jeffrey Papienuk, Jr., DM (18GB).
Key factor: Could it be D’Andrea bookends?
Vincent D’Andrea had earned significant playing time as a versatile freshman attackman three years ago as a freshman, and his contributions wound up speaking volumes.
He emerged as one of the big surprises of the entire NJILL freshman class with 36 goals and 12 assists, with one of those assists coming in the Highlanders’ 4-3 victory over Wayne Hills in the PCT final. That was West Milford’s only county championship, though it reached the final again in 2023 and ’24.
D’Andrea and senior middies Max Gorny and Jake Kelshaw now lead an otherwise sophomore-oriented offense that just may be experienced and composed enough to earn a second title.
The Highlanders have won four of their last six games, one of which was a 9-8 overtime triumph over Wayne Valley May 1.
Those sophomores showed clutch tendencies that day as Ryan Czeczuga struck for three goals and one assist, Dean Lombardo scored twice, and Brendan Coscia won 9-of-18 at the faceoff X. Kelshaw led the senior-class contributions with two goals and one assist and D’Andrea had one goal and one assist.
Wayne Valley would be wise to not view D’Andrea’s relatively conservative scoring output as a pattern. He netted two goals in last year’s final and had West Milford’s only goal in its 7-1 loss to Wayne Valley in the 2023 final.
Wayne Valley also has won three of its last four games and has obviously displayed a knack for performing at its best in this game. The team was 7-12 last year, yet was masterful on either side of the ball in that 11-5 championship game.
The Pick: West Milford
Mike Kinney can be reached at mkinney@njadvancemedia.com.
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