Sean J. Spinello

Sean J. Spinello

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 36 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Woodbridge, NJ
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Speeding & Traffic Ticket, Criminal Defense

33 South Wood Avenue, Suite 600, Woodbridge, NJ

About Sean

Biography

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in New Jersey for 36 years

State: New Jersey

Acquired: 1989

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in Pennsylvania for 36 years

State: Pennsylvania

Acquired: 1989

Inactive

No misconduct found

Location

Sean J. Spinello, Esq.

33 South Wood Avenue, Suite 600, Woodbridge, NJ, 08830

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Sean J. Spinello's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

301 Client Reviews

Showing 6 - 10 of 29 reviews | Compassion

Posted by Kelly | November 30, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket

helped with traffic ticket

after using many lawyers over the years , we are so happy to have found Mr. Spinello. He's very professional but yet caring which is hard to find these days. He provided assistance with a traffic ticket and thanks to Mr. Spinello things went well! Hopefully ill never need counsel again, but if I ...do--i know who to call!

Posted by Leo | October 17, 2019 | Speeding & Traffic Ticket

World's Greatest Lawyer!

Where do I start? Stressed out and barreling down the Jersey Turnpike en route to something akin to a family emergency, I forgot myself and started driving like a lunatic. When the state trooper rightfully pulled me over, he cited me for everything in the book: Speeding (102 mph), reckless driving,... failure to signal, et al. Hadn't had a ticket in years and now I received 3 in one shot! I was staring at 10 points on my license, and close to a grand in penalty fees for those violations - plus a NJ state surcharge of $250, every year, for all the points I'd received. Naturally, I'd be looking at a hugely hiked insurance rate too, certainly hundreds more a year, if the insurance company would even agree to keep me. Lastly, I learned that the speeding violation alone might get my license suspended... I felt sick to my stomach, utterly disgusted with myself and petrified at how badly this was going to affect my family. I realized I should probably get a lawyer, if only because I was officially in over my head and God knows how bad it could get from here. I went on AVVO... and finally my luck turned completely around. Why? Because I found Sean. I call him Sean because once you talk with him or meet him, you feel like you've known him forever. He's one of the most personable people I've ever met, and that is truly something rare and reassuring to find in a lawyer. From the moment I first contacted him, he made me feel at ease and was genuinely sympathetic to what I was going through. I don't know how to put it, but he makes you really feel like he is in your corner, not simply because he's your lawyer but because he's just a truly decent guy. He explained everything to me very clearly, from what I was potentially facing (including possible license suspension) to what he felt he could achieve for me in court. But even in the midst of being utterly straight with me, he put my mind at ease. It felt like I had a good friend who happened to be a great lawyer and he wanted to reassure me that he had my back. But let me be clear: He's a great lawyer. When all was said and done, he not only saved my license from being suspended but got my near grand in penalties knocked down to several hundred dollars and my points reduced from a whopping 10 to just 2! As far as I'm concerned Sean is a veritable miracle worker and his extremely reasonable fee was more than worth every penny for what he spared me from. But beyond that, he is a great person. He showed up himself rather than sending someone from his office. He drove halfway across Jersey to be there for this early morning court appointment, and he'd already talked to the prosecuting attorney about my case, laying the groundwork for my salvation. But lastly, I have to share this final moment to capture what Sean is like. My wife and I and Sean were waiting for the judge to appear and we were chatting and laughing about our families and experiences - like old friends. In the midst of this, the enormity of what I was facing finally hit me and I had a panic attack, right there in the courtroom. I quietly stood up, told my wife and Sean, "think I'm having a panic attack" and walked outside for some air. Got a drink at the water fountain - trying to calm down - and when I looked up, Sean was standing there, asking if I was okay. He waited there with me while I got myself together and then we walked back in together too. Seeing how calm and sympathetic he was actually calmed me down enough to get me back in the room. And I remembered thinking, wow, this guy is much more than just a great lawyer. He's a truly good person. As others have stated on this site, I would never think of going with another lawyer again now that I've met and been rescued by Sean. And as others have said, you hire Sean Spinello as your attorney and wind up thinking of him as Sean, your friend who happens to be a great lawyer. In every sense of the word, he is the best.

Posted by Kim | March 26, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket

Excellent attorny!

Mr. Spinello is a professional, warm & caring lawyer. He made an unpleasant experience more pleasurable. He took the time to explain everything about the process from the first email to the days after court. He stood in our place when we were unable to attend court for other obligations. I highly rec...ommend him, for any & all driving infractions.

Posted by Joseph | January 07, 2019 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Sean is a life saver!

In July of 2018, I encountered one of the worst experiences to date, I was being detained for alleged DWI charge. Brief background about myself, I’m an independent 24 year old student and full-time employee, taking care of my nephew and little brother. With the traffic violations and fines being pres...ented to me naturally I was overwhelmed and began to seek an attorney. All attorneys that I consulted with by phone including Sean made me aware of the possible outcomes. Out of all the attorneys I consulted with, Sean seemed the most understanding and concise. The charges against me were condemnatory but Sean was very understanding and was willing to take on the case. I was very apprehensive of the consequences, ultimately my license being suspended, but Sean consistently ensured that he’d try his best to represent me. Around that time I had 2 pending vacations one out of the state and one out the country in which I needed my license for. None of my planned trips were interrupted, because he was able to get the court date rescheduled. I appeared in court in September and October, both court dates were rescheduled due to the discovery not being submitted to the court. At October’s hearing Sean put in a motion of discovery. By my next court date in December Sean was able to get my DWI charge dismissed completely! I walked away with 2 traffic violations with fines, and my driving privileges still ACTIVE. I’m blessed to have met Mr. Spinello! If you are looking for someone honest, compassionate and thorough, Sean is your go to attorney! This was the ultimate Christmas gift and my New Years was better than ever because of this outcome. I’ve made a great friend, and now have a reliable lawyer for future situations (hopefully never again). I’d advise anyone to use Sean Spinello as their attorney!

Posted by Jerry | October 10, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Juvenile marijuana possession charge

To start with I would like to thank Mr Spinellow for an excellent outcome for my son , His experience absolutely showed in court I went in expecting the worst outcome but instead we got what we felt was the best , very professional ,compassionate and caring , I never felt rushed at any moment he took... his time to explain everything in detail and made sure we understood completely. A pleasure to do business with and not that I plan on needing his services but if I do I will definitely contact him, I highly recommend him, give him a call and see for yourself!!!!

See All Client Reviews

Sean J. Spinello's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Sean
Michael Thomas Nolan Jr headshot
Michael Nolan

DUI and DWI lawyer | Sep 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Sean is an outstanding attorney. He is extremely knowledgable, intelligent and competent to handle the most complex criminal/DWI related matters. As a prosecutor, he was tough but fair. Now he's utilizing his experience to help people accused of violating the law. I wholeheartedly endorse him and his skills."

Kevin Michael Leckerman headshot
Kevin Leckerman

DUI and DWI lawyer | Aug 04

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Mr. Spinello served as opposing counsel in a number of matters where I represented clients charged with DWI. He showed on each of these occasions a tremendous knowledge of DWI law. I endorse this attorney."

Peter Bentey headshot
Peter Bentey

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer | Jul 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Sean is an excellent attorney. He cares about each case and client. Sean is a man of great integrity and gets fantastic results for his clients."

Hanan Attalla Boulos headshot
Hanan Boulos

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Sean is an excellent attorney. Sean is very professional, highly knowledgeable in the law and extremely dedicated to his client's cases. He is an outstanding advocate for his clients. I highly endorse this lawyer."

Robert Zavistoski headshot
Robert Zavistoski

DUI and DWI lawyer | Dec 19

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Mr. Spinello trained me when I was a new Municipal Court Prosecutor, so I can tell you first hand that he is extremely knowledgeable in all areas of Municipal Court law, especially DWI law. As a defense attorney Mr. Spinello is always courteous, thoroughly prepared, respected by Judges, and often times has researched a unique and compelling legal argument in his client’s defense. Moreover, Sean displays a genuine sense of compassion for the clients he represents. I offer my highest recommendation of Sean Spinello when selecting an attorney for your Municipal Court matters."

Matthew Joseph Dorry headshot
Matthew Dorry

DUI and DWI lawyer | Aug 09

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Spinello is a well-versed and cordial attorney who I would consider a friend in our community. His experience and knowledge prove most beneficial to his clients."

Richard M. Gregory headshot
Richard Gregory

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer | Aug 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Sean is an excellent attorney. He works hard to develop a positive rapport with each client he represents. Not only is he extremely well-informed and experienced in his application of the law, but he is also sympathetic and attentive with regard to the needs and concerns of his clients. I do not hesitate to recommend this attorney, as I have seen first-hand the way he vigorously advocates on behalf of his clients, while always maintaining a close and caring relationship with those he works to serve."

Christopher J Grenda headshot
Christopher Grenda

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 29

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"When I was a municipal prosecutor I worked on numerous matters with Mr. Spinello, he is a great attorney."

Anthony Fazioli headshot
Anthony Fazioli

DUI and DWI lawyer | Sep 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I see Mr. Spinello in several municipal courts throughout New Jersey. He is very knowledgeable, and works hard for his clients. The prosecutors and judges throughout New Jersey respect Mr. Spinello. I highly endorse this attorney."

Matisyahu Wolfberg headshot
Matisyahu Wolfberg

Car accident lawyer | Feb 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Leon Matchin headshot
Leon Matchin

DUI and DWI lawyer | Oct 22

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer because I know him from when he prosecuted cases and back then he always managed to temper his sense of justice with mercy and now I know it is because he was a defense attorney at heart. Now that he does what he loves he knows and anticipates the prosecutor's position before he even meets with him and he does this better than anyone else I know in this business. In other words, Sean knows every trick in the book, which explains why he helps his clients out so much. This is why I endorse Sean Spinello."

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Unknown lawyer | Apr 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."

S K Mohel headshot
S Mohel

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 26

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Exceptional attorney with extensive experience. While a formidable adversary in the court room (Sean was a prosecutor), he always maintained the highest integrity in his role as a prosecutor to seek justice. He was fair and thoughtful, always mindful of the legal, moral and ethical implications of his actions. As an adversary, he was capable and thorough. I would rate him a 10 out of a 10. As a defense attorney, Sean maintains that commitment and obligation to the people he represents. His character is exemplary and he is among the most respected attorneys in the local bar. Beyond that, he has a full spectrum of experience prior to his prosecuting activities that give him a unique perspective in the field."

David Jason Singer headshot
David Singer

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Spinello is a leader in the community and in his profession. I have known Mr. Spinello for over 15 years, and he is professional and abides by the highest ethical standards."

Colleen M Dolcy headshot
Colleen Dolcy

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 14

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Peter J Luizzi headshot
Peter Luizzi

DUI and DWI lawyer | Nov 14

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Sean Spinello was a Municipal prosecutor in many towns in Ocean County before he went into private practice. As the prosecutor he was my adversary in many DUI/DWI and other municipal court matters as I would represent the defendants in such matters. It is not often I compliment an adversary who is now also seeking to represent defendants, but in Sean's case I will make an exception. Sean flat out knows what is doing in any municipal court matter. Add to that he is professional, courteous and respectful of the court, opposing counsel and the defendants/clients and you have a winning combination. For these reasons I highly recommend Sean Spinello for any DWI/DUI matter or any other municipal court matter because he knows what he is doing and he cares!!"

David Lawrence Epstein headshot
David Epstein

General practice lawyer | Nov 14

Relationship: Supervised lawyer

"Sean is one of the most talented lawyers with whom I had the pleasure of working. He dedicates himself conscientiously and relentlessly to the pursuit and protection of his clients' interests and also beings good common sense and an extensive knowledge of the law to the table to ensure his clients receive the best possible results."

James P Brady headshot
James Brady

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 29

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Excellent attorney. Knows the law and people."

Kevin F Sheehy headshot
Kevin Sheehy

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Peter Bentey headshot
Peter Bentey

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer

Matthew Joseph Dorry headshot
Matthew Dorry

Criminal defense lawyer

Richard M. Gregory headshot
Richard Gregory

Criminal defense lawyer

Robert Zavistoski headshot
Robert Zavistoski

DUI and DWI lawyer

Anthony Fazioli headshot
Anthony Fazioli

Criminal defense lawyer

Christopher J Grenda headshot
Christopher Grenda

DUI and DWI lawyer

Leon Matchin headshot
Leon Matchin

Criminal defense lawyer

Nicholas A. Moschella headshot
Nicholas Moschella

DUI and DWI lawyer

S K Mohel headshot
S Mohel

Criminal defense lawyer

Joanna M. Perilli headshot
Joanna Perilli

DUI and DWI lawyer

William George Kalas headshot
William Kalas

Personal injury lawyer

Colleen M Dolcy headshot
Colleen Dolcy

Criminal defense lawyer

Peter J Luizzi headshot
Peter Luizzi

Personal injury lawyer

David Jason Singer headshot
David Singer

Environmental and natural resources lawyer

David Lawrence Epstein headshot
David Epstein

Administrative law lawyer

Thomas V. Campo headshot
Thomas Campo

Criminal defense lawyer

James P Brady headshot
James Brady

Criminal defense lawyer

Kevin F Sheehy headshot
Kevin Sheehy

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael Thomas Nolan Jr headshot
Michael Nolan

Criminal defense lawyer

Kevin Michael Leckerman headshot
Kevin Leckerman

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2020

Presenter, Expungement Law Continuing Education Seminar, Ocean County Bar Association

2019

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2017

Top 10%, Lawyers of Distinction

2017

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2016

Oustanding Citizen Award, Middlesex County Sheriff's Officers Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 59

2016

Top 10%, Lawyers of Distinction

2016

10 Best for Client Satisfaction, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys

2015

Best of New Jersey, The Italian Voice

1993

Man of the Year, Mountainside Police Benevolent Association

1991

Certified Mediator, Seton Hall University School of Law

1989

National Mock Trial Team, Rutgers University School of Law

1989

Moot Court Board, Rutgers University School of Law

Work Experience

2024 - Present

Attorney, Law Offices of Leon Matchin, LLC

2012 - 2013

Prosecuting Attorney, State Of New Jersey

2012 - 2013

Attorney, Citt, Holzapfel and Zabarsky, PC

2011 - 2023

Owner, Sean J. Spinello Law Offices, LLC

2005 - 2011

Senior Assistant Vice President and Law Professor, Rutgers University

2004 - 2005

Dean and Professor, New Jersey Institute of Technology

1997 - 2004

Dean and Law Professor, Rutgers University

1994 - 1997

Managing Partner, Spinello Law Firm

1993 - 1993

Adjunct Law Professor, Seton Hall University School of Law

1989 - 1994

Prosecuting Attorney, State Of New Jersey

1989 - 1994

Attorney, Post Polak Goodsell MacNeill & Strauchler

1987 - 1989

Law Clerk, New Jersey Bell Telephone Company

Associations

1989 - Present

New Jersey State Bar Association

Member, Municipal Court Committee

2021 - 2022

Ocean County Bar Association

Member, Mock Trial Committee

2016 - 2018

American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys

Member

2011 - 2022

Ocean County Bar Association

Member, Municipal Court Committee

2011 - 2014

Middlesex County Bar Association

Member

2011 - 2022

Ocean County Bar Association

Member, Criminal Practice Committee

2005 - 2011

National Association of College and University Attorneys

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

DWI, Refusal and Criminal Drug Charges Dismissed

DWI, Refusal and Criminal Drug Charges Dismissed

104 MPH Speeding Charge Dismissed

104 MPH Speeding Charge Dismissed

DWI Dismissed

DWI Dismissed

Drug Charge Dismissed and Motion to Suppress Evidence Granted

Drug Charges Dismissed

See More Legal Cases

Education

2000

Rutgers University

Ed. M.

1989

Rutgers, State University of New Jersey School of Law - Newark

JD - Juris Doctor

1986

Rutgers University, Cook College

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2010

National Center for the Study of Collective Bargaining in Higher Education and the Professions

Post-Docs and Collective Bargaining: Issues and Trends

2009

National Center for the Study of Collective Bargaining in Higher Education and the Professions

Are Contingent Faculty Interests Best Represented in Joint Bargaining Units or in Units Distinct and Separate from Those of Full-time Faculty? Preferences of Current Administrators and Union Leaders

2009

Academy of Academic Personnel Administrators

Bargaining in Challenging Times and getting Financial Issues Under Control - Impact on Retirement, Benefits and Workload

2008

Rutgers University Graduate School of Education

Education Law

2008

National Center for the Study of Collective Bargaining and the Professions Annual Conference Merit Pay:Current and Future Models"

2004

Mid-Atlantic Association of College and University Housing Officers

FERPA 101

2001

Rutgers University Graduate School of Education

Law of Higher Education

2001

Rutgers University Graduate School of Education

Education Law

2001

Association of College Unions International

Legal Issues in Student Affairs

2000

Rutgers University Graduate School of Education

Education Law

1999

Rutgers University School of Environmental and Biological Sciences

Baccalaureate Speaker

1997

Mid-Atlantic Association of College and University Housing Officers

Student Alcohol Harm Reduction: A Joint Student-Administration Approach

1993

Seton Hall University School of Law

Legal Writing

Publications

2012

Journal of Collective Bargaining in the Professions Merit Pay - Current and Future Models

Languages

English

Russian

Spanish

Activity

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