Skip to main content

Rachel L. Kugel

DUI and DWI Attorney at New York, NY

4.9   105 reviews
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • State Years
    New York - NY 18 years
    New Jersey - NJ 18 years
  • Licensed for 18 years
    State NY
    Acquired 2005
    Status
    Currently Registered No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 18 years
    State NJ
    Acquired 2005
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Rachel

Learn Rachel’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
I DON'T JUDGE YOU, I DON'T LECTURE YOU, I DEFEND YOU. FLAT FEES AND PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE!
Lawyer and founder of the Kugel Law Firm, Rachel has always wanted to make a difference in people's lives. Rachel is a criminal defense attorney focusing on DWI cases both in New York and New Jersey. Having defended hundreds of people on charges related to driving under the influence, it's no wonder that when the media needs an expert they call her. Rachel is a regular guest on CNN, FOX News, CourtTV, MSNBC, The O'Reilly Factor, The Morning Show with Mike and Juliet, and many others. Rachel is a member of the National College of DUI Defense and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. To Find out more about Rachel you can check out her youtube channel at

Photos and videos

Contact Rachel

The Kugel Law Firm
Offices in NY and NJ
1838 Second Avenue Suite 234
New York, NY, 10128
The Kugel Law Firm
One Gateway Center
Suite 2600
Newark, NJ, 07102
Hide locations

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  105 customer reviews
Posted by Serita | May 31, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Just go ahead and retain her !
If you’re on the edge as to whether or not to hire the Kugel law firm I hope my review will assist you! I was involved in an accident and got charged with a dui and was a complete nervous and embarrassed wreck. I contacted Kugel Law firm after reading her reviews and that was the best decision I made! Rachel and her team (Sean and Linda) were very knowledgeable, kind, understanding, and responded no matter how many questions I asked they always responded within a timely manner! Because of their diligence and knowledge my DUI and my 3 tickets was DISMISSED!!!! I am forever thankful for this firm! If you retain her you won’t regret it!
Read less
Response from Rachel Kugel June 1, 2023
Thank you so much! It is a pleasure to serve good people like you!
Posted by Tidjani | February 21, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Rachel L kugel team
Still have my case in court for trial, I saw very good reviews about the Rachel l kugel firm, her team are the best time, waiting for my trial hopefully the out come will be great
Response from Rachel Kugel February 27, 2023
Thanks so much for the kind review. We will continue to work hard to achieve the best possible result and give you the best chance at trial.
Posted by Danny | December 16, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI Charges Dropped (Keyport, NJ)
I was nervous and mentally prepared for terrible treatment after my experience with law enforcement. I felt that the justice system is set up to ensure I fail like I'm on the outside of an inside joke. I'll try to recap my experience with DUI charges and the Kugel Law Firm in a few sentences. I was pulled over for a pretext stop…"driving over the solid yellow line on an off-ramp. I "failed" (results are subjective and another trap) a field sobriety test. You'd need to be an acrobat to meet the requirements Keyport PD are testing with. Keyport PD drove me over to Hazlet Police Station because the Keyport Alcotest machine was out for maintenance. The Hazlet PD were not familiar with (based on my observations) operating the Alcotest machine. The reading was .11... That's obviously not a desirable reading. From the first call through the entire process Rachel and her team (Linda, Sean, Joe, and Elizabeth) treated me with dignity and respect. Never did any prejudging occur. Rachel pursued the facts and found all the holes in the prosecution's case. The DUI was dropped. No trial needed! I cant say enough about this team. Either you're with Rachel Kugel or you're losing your case! This is the team you want on your side! Thank you, Danny
Read less
Response from Rachel Kugel December 19, 2022
Thank you so much for the kind words! It means so much to The Kugel Law Firm team.
Posted by Joe | December 3, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Best of the Best...
Usually you come to meet an Attorney under difficult circumstances and this is what happened in our situation. I have worked in Law Enforcement for over 32 years and have spent more time in Courtrooms than most Attorneys. Rachel was recommended to me by some of my former co-workers and I'm glad we retained her office. First let me say that right from the start I felt extremely confident with Rachel and Linda. Every step of the way we were advised of what was happening with the case. As far a 4,000 retainer goes it's unheard-of these days. My Friend was facing a very difficult uphill battle and I myself was quite concerned because I knew that the outcome could be disastrous for her. Rachel was able to have the entire case dismissed because of her perseverance and expertise. The average person doesn't know the inner and outer workings of a courtroom. It's like rolling the dice sometimes and hoping to win which is where an experienced Attorney is worth every penny. I wouldn't have any reservations about recommending Rachel and her Staff to anyone.
Read less
Response from Rachel Kugel December 9, 2021
Thank you so much for your kind review. It means so much to us.
Posted by Matthew | June 22, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best lawyer for NY/NJ DWI
I chose The Kugel Law Firm based on the reviews that are so good that it was a bit suspicious. But make no mistake - they are all well-deserved. No outcome in the court system is guaranteed but Rachel will go out of her way to fight for you. My DWI was not an "easy" one (highest bracket BAC, car accident, blood test refusal). However, Rachel does not take any shortcuts. She was able to beat the blood test refusal hearing and negotiate a conditional plea that is very convenient for me. She is a walking encyclopedia when it comes to this stuff and on top of that, she is super friendly and always available to talk and break things down for you. If you've found yourself in the unfortunate situation of a DWI then look no further. I can't imagine anybody better. Thanks Rachel!
Read less
Response from Rachel Kugel February 27, 2023
Thanks so much for the kind review.
Posted by Dre | May 26, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional Lawyer
Literally still amazed at how Rachel went in that courtroom under the circumstances I was in and picked apart the whole arrest. She able to get me out of a DUI AND MANY TICKETS. I highly recommend turning over your DUI case to Rachel, your case will be in good hands.
Response from Rachel Kugel June 16, 2021
Thank you so much for the kind review!
Posted by Douglas | April 25, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Rachel Kugel law is the Best
Rachel Kugel was with me from the beginning to the end. She did an amazing job. I’m so blessed to have her represent me!! My charges got dismissed, she kept the future of my driving record and name in my hands. I’m so thankful to have someone like her and her law firm in my corner!! So to everybody out there if you need any help with any driving violations please call them. They will have your best interest in mind.
Read less
Posted by Bobbi | March 15, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Attorney - Must Use
I was recently arrested for a dwi in Morris County. If convicted, this would have counted as my third dwi and a 8 year suspension and jail time. I spoke with several attorneys prior to hiring Rachel Kugel. Each and everyone of these attorneys (with the exception of Rachel Kugel and her paralegal, Linda ) spoke over me and didn't take the time to listen to my circumstances. They were cold and just told me they're fee's. Linda and Rachel were honest, direct and took the time to listen to the details of my case during this very emotional and stressful time. Rachel is very thorough. She reviewed and sorted through every single detail (which was not an easy task) from this arrest as well as my priors. She turned over every stone possible. She then advised me that my second one was not appropriately handled by my previous attorney. Ms. Kugel and her staff fought hard for me and were able to have my current dwi stepped down to a 2nd offender status, saving me from jail time and a 8 year license suspension. I did receive a year suspension as well as the IDRC required program. Most importantly during and after sentencing the JUDGE explained to me how grateful I should be to Ms. Kugel. The JUDGE said Ms. Kugel did an absolutely phenomenal job representing me. If you are looking for an honest, outstanding and passionate attorney, I absolutely recommend The Kugel Law Firm. THANK YOU! Rachel and Linda. You have given me hope for my future.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | November 17, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Student/young professional.
Rachel, was very honest with me and gave me good mentorship through out my case. She gave me results I could not obtain with a PUblic defender. I would recommend her team to my coworkers and family members.
Posted by anonymous | November 3, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Years ago....
Years ago, on a holiday weekend after celebrating with my friends, I got a dui. I was in such a panic. Somehow I found this site, spoke to several attorneys, Rachel was the only one that put me at ease. The case lasted several months, but its just recently I've gotten to see the full after effects of this dark cloud over my head. Rachel and Linda were professional, courteous and at the same time compassionate. They somehow lessened the "shame" that comes with something like this. I pray to God I will never need Rachel again, but if by some chance shes needed, I wouldn't hesitate. Rachel and her office took care of everything and I didn't have to hunt them down to find them. Thank you Rachel and Linda
Read less
Posted by anonymous | May 13, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
She is the best hands down!!!
She beat my dwi over .3 she is a great person . You can not go wrong thank you Patrick D,
Posted by anonymous | March 14, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dynamic Attorney w/ Innovative Techniques
Overall, I had a very great experience with Rachel. She offered a very flexible payment system and offered a range of different services that were included in her retainer fee including representation through the duration of a trial. Her Paralegal Linda is also very empathetic, professional, and understanding to the needs of each of the clients that Rachel serves. Rachel puts great effort into getting a good outcome with your case. She is also willing to go to trial and/or use the appropriate tactics to shift the case in a good direction. Would love to use her again but ah I won’t be getting myself in a situation like this in the future ! Great to be referred !
Read less
Posted by Nicole | February 6, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Absolute best decision I Ever Made, hands down!
I was on the highway in BK one night, the cops were *%$# and I got the book thrown at me. Long story short, I got locked up, a DWI, license revoked and after that I felt like my life would never be the same. I was in complete panic mode and was lost. With having the court date coming, I googled DWI/DUI lawyers, researched and spoke to a bunch of lawyers, and Rachel was one of them. After talking to all of them who sounded like fast-talking, will tell you anything you want to hear, shady, typical lawyers etc, I spoke to Linda at Rachels office and she stood out from the rest. She was so professional, courteous, transparent, up front, and with full disclosure of the process. She said they would try their hardest for the best possible outcome, but couldn't obviously promise anything but would TRY for me. She explained the entire process and was actually reasonably priced (and took credit card!). With Rachel sounding the best, I took the gamble and chose her. I Could Not Have Made a Better Decision!! She is the absolute best at what she does. First, they got my license back right away bc I drive to work. Linda at her office answers the phone and responds to email right away no matter what. There was even an issue w paperwork getting moved thru the system there and Linda kept at it contacting them until it was pushed through. Second, Rachel won my case with the DMV. Keeping me fully informed and explaining everything in regular terms I could understand from day one. But I still had the criminal court case in BK looming, and I could not have been more nervous. However, once I got there and saw her relationships and how she carried herself in the courtroom, I felt more confident and like I made a good choice. I went back a few times with Rachel trying to get me a good deal and negotiating w them and them pushing the date etc etc. End of story, I got All Charges Dropped and walked away with a minor moving violation. I COULD NOT BE MORE THRILLED!!!! I lived months so nervous about the whole thing and now everday I think of it and cannot believe that its all over, and that Rachel worked the magic she did and got me what she got me. If you have a DWI or Anything, do not hesitate and hire Rachel Kugel! She is confident, knows her stuff, and will go to the end fighting for you. If anything every happens again (pray it doesnt) she would seriously be the first one I call. I thank my lucky stars I found her and chose her. Good luck to all, but w Rachel you probably wont need it! Rachel thank you so much from the bottom of my heart, I could not have done it without you.
Read less
Posted by Elis | January 11, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
New year new life
Rachel is a winner highly recommended. Her work is impeccable I was impressed by her knowledge of the DUI and DWI court system and knew I was in good hands. Thank you so much for your help.
Posted by anonymous | January 1, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Winning Team
Rachel and her team are amazing. They are extremely reliable and compassionate. With Rachel’s guidance and assistance I was able to have the case fully DISMISSED!!! I am so thankful and highly recommend her.
Posted by Jennifer | December 6, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great DUI Lawyer
Rachel is a fantastic lawyer and was help to help resolve my DUI with the best poasible outcome. She explained everything to me in detail to help me understand all of my options. Additionally Linda in her office was always extremely responsive and helpful and they were just a pleasure to work with! I am very happy with the outcome of my case and would recommend Rachel's services to anyone who needs them!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | July 18, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Compassionate and Professional Lawyer
I hired her with the task of helping me handle some very difficult moving violations and far exceeding my expectations. With her suggestions and expertise the outcome was far better than I expected. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone in need of lawyer. Also her paralegal Linda is awesome she really cares about their clients and puts them at ease which truly helped in this situation.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | July 16, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Life Saver
Unfortunately I was arrested for DWI last year. My BAC reading was extremely high and I was at a lost. I googled DWI attorney's in NJ and found the Kugel Law firm. Thank god I did. What could have been a license suspension of 1 year, Interlock etc...turned out to be a 3 month suspension. Why? Because Rachel Kugel knew what she was doing and fought to get me the best possible outcome. Her communication and knowledge is off the charts. And her paralegal Linda was beyond off the charts. Every time I called Linda she would pick up the phone and answer any questions I had. From day 1 Linda told me we will work hard to help you and that's what they did. I can't thank Linda and Rachel enough. Because of them they did everything in their power to support me through the embarrassment and poor judgement I made. Don't go anywhere else. They are the best.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | April 24, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Rachel is a life saver, literally!
After having a bit of a unfortunate past of prior mistakes/few DWAI misdemeanors in NY state, I had gotten in trouble in NJ about 4/5 years ago now. Throughout the entire process from start to finish - Rachel & Linda were amazing. With working with different lawyers in the past, I was very leary on going through the process again. Any lawyers I had used in the past were extremely judgmental and not understanding & made me feel like a terrible person even. I did not feel judged at all from Rachel, she made me feel extremely comfortable and she worked her magic in the court room. She is engaging, positive and very determined to get you the best results. My scenario was not looking great, as Rachel even agreed that the judge at this township did not have any pity toward people with these type of records & was hard to convince otherwise. However, we fought it for many months. She got me the best result I could get for my scenario - which was no felony, no jail time. I had a decent amount of fees, but I walked out knowing I was lucky to have her as my attorney through it all & I am forever thankful for her! You will not go wrong in choosing her!
Read less
Posted by Christian | April 3, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding, highly professional, efficient and very successful DUI attorney firm
First of all DUI is a serious thing. It should be avoided at at all cost. But if it happens you need outstanding help as it is classified as a crime and may have very serious consequences. The Kugel Law firm offers that outstanding help. They do not judge for what had happened but they are there to help you. They are responsive, professional, experienced and most importantly VERY successful. Rachel is a charming and very experienced DUI lawyer, highly respected by Judges and District Attorneys alike. She fights for you as long as it takes even though she works on a flat fee. In Court - which is not a pleasant experience - she makes you fell well represented. And she is always friendly, cheerful and optimistic. I have the highest esteem and regard for the Kugel team and can only highly recommend them.
Read less
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Founder
  • The Kugel Law Firm
  • 2005 - Present
  • Criminal Defense Investigator
  • The Law Offices of Roberts and Wood
  • 1999 - 2001

Education

  • Yeshiva University, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2004
  • American University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2001

Legal Cases

  • Manhattan, N.Y. DWI
  • Case dismissed.
  • Newark, N.J. DWI
  • Case Dismissed
  • Brooklyn, N.Y. DWI
  • DWI Dismissed in favor of Following too closely.
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National College of DUI Defense
  • N/A
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • N/A
  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association
  • N/A

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2014
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2013

Speaking Engagements

  • DWI Update 2020 - Advanced DWI Practice & Challenges to the New DWI/Interlock Statute
  • DWI Update 2020
  • 2020
  • DWI Update 2019/2020 - Advanced DWI Practice & Challenges to the New DWI/Interlock Statute
  • DWI Update 2019/2020
  • 2019
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (17)
Given (13)
Endorse Rachel
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Kugel is a very knowledgeable and effective advocate and has accomplished a great deal in two of the toughest areas to be successful in. Not just in her career as an attorney, but also prior to becoming an attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 15
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Nov 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rachel and her staff are committed to servicing their clients and trying to obtain favorable outcomes for them."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer.I MET RACHEL IN BROOKLYN CRIMINAL COURT ABOUT A MONTH AGO .WE DISCUSS THE PRACTICE OF CRIMINAL LAW I WAS VERY IMPRESSED WITH RACHEL 'S COMMITMENT I WATCHED RACHEL HANDLE HER CASES AND I AM CONVINCED THAT RACHEL IS AN EXCELLENT LAWYER THAT GETS GREAT RESULTS"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rachel is a stunning DUI lawyer. When I am not able to handle the case she is the best possible option I have in my mind to refer my clients to."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I'm pleased to endorse Ms. Kugel. She is a top-notch criminal defense lawyer and a zealous advocate for her clients. A highly recommended attorney."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 07
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer. Rachel knows the law inside and out. A very reliable attorney, a rare gem in the profession."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 25
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jan 26
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Kugel was a worthy adversary when I was an ADA."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rachel is an excellent DUI attorney and a zealous advocate for her clients. I recommend her without hesitation."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 25
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"Rachel and I have been working closely together since 2009. During these years, I got to know Rachel both professionally and on a personal level. Her dedication, passion and knowledge of the law is of the highest quality and integrity that it far surpasses the majority of attorneys out there today. Rachel’s tremendous expertise and experience in the legal field enables her to zealously represent her clients getting them the results they want. Rachel truly cares about her clients so much that she makes herself readily available day, night and even on weekends to answer or address any problems or concerns. She truly is an asset to the legal community and anybody looking for an attorney should strongly consider her. I strongly encourage you to do so. Her website speaks for itself!"
Criminal defense Attorney | May 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"When I first meet Rachel Kugel I was a Municipal Prosecutor and she was representing a client. Ms. Kugel was very well prepared. Due to the nature of the case we had a trial in front of a Judge. Ms. Kugel really impressed me with her knowledge of the law and the facts of her case. She was able to achieve for her client the result that she wanted and expected. Based upon the experience that I had with Ms. Kugel I can say that she is a fine, experienced and compassionate attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. She is professional and courteous. I have referred many cases to her and our clients have all been highly satisfied."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Rachel for several years. We worked together (DWI Trial and Appeal). She has a great balance of intellect, trial skills and demeanor and she keeps her clients' interests paramount."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Rachel is a phenomenal attorney and really knows her stuff!"
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
General practice
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Criminal defense