Facing a criminal charge or recovering from an injury in Livingston can feel overwhelming. At the Law Office of Edward Appel, we guide clients through each step with clear direction and practical solutions tailored to New Jersey law. From municipal court matters to Superior Court cases and serious accident claims, we focus on protecting your rights, your record, and your recovery. Our Livingston-focused approach means we understand local courts, insurers, and procedures across Essex County. If you or a loved one needs help, call 856-856-2373 to speak with our team and get straightforward answers about your options and next steps.
Criminal Defense, DUI, and Personal Injury cases move quickly in New Jersey, and early decisions can shape the outcome. Whether you were stopped on Eisenhower Parkway or injured in a crash near Route 10, we work to secure evidence, manage deadlines, and position your case for the strongest resolution available. Our firm values communication, preparation, and respect for every client’s goals. We can step in to negotiate with prosecutors or insurers, build a defense strategy, or pursue full compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Reach out to learn how we can support you from day one.
When legal trouble or an unexpected injury occurs in Livingston, prompt guidance can prevent small issues from becoming larger problems. Early involvement allows your lawyer to preserve video, witness statements, and critical records before they disappear. In criminal matters, proactive advocacy can influence charging decisions, conditions of release, and diversion opportunities. In injury cases, timely medical documentation and claim notices can shape liability assessments and settlement value. Working with a local New Jersey attorney ensures your strategy reflects Essex County practices and deadlines, helping you avoid costly missteps while pursuing a fair result through negotiation or, when needed, in court.
The Law Office of Edward Appel represents individuals and families in Livingston and throughout Essex County in criminal defense, DUI, and personal injury matters. We emphasize careful case evaluation, thorough preparation, and consistent communication so clients always know what to expect. Our approach is built on real-world problem solving—meeting clients where they are, identifying the most important goals, and executing a plan to pursue them. From arraignments to settlement conferences, we handle the details and keep you informed. Clients choose our firm for local insight, steady guidance, and a commitment to practical results grounded in New Jersey law and procedure.
Criminal defense in New Jersey ranges from municipal court offenses to indictable matters handled in Superior Court. A strong defense focuses on challenging the State’s evidence, protecting your constitutional rights, and exploring outcomes such as dismissals, amendments, or diversion programs when available. DUI cases have specific deadlines and technical issues involving probable cause, field testing, and breath or blood results. Each step—from first appearance to resolution—presents opportunities to improve your position. In Livingston, coordinating with Essex County prosecutors and understanding local court practices can shape strategy and timing, helping you make informed decisions with clarity and confidence.
In personal injury cases, New Jersey’s insurance rules and comparative negligence law influence recovery. After a crash, fall, or other injury in Livingston, prompt medical care, incident reports, and photographs can become key evidence. Insurers often move quickly to limit exposure, so responding strategically matters. Your claim may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, subject to policy terms and state law. We prepare claims with detail, negotiate with adjusters, and, when necessary, file suit in Essex County Superior Court. Our goal is to position your case for a fair settlement while remaining ready to litigate if needed.
A criminal case is the State of New Jersey alleging that a law was violated, with penalties that can include fines, probation, or incarceration. Defending the case often involves scrutinizing stops, searches, statements, and testing procedures, along with potential defenses or mitigating factors. A personal injury claim seeks compensation from a responsible party or insurer when someone is harmed by negligence, such as distracted driving or unsafe property conditions. These claims require proof of fault and damages. Both types of matters benefit from early investigation, organized documentation, and a plan that accounts for deadlines, evidence rules, and negotiation leverage.
For criminal and DUI cases, key elements include the initial stop or incident, probable cause, charging decisions, discovery review, motion practice, and resolution through plea, diversion, or trial. For personal injury, the process typically involves investigation, medical treatment documentation, liability analysis, claim filing, negotiation, and litigation when appropriate. In both areas, timing is essential: discovery demands, preservation letters, and court filings must be handled promptly. Local knowledge of Livingston Municipal Court and Essex County Superior Court practices can improve efficiency and predictability. Throughout, you should expect clear communication, frequent updates, and candid guidance as your matter progresses.
Legal terms often appear in paperwork and court hearings, and understanding them helps you make informed choices. The following definitions provide plain-language explanations you can use to follow discussions with prosecutors, adjusters, and judges. While every case is unique, these concepts appear frequently in Livingston criminal, DUI, and injury matters. We will explain how each term applies to your facts, what evidence is needed, and how timing or strategy can affect potential outcomes. If a term is unfamiliar during your case, ask us to clarify. We aim to keep the process accessible, transparent, and focused on your goals from start to finish.
An arraignment is an early court appearance where charges are formally presented and you enter a plea. In New Jersey, this is also a chance to address release conditions and scheduling. While no final decisions are made at this stage, choices here can influence the timeline and strategy. You should avoid making statements about the facts of the case and instead focus on ensuring you have counsel, understanding the allegations, and confirming dates. We use arraignments to secure discovery promptly, address any immediate issues, and begin preparing motions or negotiations tailored to the facts and your priorities.
A statute of limitations is the deadline for filing a lawsuit. In New Jersey personal injury cases, most claims must be filed within a specific period, with shorter timelines for claims against public entities that require notices. Missing a deadline can bar recovery, so acting promptly is essential. Criminal cases have separate timing rules that affect charging decisions rather than defense filings. We track all relevant deadlines, send preservation letters when needed, and file on time to protect your rights. If you believe a deadline may be approaching, contact us immediately so we can evaluate and take appropriate action.
Probable cause means police must have a reasonable basis to believe a law was violated before making an arrest or conducting certain searches. In DUI cases, it involves observations, field tests, and other indicators supporting further testing. If probable cause is lacking, evidence may be suppressed, weakening the State’s case. We examine reports, body-worn camera footage, and witness accounts to challenge unjustified stops or searches. In injury matters, the concept differs but still touches investigations when identifying fault and building credible narratives. A careful review of probable cause issues can play a significant role in negotiations and litigation.
Comparative negligence allocates responsibility when more than one party contributes to an accident. In New Jersey, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault, and recovery may be barred if your share exceeds a certain threshold. Insurers often use this doctrine to argue for lower settlements. We address comparative negligence by gathering photos, videos, witness accounts, and expert input when needed to clarify how the incident occurred. Clear documentation and consistent medical records help present a credible claim. Understanding how comparative negligence applies can influence settlement strategy and whether pursuing litigation makes sense in a Livingston case.
You can handle a matter alone, seek a public defender if eligible in criminal matters, or retain private counsel. Self-representation may appear cost-effective but can risk missed defenses, undervalued claims, or unfavorable terms. Public defenders work hard but may have heavy caseloads that limit personalized attention. Hiring a private attorney offers direct access, tailored strategy, and flexible timelines that fit your goals. In injury cases, you can accept an early offer or build a comprehensive claim with documentation and negotiation leverage. We evaluate your situation, outline pros and cons, and recommend a path based on your needs and budget.
Some municipal court issues, such as certain traffic tickets or ordinance violations, may be resolved efficiently with targeted advocacy and prompt documentation. If the facts are straightforward, the evidence is limited, and your record is clean, a narrow approach can conserve time and costs while still protecting important interests like points and insurance rates. We still review discovery, check for procedural errors, and ensure any resolution aligns with your goals. Even in seemingly simple situations, a brief consultation helps confirm whether a streamlined strategy is appropriate and whether any unforeseen consequences could arise from a quick decision.
In some personal injury claims where liability is plain and injuries are limited, a focused claim package with medical records, billing, and lost wage verification may be sufficient to reach a fair settlement. We organize the file, address insurer questions, and keep costs proportional to the expected recovery. If new information emerges—such as lingering symptoms or disputed causation—we can shift to a more involved approach. The goal is to align effort with outcome, avoid unnecessary delays, and deliver a result that reflects the facts. A brief evaluation helps determine whether a limited strategy is sensible in your specific case.
Felony-level charges, multi-count complaints, or DUI cases involving accidents require detailed investigation and motion practice. Breath or blood testing, accident reconstruction, and body-worn camera footage must be carefully reviewed. We coordinate experts when appropriate, challenge flawed procedures, and negotiate from a position built on facts and law. Comprehensive representation also addresses collateral issues like employment, licensing, or immigration concerns. With higher stakes and technical evidence, a hands-on approach aims to protect your record and future opportunities, while ensuring your rights are observed at every stage of the Livingston and Essex County court process.
When injuries are severe, future care is likely, or liability is contested, a comprehensive approach helps support a full valuation. We obtain specialist reports, gather employment records for wage loss, and develop evidence to counter comparative negligence arguments. Litigation may be necessary if the insurer refuses to recognize the true impact of the harm. By preparing the case as if it will go to trial, we strengthen negotiations and ensure deadlines are met. This methodical process can be decisive in Essex County Superior Court, helping move the matter toward a settlement or verdict that reflects the damages sustained.
A comprehensive approach creates leverage. In criminal and DUI matters, early motions, targeted discovery, and careful review of procedures can expose weaknesses that change negotiations. In injury cases, full documentation of treatment, prognosis, and economic losses helps insurers recognize risk and value. Thorough preparation supports informed client decisions, reduces surprises, and keeps the case moving on a realistic schedule. This approach also ensures that if settlement talks stall, your case is ready for court. In Livingston and across Essex County, a combination of preparation, communication, and persistence can make a meaningful difference in outcomes.
Beyond leverage, comprehensive representation brings clarity. You receive consistent updates, clear explanations of options, and guidance tailored to your goals. When timelines compress, we already have the key evidence organized and deadlines mapped, reducing stress and delays. If an offer arrives, you will understand what it means and what alternative paths could look like. In both defense and injury cases, this level of readiness helps avoid rushed choices. We align strategy with your priorities, whether that means minimizing penalties, protecting your record, or maximizing recovery. The result is a steady plan you can trust throughout the process.
Building the record early often shifts the balance in your favor. In defense cases, we pursue videos, dispatch logs, and lab records to identify procedural flaws or inconsistencies. In injury matters, we compile medical timelines, imaging, and wage documentation to support damages. With organized proof, negotiations become more substantive and less speculative. Opposing parties recognize risk, which can prompt better terms. If talks stall, a well-documented file transitions smoothly into motion practice or trial preparation. This method gives you options, reduces uncertainty, and often accelerates the path to a fair resolution in Livingston and Essex County courts.
Comprehensive representation includes consistent check-ins, written updates, and plain-language explanations. We set expectations about timing, potential outcomes, and what you can do to help your case. Predictable progress reduces anxiety and prevents missed opportunities, like diversion programs or settlement windows. By assigning action items and tracking deadlines, we keep momentum without sacrificing accuracy. This transparency helps you weigh choices confidently, from accepting an offer to proceeding in court. In Livingston, where cases can move quickly, reliable communication ensures no step is overlooked and that every filing, conference, and negotiation serves your long-term goals.
Whether speaking to police after an arrest or to an insurance adjuster after a crash, unguarded statements can create avoidable hurdles. Politely decline to discuss details until you have legal guidance. Even brief comments may be recorded or summarized in ways that harm your position. Instead, focus on safety and necessary information exchange, such as identification and insurance in an accident. Then contact our office so we can evaluate the situation, protect your rights, and communicate on your behalf. Early guidance helps prevent misunderstandings that can shape negotiations, court decisions, and the overall value of your case.
New Jersey matters involve strict timelines, from arraignments and discovery to insurance notices and statutes of limitations. Missing a deadline can reduce options or bar claims. Contact us as soon as possible so we can preserve evidence, request discovery, and file required notices. In Livingston, insurers and courts expect prompt action, and early steps can affect leverage and outcomes. Even if you are unsure about hiring counsel, a consultation can help you understand the schedule ahead and avoid missteps. We will provide a timeline tailored to your case and track it to keep your matter on course.
Consider calling our office if you were arrested, received a summons, or were injured in an accident. Early advice can influence conditions of release, negotiations, and access to diversion opportunities. In injury matters, quick action can preserve video footage, scene evidence, and witness identities that support liability and damages. If you have questions about insurance coverage, medical liens, or handling calls from adjusters, we can step in to coordinate communications and keep the process organized. A short conversation can clarify your options, expected timelines, and costs so you can decide the best path forward.
You may also benefit from legal help if your case involves complex evidence, prior history, disputed fault, or potential employment or licensing consequences. We routinely work with clients who need discreet guidance, clear communication, and an efficient plan. Our role is to identify the issues that matter most, provide realistic expectations, and fight for a result that aligns with your goals. Whether you are navigating Livingston Municipal Court or preparing a claim for Essex County Superior Court, we are ready to help you move from uncertainty to a practical strategy with steady support at each step.
We frequently assist clients with DUI and municipal offenses, indictable charges in Essex County Superior Court, and injury claims from car crashes, falls, and unsafe property conditions. Many matters begin with a traffic stop, a police call, or an unexpected collision near Route 10 or local intersections. Others involve store incidents, apartment hazards, or workplace-related injuries involving third parties. No matter how your case started, we help organize evidence, protect your rights, and communicate with the court or insurers. If you are unsure whether your situation requires counsel, a quick call can bring clarity and a plan.
Stops that lead to DUI charges or multiple traffic citations move swiftly. We evaluate the basis for the stop, field tests, and breath results, and determine whether procedures were followed. Our goal is to protect your record, reduce penalties, or challenge the case when appropriate. We also seek alternatives, such as amendments or conditions that support a favorable resolution. From scheduling to discovery, we handle the details so you can focus on work and family. If you were stopped in Livingston, contact us quickly to discuss your rights and the steps we can take on your behalf.
Collisions on Route 10, Livingston Avenue, or local roads can cause serious injuries and financial strain. We coordinate medical documentation, evaluate liability, and present a clear demand to insurers. When necessary, we file suit in Essex County Superior Court and pursue discovery to support your claim. Our approach emphasizes thorough evidence, responsive communication, and realistic timelines. We handle calls from adjusters, gather wage records, and manage lien issues so you can focus on recovery. If the other driver disputes fault or coverage is unclear, we will investigate and pursue a path aimed at fair compensation.
Allegations of shoplifting, simple assault, or disorderly conduct can affect employment, schooling, and future opportunities. We review the evidence, explore diversion or amendment options when available, and prepare mitigation to present your story effectively. Our aim is to reduce exposure and protect your record while guiding you through Livingston Municipal Court requirements. We communicate with prosecutors professionally, pursue discovery promptly, and file motions where warranted. If your situation involves misunderstandings, identification issues, or self-defense, we will develop a strategy to address those facts. Contact us to discuss how we can help stabilize the situation and move forward.
Clients turn to our firm for steady guidance, careful preparation, and clear communication. We focus on practical results that fit your priorities—whether that means protecting your record, minimizing penalties, or pursuing full and fair compensation after an injury. Our Livingston and Essex County focus helps us anticipate procedures, preferences, and timelines in local courts. We treat every case with diligence and respect, providing plain-language updates and realistic expectations so you can make confident decisions at every step.
From the start, we prioritize evidence collection and strategy. In defense matters, we scrutinize stops, searches, and testing, file motions when appropriate, and explore alternatives that may improve outcomes. In injury cases, we build comprehensive demand packages that document diagnosis, treatment, and financial loss. We negotiate with insurers and are prepared to litigate if necessary. Throughout, we remain accessible to answer questions and adjust the plan as new information develops, ensuring the case moves forward with purpose.
We understand that cost and convenience matter. We discuss fees transparently and tailor our involvement to the needs of your case. Injury matters are typically handled on a contingency basis, and defense matters can be structured to reflect complexity and anticipated workload. Most importantly, you will always know what is happening and why. Our goal is to deliver dependable representation that reduces stress, protects your interests, and helps you reach a resolution that supports your future.
We start with a focused consultation to understand your goals and timeline. Then we move quickly to secure evidence, request discovery, and identify key issues that will drive strategy. You will receive a written plan outlining milestones, expected filings, and decision points. In defense cases, we prepare motions and negotiations in parallel to preserve options. In injury matters, we coordinate medical records and craft a comprehensive demand. If litigation becomes necessary, we are ready. At every step, you can expect prompt updates, clear explanations, and a path designed to keep your matter moving forward efficiently.
During the initial phase, we gather facts, review any paperwork, and identify urgent needs, such as preserving video, securing witness statements, or addressing release conditions. We provide immediate guidance on communications with police, prosecutors, or insurers. This is also when we map out deadlines, discuss potential strategies, and assign tasks to keep momentum. Our goal is to stabilize the situation quickly and protect your rights from the outset. You leave this phase with a clear understanding of next steps and how we will proceed in Livingston courts or with insurance companies.
We conduct a detailed intake and begin preserving evidence through letters, record requests, and, when appropriate, site inspections or investigator outreach. In criminal matters, we request discovery promptly and analyze the basis for the stop, search, or arrest. In injury cases, we gather medical records, imaging, and proof of lost income. This early organization prevents delays and strengthens your position in negotiations. It also ensures we can take advantage of opportunities that arise, such as diversion programs or early settlement windows, while keeping your case aligned with Livingston and Essex County procedures.
Once we understand the facts and available evidence, we align strategy with your goals—protecting your record, minimizing penalties, or maximizing recovery. We build a calendar with milestones for motions, settlement discussions, and potential court dates. You will know what to expect and when. We also outline what you can do to help, from attending appointments to keeping records organized. Clear planning reduces surprises, creates accountability, and keeps your case moving. This foundation supports effective negotiation and, if necessary, litigation in Essex County Superior Court or Livingston Municipal Court.
With the groundwork complete, we refine the case through targeted discovery, expert consultation when needed, and persuasive presentation of facts and law. In criminal matters, we prepare motions and mitigation materials and pursue negotiations informed by the strengths and risks we identify. In injury cases, we prepare a detailed demand package and engage insurers with evidence-backed arguments. Our goal is meaningful dialogue that leads to resolutions aligned with your objectives. Throughout, we keep you updated, adjust strategy as new information emerges, and remain ready to pivot to litigation when negotiations stall.
We analyze discovery, file motions where appropriate, and build a record that supports your position. For injury cases, we prepare a comprehensive demand with medical summaries, billing, and wage loss documentation. For defense cases, we craft legal arguments to challenge procedures or evidence. This work sets the stage for productive negotiations by clarifying strengths and addressing weaknesses. It also ensures the case is trial-ready if needed. Clear, well-documented files help opposing parties recognize risk and encourage fair resolutions, especially in the Livingston and Essex County legal environment.
We negotiate with a focus on outcomes that reflect your priorities. In defense matters, that could mean reduced charges or alternative dispositions. In injury cases, it means fair compensation for medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering. We present organized evidence, address counterarguments, and maintain momentum toward resolution. If offers do not align with the merits of your case, we advise on litigation or trial options. You receive candid guidance on risks and benefits so you can make informed decisions at each turn.
When litigation is necessary, we proceed with filings, discovery, and hearings while continuing to evaluate settlement opportunities. We prepare you for court, explain each step, and coordinate witnesses and exhibits. In defense cases, we pursue motions, conduct hearings, and, if required, try the case. In injury matters, we manage depositions, retain experts when appropriate, and position for trial. After resolution, we help with any final tasks, such as expungement eligibility review or lien negotiations. The goal is a complete, orderly conclusion that protects your interests and supports your next chapter.
We prepare thoroughly for court by organizing exhibits, outlining testimony, and ensuring compliance with evidentiary rules. In criminal matters, we continue challenging weaknesses in the State’s case and present mitigation when appropriate. In injury cases, we solidify medical proof and damages with clear documentation and credible witnesses. Throughout trial preparation, we reassess settlement options and provide updates so decisions can be made with the full picture in view. Our focus is to present your case clearly, respectfully, and persuasively in Livingston and Essex County courts.
After a case resolves, important tasks remain. In injury claims, we address liens, finalize paperwork, and ensure funds are distributed appropriately. In defense matters, we discuss compliance, potential expungement, and ways to minimize collateral consequences. We also debrief the case to identify lessons and provide guidance for the future. This closing phase ensures nothing is overlooked and that you have what you need to move forward. If new issues arise, we remain available to help, offering continuity and support beyond the courtroom or settlement table.
Stay calm, use your right to remain silent, and request a lawyer. Do not discuss the facts of the case with anyone other than your attorney. Be respectful with officers but avoid volunteering information or consenting to searches without guidance. If given paperwork, keep everything and share it with us. We will review the allegations, advise you on next steps, and work to protect your rights from the beginning. Contact the Law Office of Edward Appel promptly at 856-856-2373. Early involvement allows us to address release conditions, preserve evidence, and request discovery. We will prepare you for the first court date, explain your options in plain language, and build a strategy focused on your goals. Having steady guidance early can shape the direction and outcome of your case.
New Jersey uses a risk-based system to determine conditions of release rather than traditional cash bail in most cases. Courts consider factors such as the nature of the charges, history, and ties to the community. Conditions can include reporting, no-contact orders, or other restrictions tailored to the case. We advocate for reasonable terms and ensure you understand and comply with all requirements. If you are detained, we can request a hearing to challenge detention and present information that supports release. Preparation matters. We gather employment proof, community ties, and other materials to support your position. Our goal is to secure conditions that allow you to maintain stability while we address the case on the merits.
A disorderly persons offense is handled in municipal court and is similar to a misdemeanor in other states, carrying potential fines, probation, or limited jail exposure. Indictable offenses, comparable to felonies, are prosecuted in Superior Court and carry more serious potential penalties. The forum, procedures, and discovery are different, and the impact on your record may be greater in indictable matters. We assess the evidence, explore ways to amend or reduce charges, and prepare motions or mitigation as needed. Whether your case is in Livingston Municipal Court or Essex County Superior Court, we guide you through each stage and work toward the outcome that best protects your future.
Ensure safety, call 911 if needed, and seek medical attention, even for symptoms that seem minor. Document the scene with photos and gather names of witnesses. Exchange insurance information but avoid detailed statements about fault. Promptly notify your insurer, and contact our office to discuss protecting your claim and managing communications with adjusters. We will collect medical records, verify lost wages, and evaluate liability. When appropriate, we send preservation letters to secure video and other evidence. Our team prepares a demand package that reflects your injuries and financial impact. If the insurer disputes fault or value, we are ready to file suit in Essex County Superior Court and pursue a fair resolution.
Most New Jersey personal injury claims have a two-year statute of limitations, though deadlines can vary, especially for claims involving public entities that require early notice. Waiting can risk losing evidence and leverage, even if the deadline is months away. Contact us quickly so we can evaluate your timeline and preserve your rights. We track all deadlines, gather documentation, and prepare your claim in stages to keep momentum. If settlement is not feasible, we file within the required period and continue building your case. Clear planning ensures your claim remains timely and strategically positioned throughout the process.
Many cases resolve without trial through negotiated dispositions in criminal matters or settlements in injury claims. Whether settlement is likely depends on evidence strength, legal issues, and your goals. We pursue fair offers while preparing your case as if it will proceed to court, which often improves negotiation leverage. If trial becomes necessary, we will explain the process, prepare you and any witnesses, and advocate for your position. You will receive candid advice about risks and benefits so you can decide confidently. Our approach aims for the right outcome, whether that means a negotiated resolution or a day in court.
For personal injury cases, we typically use a contingency fee, meaning you pay no attorney fee unless there is a recovery, subject to a written agreement outlining terms. Case costs are discussed upfront, and we provide updates so there are no surprises. This structure helps align effort with your goals. Criminal and DUI matters are generally billed on a flat or hourly basis, depending on complexity and anticipated motion practice. We discuss fees at the consultation, provide a clear engagement letter, and tailor the scope of work to your needs. Transparency and communication guide every step.
You can, but it carries risk. Adjusters are trained to limit payouts, and casual comments can be interpreted against you. Before giving a recorded statement or signing medical authorizations, consider consulting a lawyer who can prepare you and protect your claim. We handle communications so you can focus on recovery. If you already spoke with an insurer, we can step in and manage the process moving forward. We will correct misunderstandings, gather complete records, and present your claim with organized evidence. Strategic communication often leads to clearer evaluations and more productive settlement discussions.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own policy’s UM/UIM coverage may apply. These claims follow specific procedures and deadlines and can be as contested as claims against other insurers. We review your policy, document damages, and pursue all available coverage. We also evaluate potential third-party liability, such as roadway hazards or negligent maintenance, when facts support it. Our goal is to identify every viable source of recovery and position your claim for a fair outcome. Clear documentation and early action are especially important in UM/UIM matters.
Yes. We serve clients in Livingston, Essex County, and surrounding New Jersey communities. We appear in Livingston Municipal Court and Essex County Superior Court and coordinate with local prosecutors, court staff, and insurers to move cases forward efficiently. Whether your case involves criminal defense, DUI, or personal injury, we adapt our approach to the forum and facts. Call 856-856-2373 to schedule a consultation with the Law Office of Edward Appel. We will explain the process, provide an initial plan, and start protecting your interests immediately.