When a child is born with a birth defect, families in Fairton face immediate questions about care, costs, and what may have caused the condition. Some defects arise naturally, while others may stem from medication, toxic exposure, or lapses in prenatal care. The Law Office of Edward Appel helps parents understand their options under New Jersey law, from investigation to potential claims against responsible parties. Our focus is compassionate, detail-oriented advocacy designed to secure resources for long-term needs. If you are unsure where to start, a conversation can clarify timelines, evidence to gather, and which path may fit your family. We are ready to listen and explain next steps in plain language.
Every birth defects case is unique. Proving responsibility often requires medical records, product information, environmental histories, and knowledgeable analysis. Our firm serves Fairton and surrounding Cumberland County communities with a careful, fact-driven approach that respects your family’s privacy and priorities. Whether you suspect a prescription, workplace exposure, contaminated water, or missed prenatal testing contributed to your child’s condition, we can help evaluate the connection and identify potential defendants. We also assess future costs, including therapies, adaptive equipment, and in-home support. From the first call, our goal is to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on your child’s care and well-being.
Birth defects cases can involve multiple causes and overlapping legal theories, including medical negligence, product liability, and toxic exposure. Without coordinated guidance, important evidence may be lost and deadlines may pass. Legal support can help preserve records, consult qualified medical professionals, and quantify lifetime needs, allowing families to make informed decisions. Effective advocacy aims to secure financial support for treatment plans, therapies, and supportive services, while also demanding accountability where warranted. In Fairton, we know families value clear communication and steady progress. Our role is to build a detailed record, outline options, and pursue a strategy aligned with your family’s goals and timeline under New Jersey law.
The Law Office of Edward Appel is a New Jersey Personal Injury, Criminal Defense, and DUI Law Firm serving Fairton and Cumberland County. In birth defects matters, we combine attentive client service with thorough investigation, collaborating with medical and scientific resources when needed. We are committed to accessibility—returning calls, explaining developments, and keeping families updated on each step. Our approach is practical: identify responsible parties, document causation, and present a clear picture of damages that reflects both current and future needs. We welcome the chance to meet, review your records, and discuss how we can help secure support that makes a meaningful difference for your child.
Birth defects are structural or functional conditions present at birth. Some are genetic, while others may be linked to medications, chemical exposure, infections, or inadequate prenatal monitoring. Legal claims often focus on whether a party owed a duty to warn, monitor, or act differently, and whether that failure contributed to the outcome. In Fairton, families may face cases involving prescription drugs, environmental exposures, or missed screening. The core questions include what happened, who may be responsible, and what resources are needed for lifelong care. Our role is to clarify these questions, outline options, and pursue an approach grounded in evidence and New Jersey law.
Building a birth defects case typically involves gathering medical records, understanding the timeline of pregnancy and prenatal care, identifying potential exposures, and reviewing product information for medications or chemicals. It may also require consulting qualified medical professionals to assess causation and the extent of lifelong needs. Families in Fairton benefit from a clear plan: preserve documents, avoid posting details publicly, and seek early guidance. We evaluate liability theories, including negligence and product liability, and consider insurance coverage and available benefits. Throughout, we remain focused on the child’s future—seeking support for therapies, equipment, and services that promote health, comfort, and independence.
A birth defects claim is a civil action seeking compensation when a preventable factor contributed to a congenital condition. That factor might be a dangerous medication without adequate warnings, exposure to harmful substances at home or work, or substandard prenatal care that failed to recognize or address known risks. Not every defect supports a lawsuit; genetics and unpreventable conditions are common. The legal analysis centers on causation, foreseeability, and duty. In New Jersey, claims may be brought against manufacturers, healthcare providers, employers, or other entities depending on the facts. We help Fairton families evaluate these issues and pursue a tailored, evidence-based strategy.
Successful cases usually depend on four pillars: documentation, causation, damages, and timing. Documentation includes medical records, prescriptions, lab results, and environmental data. Causation requires showing a link between the exposure or negligent act and the child’s condition, often supported by expert reports and scientific literature. Damages include present and future medical care, therapies, home modifications, and non-economic harm. Timing involves New Jersey statutes of limitations and special rules that may apply to minors. The process in Fairton typically starts with an evaluation, evidence gathering, and notice to potential defendants, followed by negotiation or litigation, with the family’s needs guiding each decision.
Understanding common terms can make the process clearer. You may hear about teratogens, causation standards, and liability theories like negligence and product liability. New Jersey-specific rules, including statutes of limitations and tolling for minors, can affect when and how you file. Knowing these terms helps you follow the strategy and actively participate in decisions. We explain each concept in everyday language, provide written summaries when helpful, and encourage questions. Our goal is to ensure families in Fairton feel informed at each step, from the initial evaluation through resolution, so you can confidently weigh options and choose a path aligned with your child’s long-term needs.
A teratogen is any agent capable of disrupting fetal development and causing birth defects. Examples include certain prescription drugs, alcohol, lead, pesticides, solvents, and some infections. In legal cases, showing exposure to a teratogen is only part of the picture; the timing, dose, and scientific literature linking the agent to the specific defect all matter. Documentation—such as pharmacy records, workplace safety logs, and environmental reports—can be vital. If a manufacturer failed to provide adequate warnings, or if a provider overlooked known risks, liability may arise. We help Fairton families investigate potential teratogenic exposures and assess whether the science supports a viable claim.
Causation connects the alleged wrongdoing or exposure to the child’s condition. In birth defects cases, this often involves medical literature, differential diagnosis, and consideration of alternative causes. Courts look for reliable methodologies and clear reasoning, not speculation. We build causation through careful record review, appropriate consultations, and targeted discovery. For Fairton families, this means documenting prenatal timelines, exposure histories, and product use, then aligning those facts with credible scientific sources. Strong causation supports negotiations and, if needed, litigation. Even when the cause is uncertain, a thoughtful inquiry can clarify your options and whether further investigation or a different legal theory is appropriate.
The statute of limitations sets the deadline for filing a lawsuit. New Jersey law includes specific timelines for medical negligence and product liability, and there may be tolling rules for minors that extend the filing period for the child. However, separate deadlines—like notice requirements or evidence preservation—still make early action wise. Waiting can make it harder to gather records and secure reliable testimony. If you live in Fairton, we recommend contacting counsel promptly to review dates tied to treatment, prescriptions, and discovery of the condition. A timely review can protect your rights while allowing room for a measured, thorough investigation.
Product liability involves holding manufacturers, distributors, or sellers responsible when a defective product or inadequate warnings contribute to harm. In birth defects cases, this may include prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or chemical products. Claims can focus on design defects, manufacturing defects, or failure to warn about risks during pregnancy. Building a product case typically requires product identification, label and marketing materials, regulatory history, and scientific evidence. For Fairton families, we assess whether the product’s risk information was sufficient and whether safer alternatives or clearer warnings could have reduced the harm. Strong documentation and credible experts are often key to achieving a fair outcome.
Families can pursue different paths: an early negotiation approach focused on quick support, a thorough investigation leading to structured settlement talks, or full litigation in court. A limited approach may suit cases with clear records and cooperative insurers, while a comprehensive plan can be more fitting when multiple defendants, complex science, or large future needs are involved. We tailor the strategy to your priorities—timing, privacy, and long-term care. In Fairton, we begin with a candid assessment, discussing strengths, risks, and costs. Whether we aim for early resolution or prepare for trial, we anchor each decision in your child’s needs and New Jersey law.
A streamlined approach can make sense when medical records, exposure history, and product identification are straightforward, and the insurer or defendant responds in good faith. In these cases, targeted documentation—such as prenatal charts, pharmacy logs, and physician notes—can support an early demand. For Fairton families focused on quick assistance, this path may reduce stress and cost. We still evaluate long-term needs carefully, using life-care planning concepts to estimate future therapies and equipment. If negotiations stall or new facts emerge, we can shift to a fuller investigation. The goal is to secure meaningful support while minimizing delays and disruption to your family’s routine.
If the defense concedes key facts or the science is well-established, a limited strategy may be effective. For example, where a known teratogen aligns with the timing of exposure and the diagnosed condition, the parties may be closer on causation and damages. In that scenario, structured settlement talks can begin earlier, ensuring resources are allocated to the child’s immediate and long-term needs. In Fairton, we explore whether early mediation might save months of uncertainty. Even in a simplified path, we protect your interests through careful documentation, confidentiality considerations, and settlement terms that address future medical and educational support for your child.
When a case involves several possible contributors—such as a medication, an environmental exposure, and disputed prenatal care—a comprehensive approach helps organize the facts and science. We build a cohesive timeline, retain appropriate consultants, and pursue discovery to fill gaps. In Fairton, this often means collecting workplace safety records, environmental testing, and communications with healthcare providers. Complex cases benefit from methodical preparation that positions you for either meaningful settlement talks or trial, depending on how the evidence develops. Thorough work can uncover additional coverage or parties, and it can strengthen leverage by demonstrating a well-supported, carefully documented narrative of what went wrong and why.
If your child will require extensive support—therapies, home modifications, assistive technology, and in-home care—disagreements about long-term costs are common. A comprehensive plan allows us to develop a full damages picture, including projections for future services that promote independence and comfort. We work to translate medical recommendations into clear financial terms that insurers and courts understand. For Fairton families, this can involve collaborating with life care planners and compiling community-based resources. With a well-documented damages model, we can push for outcomes that reflect real-world needs, whether through structured settlements or trial, while always centering your child’s quality of life and growth.
A thoughtful, comprehensive strategy often delivers clarity. By documenting exposures, medical timelines, and projected needs, you create a roadmap that supports both negotiations and courtroom presentation. This preparation can surface additional insurance coverage, identify overlooked defendants, and prevent surprises that delay resolution. For Fairton families, it also means fewer “what-ifs” and greater confidence in each decision. We keep communication steady, provide regular updates, and invite your input at each milestone. The process respects your time and privacy while aligning efforts toward outcomes that support your child’s wellbeing now and in the years ahead.
Comprehensive planning enhances leverage. When opposing parties see a well-documented case supported by credible analysis, they are more likely to engage constructively. This can lead to settlements that better reflect future care, therapy, and educational needs. It also positions your family for trial should settlement talks stall. In Fairton, we pair detailed preparation with practical problem-solving—coordinating with providers, organizing bills, and ensuring key witnesses are preserved. The aim is a durable resolution that funds necessary services and reduces ongoing stress, allowing your energy to return to the most important work: caring for your child and building a supportive future.
Thorough preparation strengthens the foundation of your claim. Clear timelines, organized records, and well-supported causation make it easier to explain what happened and why support is warranted. In Fairton, this often includes local treatment records, pharmacy histories, and employment or environmental data. With a solid file, settlement discussions become more productive because the facts are difficult to ignore. The process also reduces the risk of last-minute surprises that can derail progress. Ultimately, comprehensive preparation provides momentum—helping you reach a resolution that reflects your child’s medical, educational, and daily living needs, backed by documentation that stands up to scrutiny.
A comprehensive approach looks beyond immediate bills to anticipate future therapies, adaptive equipment, and supportive services. This planning helps shape settlement terms that align with your child’s growth and changing needs. We translate care recommendations into budgets, identify community resources, and consider structured funds that can sustain long-term support. For Fairton families, clarity about the future reduces daily worry and aids decision-making about education, home life, and medical options. By focusing on a full life-care picture, we aim to secure resources that enhance comfort, independence, and opportunity at every stage, from early intervention through school and adulthood.
Write down appointments, prescriptions, test results, and key dates from pregnancy through diagnosis. Keep copies of ultrasound reports, lab results, discharge summaries, and pharmacy lists. A simple binder or digital folder helps keep everything in one place. In Fairton, request complete records from hospitals, clinics, and specialists, and note any discussions about risks or warnings. This timeline supports both medical care and any legal evaluation, giving consultants a clear picture of exposures and monitoring. The more organized your file, the easier it is to spot patterns, confirm dates, and move quickly if a deadline approaches under New Jersey law.
New Jersey has specific timelines for medical negligence and product liability, and separate rules may apply to minors. While tolling can extend deadlines, evidence is easier to secure early. In Fairton, request records promptly and avoid discussing case details on social media. If you suspect a product or environmental exposure, preserve packaging, note purchase dates, and ask about workplace safety testing. An early legal review helps identify which rules apply and whether any special notices are required. Acting steadily—not hastily—protects your options while giving room for a careful investigation that supports your child’s long-term interests.
Parents in Fairton often reach out because they want clarity. They may have questions about a prescription taken during pregnancy, a workplace exposure, or whether prenatal care addressed known risks. Others contact us after facing mounting costs for therapies and equipment, unsure how to plan long term. We review your concerns, discuss potential legal theories, and assess whether further investigation could help. Our initial goal is to provide a realistic picture of your options, potential timelines, and next steps so you can make informed decisions rooted in your child’s medical and everyday needs.
Another common reason is the desire to protect rights before deadlines pass. Statutes of limitations and notice requirements can affect options, even when a child is very young. Families also want a voice in settlement terms, including structures that align with therapy schedules, educational support, and future care. We aim to understand your priorities—privacy, timing, and financial planning—and build an approach that respects them. For Fairton families, that may include coordinating with local providers and community resources. Whether you seek early resolution or are prepared for litigation, we will guide the process with steady communication and practical solutions.
Birth defects claims can arise from a range of situations. Medications taken during pregnancy may carry risks that were not clearly communicated. Environmental exposures—such as solvents, pesticides, or contaminated water—can also be factors. Prenatal care that overlooks warning signs or fails to follow established guidelines may contribute to preventable outcomes. In Fairton, we see cases with overlapping causes, requiring careful analysis to determine what happened and who may be responsible. Our role is to organize the facts, consult appropriate resources, and pursue a path that supports your child’s long-term care while respecting your family’s values and privacy.
Some medications and consumer products can affect fetal development if used during pregnancy without adequate warnings or guidance. Labels may be unclear, or risks may emerge after a product reaches the market. In Fairton, we evaluate whether the product information matched known science at the time and whether safer alternatives were available. We gather pharmacy histories, prescribing notes, and manufacturer materials to assess potential liability. If your family faced unexpected outcomes, we can help review the timeline and explore claims focused on failure to warn, defect, or marketing practices that did not appropriately address pregnancy-related risks.
Workplace chemicals, household solvents, pesticides, and other environmental hazards can contribute to congenital conditions. Identifying the source and dose is often challenging, but methodical investigation can reveal patterns. In Fairton and greater Cumberland County, we examine employer safety records, MSDS sheets, water testing, and local environmental reports. We also review protective equipment policies and training. When evidence supports a connection, claims may involve negligent practices or product liability theories. Our goal is to align scientific information with your child’s medical history and secure support for therapies, adaptive equipment, and services that improve daily life and long-term outcomes.
Prenatal care that misses red flags—such as abnormal test results, medication interactions, or exposure concerns—can increase risk. While not every unfavorable outcome is preventable, providers are expected to follow accepted standards and communicate clearly. In Fairton, we review ultrasound reports, lab results, and clinical notes to evaluate whether ordered tests were appropriate and whether risks were discussed. If care deviated from established guidelines and contributed to harm, legal options may exist. We approach these reviews with respect for providers while advocating for families—seeking answers, accountability, and resources that support a child’s health, development, and quality of life.
Families choose us for clear communication and careful preparation. We explain each stage, provide regular updates, and welcome your input. Our approach centers on your child’s needs—today and years from now. In Fairton, that means coordinating with local providers, understanding school-based supports, and planning for future therapies. We handle the legal details while keeping the process understandable and manageable, so you always know what to expect and why.
We build cases methodically, guided by evidence and New Jersey law. From record collection to consultation with qualified medical professionals, we emphasize accuracy and organization. When settlement makes sense, we push for terms that reflect real costs and future care. If litigation is required, we arrive prepared. Either way, our goal is a resolution that supports your child’s comfort, development, and opportunities in the long term.
Our firm is accessible and responsive. Calls are returned, questions are answered, and you are kept in the loop. We know this process can be stressful. That’s why we prioritize respectful service and practical problem-solving. Located in New Jersey and serving Fairton, we offer flexible meeting options and considerate scheduling. When you are ready to talk, we are here to listen and help chart a clear path forward for your family.
Our process is designed to reduce stress and build strong cases. We start by listening to your story, reviewing records, and identifying immediate needs. Next, we gather evidence, consult appropriate resources, and evaluate liability and damages. With a clear plan, we engage in negotiations or file suit if needed. Throughout, we keep you informed and involved. For Fairton families, we adapt to your schedule and communicate in plain language. Every step is focused on your child’s wellbeing and securing resources that make a meaningful difference now and in the future.
We begin with a complimentary evaluation—by phone, video, or in person for Fairton families. You’ll share your concerns, medical history, and any suspected exposures. We provide a document checklist and discuss immediate deadlines. This stage helps us spot potential defendants and outline a plan for record collection and early preservation. If the case appears viable, we formalize representation and move into deeper investigation, always maintaining clear communication and realistic expectations about timing and outcomes.
Your perspective is vital. We walk through the pregnancy timeline, medications, prenatal appointments, test results, and when you first learned of the condition. We also ask about work or environmental exposures and family medical history. In Fairton, we can coordinate with local providers to gather missing records. By understanding your goals and concerns, we can tailor the plan—whether you prefer early negotiations or a thorough investigation aimed at later mediation or trial.
We obtain medical charts, pharmacy logs, imaging, lab results, and relevant communications. We also review product labels, safety data sheets, and environmental reports where applicable. This early review helps identify red flags, confirm timelines, and set priorities for further analysis. For Fairton families, we create an organized file and summary so you can follow along. Our goal is to quickly determine whether the available evidence supports moving forward and what additional information could strengthen your case.
During investigation, we deepen the record, conduct interviews, and consult appropriate medical and scientific resources. We analyze causation, evaluate damages, and explore insurance coverage and responsible parties. In Fairton, we also consider local environmental data and employer safety practices, where relevant. When the file is ready, we prepare a demand package designed to prompt productive settlement talks. If negotiations are not constructive, we are prepared to file suit and litigate with a clear, organized case theory.
We collect additional medical records, obtain pharmacy data, secure workplace safety documents, and request environmental reports. We may speak with treating providers and witnesses, and we assemble scientific literature related to alleged exposures or prenatal care. In Fairton, we coordinate site-specific information and community resources that impact your child’s daily life. This evidence forms the backbone of negotiations and any litigation, ensuring your case rests on reliable facts and sound analysis.
Appropriate consultants help evaluate causation and damages. We share records, timelines, and exposure data to assess whether the science supports your claims. These reviews can refine strategy, inform settlement demands, and prepare for depositions or trial. We then translate findings into clear explanations and visual aids. For Fairton families, our aim is to keep the process transparent and accessible so you understand how opinions support the case and what additional information might strengthen it.
With a well-documented file, we pursue resolution through structured negotiations or, if needed, litigation in New Jersey courts. We prepare demand letters, engage in mediation, and, where appropriate, file suit and conduct discovery. In Fairton, we balance efficiency with thoroughness, always centering your child’s needs. Whether resolution comes through settlement or a court decision, we work to secure resources that support therapies, school services, and daily living—now and in the future.
When possible, we begin with settlement discussions supported by clear evidence and a detailed damages model. Mediation can bring parties together efficiently, particularly when liability is partially contested but damages are the main dispute. We prepare thoroughly, ensuring your family’s needs are presented with care and accuracy. For Fairton families, this approach can reduce stress and accelerate access to needed resources without compromising long-term planning or accountability.
If negotiations fail, we proceed with litigation. We draft pleadings, conduct discovery, take depositions, and prepare expert disclosures. Throughout, we continue exploring resolution while building a strong trial record. For Fairton cases, we keep you updated on each milestone and what to expect in court. Trial readiness encourages fair offers and ensures we are prepared to seek a verdict that reflects your child’s needs and the responsibility of those who contributed to the harm.
A birth defect is a condition present at birth that affects the structure or function of the body. Causes include genetics, environmental factors, medications, infections, or unknown reasons. A birth injury typically occurs during labor or delivery due to trauma or inadequate care. The legal approach may differ depending on whether the condition formed during fetal development or resulted from events around delivery. In Fairton, we evaluate medical records, pregnancy timelines, and delivery details to understand what happened. For alleged defects, we focus on exposures and prenatal care. For injuries, we consider labor monitoring, interventions, and response times. Some cases involve both. Our goal is to identify the responsible parties, clarify causation, and pursue resources that support your child’s long-term needs.
Yes. Many families begin without certainty about the cause. The first steps involve collecting medical records, building a timeline, and identifying potential exposures or product use. We then consult appropriate resources to determine whether the science supports a connection. Even when answers are not immediate, a structured investigation can clarify options and whether a claim is viable under New Jersey law. In Fairton, early action helps preserve evidence and meet deadlines. We discuss realistic expectations about what can be proven, the time needed for reviews, and potential outcomes. If the evidence supports a claim, we outline next steps. If it does not, you will still gain clarity about care planning and available community and insurance resources for your child.
Deadlines vary based on the type of claim, including medical negligence or product liability, and special rules may extend time for minors. However, evidence issues and notice requirements can still make early action wise. The clock may be influenced by when the condition was discovered or should have been discovered, and by who is bringing the claim. For Fairton families, we recommend a prompt review to protect your rights. We will analyze records and dates, advise on applicable New Jersey statutes, and create a plan to move forward without rushing important steps. Early engagement preserves flexibility, improves access to evidence, and supports a measured, effective strategy for your child’s case.
Potential compensation can include medical expenses, therapies, assistive devices, in-home support, transportation for appointments, and educational services. Non-economic damages may address pain and suffering and impact on quality of life, subject to New Jersey law. In some cases, structured settlements can help fund long-term care in a predictable way that aligns with your child’s development. We work with Fairton families to capture both present and future needs, translating treatment plans into realistic budgets. We coordinate records, invoices, and professional recommendations, and we present these costs clearly to insurers or the court. Our focus is securing resources that genuinely support your child’s health, learning, and daily living over time.
Proving a causal link involves aligning medical and scientific evidence with your family’s timeline. We review records, prescriptions, exposure histories, and scientific literature about the suspected agent. Qualified consultants may provide opinions using accepted methodologies. Strong documentation and reliable sources are essential to move beyond speculation and establish a persuasive connection. For Fairton cases, we also consider environmental data, workplace safety practices, and product labeling. We explore alternative causes and address them directly, strengthening the overall analysis. This thorough approach supports negotiations and prepares the case for litigation if needed. The more complete the evidence, the better our ability to advocate for meaningful support for your child.
Potentially, yes. If prenatal care fell below accepted standards—such as failing to order necessary tests, overlooking abnormal results, or not communicating known risks—there may be a basis for a claim. Not every unfavorable outcome indicates negligence; the question is whether care met established guidelines and whether a different approach could have reduced the risk of harm. In Fairton, we review ultrasound reports, lab results, office notes, and communications about medications or exposures. We compare actions taken with accepted practices. If the record suggests missed opportunities or inadequate counseling that contributed to the outcome, we discuss options to pursue accountability and resources that support your child’s long-term needs.
Many birth defects cases involve multiple contributors, such as a product manufacturer and a healthcare provider, or overlapping environmental and workplace exposures. New Jersey law allows claims against more than one party when supported by evidence. We analyze each potential defendant’s role and insurance coverage and consider apportionment of responsibility. For Fairton families, this means methodical preparation to avoid gaps. We build a cohesive timeline, gather targeted records, and coordinate expert reviews. A clear narrative of how each party’s conduct contributed strengthens leverage in settlement talks and prepares the case for trial if needed. The objective is a result that reflects the full scope of your child’s needs.
Filing a claim should not interfere with your child’s medical care. We encourage families to continue treatment and follow providers’ recommendations. We coordinate record collection to minimize disruption and do our best to schedule legal steps around appointments, school, and daily routines. In Fairton, we can often handle much of the work remotely and communicate by phone or video. If a provider asks about the case, we can help you understand how to respond appropriately. Our goal is to keep the legal process in the background while ensuring your child receives uninterrupted, high-quality care and support.
We offer a free initial consultation. For many birth defects cases, we work on a contingency fee, which means you pay no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you. We discuss costs and potential expenses upfront so there are no surprises. If a different arrangement fits better, we will explain options. For Fairton families, transparency is important. We provide a written agreement outlining fees, costs, and responsibilities. Throughout the case, we update you on expenses and seek your approval for significant steps. Our goal is to align strategy with your family’s priorities while keeping financial considerations clear and manageable.
Bring any medical records you have, including prenatal charts, ultrasound reports, lab results, and discharge summaries. Pharmacy lists, medication packaging, and receipts are helpful. If you suspect environmental or workplace exposure, bring safety documents, MSDS sheets, or employer communications. A written timeline of key dates is also valuable. For Fairton residents, we can help request missing records after our meeting. If you have questions written down, bring them—we will address each one. The goal of the first consultation is to understand your concerns, outline options, and create a plan to gather the evidence needed for a thorough evaluation under New Jersey law.