If you were charged with theft in Princeton, the decisions you make in the first few days can shape your entire case. New Jersey law treats theft offenses seriously, and outcomes can range from diversion opportunities to fines, probation, and even jail time depending on the circumstances and alleged value. The Law Office of Edward Appel helps people navigate these moments with steady, practical guidance tailored to the courts serving Princeton and Mercer County. We focus on clear communication and prompt action so you understand options, risks, and timelines. If you have a summons to Princeton Municipal Court or a notice for Mercer County Superior Court, it’s wise to get direction before your first appearance.
Every theft case is unique. Some begin with a shoplifting stop at a local retailer; others involve a misunderstanding over property, a return dispute, or allegations connected to online sales. Evidence can include store video, point-of-sale records, text messages, or statements given in the heat of the moment. Our role is to carefully examine what the State intends to use and develop a strategy that aligns with your goals—whether that’s dismissal, a negotiated reduction, or seeking a diversionary program when eligible. For straightforward and responsive help in Princeton, call the Law Office of Edward Appel at 856-856-2373 to talk through your situation and next steps.
Early guidance can make a meaningful difference in theft cases handled in Princeton and across Mercer County. Acting quickly allows your defense to preserve surveillance footage, secure witness statements, and correct misunderstandings before they take root. It also positions you to pursue options such as conditional dismissals or Pretrial Intervention when available and appropriate. A timely plan helps you avoid avoidable pitfalls—like making statements without context or missing important court dates—that can limit negotiating room later. With a focused approach, you can address restitution, civil demand letters, or store bans in a way that supports your legal defense. The sooner you understand the process, the more control you can regain over what happens next.
The Law Office of Edward Appel is a Personal Injury, Criminal Defense, and DUI law firm serving clients throughout New Jersey, including Princeton in Mercer County. We take a practical, client-first approach: clear explanations, responsive communication, and strategies tailored to the realities of each court. Theft allegations can be stressful and confusing, so we prioritize access and transparency—what to expect at each stage, what the prosecutor may consider, and how to measure progress. Whether your case is set in Princeton Municipal Court or could be handled at Mercer County Superior Court based on the value, our aim is to help you make informed decisions with confidence and work toward the result that fits your life and goals.
New Jersey theft law (including N.J.S.A. 2C:20 provisions) covers a range of conduct, from shoplifting and receiving stolen property to theft by deception. The level of a charge often turns on the value involved, prior history, and additional factors like alleged planning or use of force. Lower-level matters commonly proceed in municipal court, while more serious accusations move to Superior Court. For Princeton residents and visitors, this means a case could begin with a complaint-summons and quickly move into arraignment, discovery, and negotiation. Knowing where your case falls on this spectrum helps determine defenses, eligibility for diversion, and whether restitution discussions may help advance a favorable resolution.
A theft defense commonly examines intent, identification, inventory accuracy, and the reliability of store or third-party evidence. In shoplifting situations, for example, exit footage, receipt logs, and loss-prevention reports can be contrasted with your account and mitigating circumstances. In property disputes, messages, ownership records, or incomplete returns may shed light on misunderstandings. Early attorney involvement in Princeton allows you to gather and preserve materials that support your narrative, explore options like conditional dismissals where appropriate, and avoid statements that complicate defenses. The law is detail-driven, but a clear plan can reduce anxiety, help you stay organized, and place you in the strongest position possible.
Under New Jersey law, theft generally involves unlawfully taking or exercising control over property of another with the purpose to deprive the owner of it. This can include shoplifting, theft by deception, receiving stolen property, or theft of services. The State must prove intent and value, and those details often become the focus of the defense. In practice, many Princeton cases arise from retail incidents, returns, or online transactions that escalated into police involvement. The defense may challenge the accuracy of valuations, the sufficiency of identification, or the interpretation of store policies. Each case turns on evidence, and even small details can change the available outcomes.
Most theft cases focus on three questions: what happened, what can be proven, and what resolution is realistic. The process typically includes an initial appearance, discovery exchange, potential motion practice, and plea discussions. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds toward trial. In Princeton Municipal Court, disorderly persons shoplifting or related charges are common; larger-value cases may be handled at Mercer County Superior Court. Your defense can examine surveillance, chain-of-custody issues, witness reliability, and whether the alleged value matches the evidence. Along the way, your attorney can discuss diversion eligibility, restitution considerations, and the impact of any prior history on the path forward.
Legal terms can feel unfamiliar, especially during the stress of a recent charge. Understanding core vocabulary helps you follow your case and participate in decisions that affect your future. Below are common terms you may hear while addressing a theft allegation in Princeton or Mercer County. They come up in police reports, prosecutor discussions, and court appearances, and they can influence both strategy and timelines. If any term is unclear, ask for a plain-language explanation—clarity leads to better choices, more effective preparation, and fewer surprises. The goal is to translate legal jargon into actionable steps so you feel informed and supported at every stage.
A New Jersey offense handled in municipal court, similar to a misdemeanor in other states. In theft contexts, it often involves lower-value shoplifting or related accusations. Penalties can include fines, probation, community service, and potential jail time. Although not a crime under New Jersey’s classification system, a conviction still appears on background checks and can carry lasting consequences, particularly for employment or professional licensing. The defense may pursue dismissals, conditional outcomes, or plea reductions depending on the facts, your background, and available programs. Municipal court matters move quickly, so early planning helps protect options and guide negotiations in a productive direction.
PTI is a diversionary program in New Jersey’s Superior Court for eligible defendants, often first-time participants. Acceptance can lead to supervision and conditions such as counseling, community service, or restitution. Successful completion typically results in a dismissal of the charges, helping to reduce long-term impact. Not every case or individual qualifies, and prosecutors consider factors like offense circumstances and background. In theft matters, PTI may be a strong option where the evidence is disputed but risk remains, or where rehabilitation and accountability align with the State’s goals. Applying early and submitting supportive materials can improve the likelihood of acceptance.
New Jersey’s equivalent of a felony, heard in Superior Court. Theft becomes indictable when the value or circumstances meet statutory thresholds, or when the conduct involves more serious allegations such as organized activity. Indictable cases carry higher potential penalties and more complex procedures, including grand jury review and formal discovery. Defense strategy may involve motions challenging the sufficiency of evidence, negotiations for amended charges, or applications for diversion where available. In Mercer County Superior Court, timelines and requirements are stricter, making preparation and documentation vital. Understanding grading and exposure helps set realistic goals and select the best path toward resolution.
Restitution is court-ordered payment intended to compensate an alleged victim for financial loss tied to the offense. In theft cases, it can play a significant role during negotiations, especially where a store or individual submits documentation of value. Paying or arranging restitution does not automatically resolve a case, but it may support requests for reduced penalties, amendments, or diversion when appropriate. Any agreement should be carefully documented and aligned with the overall defense strategy. Accurate valuations, receipts, and clear terms help prevent misunderstandings. Your attorney can coordinate communications to ensure restitution supports your goals without creating unintended admissions.
Not every theft case requires the same intensity of defense. Some matters are suited to targeted negotiations that address a specific issue, like a receipt discrepancy or mistaken identity. Others require a broader approach with investigation, motions, and preparation for trial. In Princeton, municipal court cases can sometimes be resolved efficiently when the facts are narrow and the parties agree on next steps. Superior Court matters often call for deeper analysis and documentation. The right path depends on your goals, the evidence, prior history, and diversion eligibility. A thoughtful evaluation helps match the level of effort to the realities of your case.
In some shoplifting cases, the facts point to a genuine misunderstanding: an item placed in a personal bag while juggling a phone, a self-checkout error, or confusion over a return. When value is low and your background is otherwise clean, a focused approach may be appropriate. This can include presenting documentation, clarifying the timeline, and exploring options such as conditional dismissals where available. The goal is to correct the record and address store concerns without escalating the matter. By limiting the scope to the core issue, you may resolve things efficiently while protecting your record and minimizing stress and expense.
Sometimes a property disagreement becomes a theft complaint before the facts are fully understood. When messages, receipts, or ownership records show a likely resolution, a tailored strategy can help move the case toward dismissal without extensive litigation. This might involve clarifying misunderstandings, addressing restitution if appropriate, and providing context that reassures the State and any involved party. In Princeton Municipal Court, practical agreements often carry weight when the evidence aligns with a non-theft explanation. By focusing on documentation, timelines, and clear communication, you keep the process measured, reduce risks, and avoid unnecessary steps that could prolong the case.
When the State alleges higher values or references prior incidents, a broader defense is often warranted. Indictable theft charges in Mercer County Superior Court can involve more aggressive prosecution, stricter procedures, and a wider range of consequences. A full-scope strategy allows for comprehensive discovery review, motion practice, mitigation development, and diversion applications where fitting. It also provides room to dispute valuations, challenge identification, and prepare for trial if negotiation stalls. The aim is to protect your options at every turn, address both legal and personal concerns, and create momentum for a favorable outcome while reducing exposure and uncertainty.
Cases involving multiple witnesses, lengthy surveillance, or conflicting accounts benefit from a structured, comprehensive approach. Your defense may need to map timelines, test credibility, and examine how evidence was collected and preserved. With layered facts, it’s important to identify themes early and pursue targeted motions, such as suppressing statements or excluding unreliable identifications. In theft matters tied to online sales or returns, metadata and transaction histories can also be key. A full-scope plan keeps investigation, negotiation, and trial preparation moving together, so you’re ready for whichever path offers the best chance at a result that protects your record and future plans.
A thorough approach gives your defense the flexibility to pivot as new information emerges. Early investigation can uncover helpful witnesses or surveillance angles that were overlooked. Comprehensive preparation also strengthens your leverage in negotiations, demonstrating that you’re ready to challenge weak points and proceed if necessary. This can open the door to reductions, amendments, or diversion opportunities when appropriate. The process itself becomes less overwhelming because you have a roadmap of tasks, deadlines, and strategy milestones. Even if the case resolves short of trial, doing the groundwork ensures that you made informed choices and protected your interests at every stage.
Comprehensive defense does more than react to allegations—it builds a clear narrative supported by facts, context, and mitigation. When restitution is in play, it aligns payments with your strategy and documents everything carefully. When policy or procedure is at issue, it highlights inconsistencies or gaps. This kind of preparation can also reduce collateral consequences, such as employment concerns or educational impacts, by pursuing outcomes that minimize records wherever possible. For Princeton cases, it helps you navigate municipal or Superior Court procedures with confidence and purpose. The result is a steadier, more organized path toward the resolution that best fits your life.
When your defense is thoroughly prepared, it signals to the State that you are ready to challenge weak evidence and proceed when required. That preparedness often translates into productive discussions about reductions, amendments, or diversion. Detailed timelines, receipts, and witness summaries can clarify the record and narrow disputes. In theft cases, where valuations and intent frequently drive outcomes, that added clarity can shift the conversation. By pairing investigation with legal analysis, you create positive pressure for a balanced resolution. Even if trial becomes necessary, the groundwork laid during negotiations improves your ability to present a compelling, fact-driven defense.
Comprehensive planning reduces surprises. You’ll understand likely outcomes, the impact of priors if any, and how restitution or diversion could support your goals. This transparency helps you make decisions with confidence, rather than reacting to the latest development. In Princeton, where cases may move quickly in municipal court, a clear roadmap keeps you on schedule and ensures deadlines are met. If the matter is transferred to Superior Court, your preparation scales with the higher stakes. The end result is a more predictable process and a stronger chance of reaching an outcome that safeguards your record, work, and plans for the future.
Moving fast after a theft charge can preserve options that might fade with time. Ask a lawyer about steps to secure surveillance footage and identify key witnesses before memories fade. Avoid guessing about court dates or requirements—verify everything so you don’t miss critical appearances or deadlines. If restitution could support negotiation, gather receipts and documentation early to maintain momentum. In Princeton and Mercer County, proactive communication with the court and prosecutor can keep your matter on track and build credibility. Quick, measured action is often the difference between a limited issue and a problem that grows more complicated.
Well-intended conversations can be misinterpreted and used against you. Decline interviews or written statements until you have advice tailored to your situation. If a store, insurer, or third party contacts you, politely request that communications go through your attorney. Social media posts can also be taken out of context, so consider pausing public commentary until your case is resolved. This isn’t about hiding—it’s about protecting your rights and keeping facts accurate. With a calm approach and careful guidance, you reduce the risk of unnecessary complications and keep the focus on resolving your Princeton theft matter the right way.
Theft allegations can affect employment, education, immigration, and professional licensing. An attorney helps you understand these downstream effects while guiding the legal process in Princeton Municipal Court or Mercer County Superior Court. You gain a single point of contact for questions, filings, and negotiations, and an advocate who can identify opportunities for dismissal, reduction, or diversion when appropriate. Your lawyer can also coordinate restitution in a way that supports your defense. The aim is not only to manage the case today, but also to limit fallout tomorrow by securing an outcome that aligns with your goals and responsibilities.
Working with counsel helps you avoid missteps that close doors. A quick call can prevent avoidable statements, missed deadlines, or incomplete paperwork that undermines negotiations. You also gain insight into how prosecutors review value, priors, and loss-prevention procedures, and how those details influence charging decisions. In a busy court system, well-prepared cases tend to move more efficiently. With the Law Office of Edward Appel, you receive straightforward advice, practical options, and timely communication so you can make confident decisions. When your name and future are at stake, getting the right guidance early is a smart investment.
We regularly see Princeton cases arising from retail stops, receipt disputes, inventory errors, and misunderstandings at self-checkout. Other matters involve property borrowed and not returned on schedule, online marketplace confusion, or receiving items later claimed to be stolen. Employee theft accusations may surface during internal audits or after tense workplace transitions. Each situation turns on the evidence available, from store video and POS records to text threads and transaction histories. Our approach is to map the timeline, preserve supportive materials, and work toward a resolution that safeguards your record while addressing concerns of the court and any involved party.
Shoplifting cases often start with a loss-prevention stop and a report to police. The evidence may include surveillance clips, itemized lists, and statements. Defenses can focus on intent, value, or how events unfolded, including self-checkout confusion or incomplete returns. In Princeton Municipal Court, lower-value matters can sometimes be steered toward conditional outcomes depending on eligibility and facts. We help gather receipts, witness accounts, and context that clarify the incident. If restitution is discussed, we align it with a broader strategy. Throughout, the priority is protecting your record, avoiding unnecessary penalties, and steering the case toward a measured, fair outcome.
Workplace allegations may involve access to inventory, cash handling, or digital records. These cases can be sensitive, with overlapping employment issues and strong emotions. Evidence may include audit results, camera footage, and logs that require careful review. Sometimes the dispute is more about policy than intentional wrongdoing. We approach these matters with discretion, examining whether the proof actually supports the charge and whether a negotiated resolution or diversion is possible. If the State proceeds, we ensure discovery is complete, challenge weak points, and present mitigation. The goal is to resolve the matter without lasting harm to your record or career path.
Allegations tied to online sales or second-hand purchases frequently hinge on what you knew and when you knew it. Listings, messages, and payment records are central to the defense. We examine the source of the items, the reasonableness of the price, and whether any red flags were apparent at the time. Many cases involve misunderstandings that can be explained with documentation and a clear timeline. When handled early, some matters can be resolved through negotiation, restitution, or diversion when available. Our role is to present your account credibly, dispute unwarranted inferences, and work toward an outcome that protects your future.
Our firm focuses on clear guidance and dependable advocacy for people facing theft allegations in Princeton. We take time to understand your goals, explain the process, and build a plan that fits your life. You’ll know what to expect at each hearing and how decisions today may affect opportunities tomorrow. We coordinate with the court, request discovery promptly, and keep you informed so there are no surprises. From addressing restitution to evaluating diversion, we develop a strategy that aligns with your priorities while protecting your rights and record.
Every case deserves attention to detail. We examine how the State values property, whether identifications are reliable, and whether store policies or procedures may have contributed to the incident. If negotiation is the best route, we advocate for balanced outcomes. If motions or trial preparation are appropriate, we pursue them with care and purpose. Throughout, communication is central—questions get answered, timelines are clear, and documents are organized. This structure helps reduce stress and ensures decision-making is informed at every step of your Princeton theft matter.
We understand that a theft charge affects more than a court calendar. Employment, education, travel, and family obligations all matter. Our role is to pursue outcomes that minimize long-term impact, whether that’s dismissal, an amendment, or a path that avoids a lasting mark when possible. We discuss collateral issues openly and craft mitigation that reflects your responsibilities and accomplishments. If you’re unsure where to begin, calling early can make a meaningful difference. Reach the Law Office of Edward Appel at 856-856-2373 to discuss your situation and a plan built around your goals.
We structure theft cases in clear phases so you always know what’s next. First, we listen and collect the essentials—summons, police reports, and your timeline. Next, we pursue discovery, evaluate the evidence, and identify leverage points. We then decide whether to negotiate, file motions, or prepare for trial, depending on your goals and risk tolerance. Along the way, we handle court communications, track deadlines, and keep you updated. In Princeton and Mercer County, this steady approach helps reduce stress, avoid missed opportunities, and build momentum toward a resolution that protects your record and long-term plans.
We begin with a detailed intake to understand what happened and what outcome you’re seeking. You’ll share documents, explain the timeline, and identify any witnesses or records that may help. We review the complaint, police narrative, and available reports, then outline potential paths: negotiation, diversion, motions, or trial preparation. You’ll get candid feedback about strengths, risks, and next steps. This stage is where we set priorities, like preserving video or coordinating restitution. By the end of Step 1, you’ll have a clear strategy tailored to Princeton Municipal Court or Mercer County Superior Court procedures.
Your perspective matters. We start by listening, asking questions, and mapping your timeline with as much detail as possible. We want to understand what led to the allegation, what happened during the incident, and what is most important to you—protecting a job, school plans, or immigration status. We also identify quick wins, like gathering receipts or contacting potential witnesses. With this foundation, we can tailor requests to the prosecutor, prepare for early discussions, and position the case for the best available outcome. Clarity at the beginning makes every later step more effective.
Early investigation can preserve evidence that might otherwise be lost. We seek surveillance, POS records, and relevant communications while memories are fresh. We review reports for gaps, inconsistencies, or valuation issues that can become negotiation leverage or the basis for motions. If restitution could support your goals, we discuss documentation and timing. We also consider whether diversion may be in play and what materials would strengthen an application. This focused review sets the stage for Step 2 by sharpening the narrative and identifying exactly where the State’s case is strongest and where it may be challenged.
With the facts organized, we begin targeted negotiations. We present evidence that clarifies misunderstandings, address valuation questions, and explore outcomes that align with your goals, including dismissals, amendments, or diversion when appropriate. If the State’s theory relies on questionable evidence, we file motions to exclude or limit it. This balanced approach shows readiness to proceed if needed and encourages measured resolutions. Throughout Step 2, we provide regular updates so you can help guide decisions. In Princeton and Mercer County, diligent preparation often creates room for outcomes that minimize long-term impact and keep your plans on track.
Effective negotiation starts with credibility. We present an orderly package—timeline, documents, and mitigation—so the prosecutor can evaluate the case efficiently. We highlight reasonable doubts, propose fair resolutions, and remain open to practical solutions like restitution that support your defense. When you are eligible for diversion, we make that case clearly and respectfully. If a plea is considered, we explain consequences, including immigration, licensing, or employment concerns. The aim is a balanced, durable outcome that avoids surprises and aligns with your priorities, whether the matter is in Princeton Municipal Court or Mercer County Superior Court.
When evidence is weak or obtained improperly, we challenge it through motions and, if necessary, hearings. This can include questioning identifications, disputing valuations, or contesting statements. We scrutinize how surveillance was handled and whether reports accurately reflect events. By narrowing what the State can rely on, we strengthen your negotiating position and prepare for trial if the case proceeds. Clear, focused challenges keep the court’s attention on the legal standards that matter. Even when motions do not resolve everything, they often refine the issues, making later decisions more informed and productive for your defense.
The final phase is about choosing the best path and executing it well. If dismissal is achievable, we document it thoroughly. If diversion fits, we prepare a strong application and guide you through requirements. If trial is the right route, we finalize witnesses, exhibits, and themes that support your defense. We also address collateral issues such as employment or education, coordinating letters and documentation where helpful. By moving deliberately and communicating openly, we work toward a resolution that protects your record and supports your future, whether your case is in Princeton or elsewhere in Mercer County.
Once a direction is set, we build the plan to match it. For negotiated outcomes, that could mean finalizing restitution terms, securing necessary documentation, or preparing a presentation that supports the agreement. For diversion, we assemble references, counseling records if relevant, and a roadmap for compliance. For trial, we refine witness outlines, exhibits, and legal arguments. This preparation keeps the process predictable and reduces last-minute pressure. Throughout, we explain timelines, likely court appearances, and what your active role will be so you feel ready and informed at every step.
Your life continues after the case, so we discuss how to limit long-term impact wherever possible. We explain record-related options that may be available in the future under New Jersey law, and we suggest practical steps to avoid collateral issues with school, work, or licensing. If you completed diversion or a conditional dismissal, we help you track next steps and paperwork. Our goal is to leave you with a clear plan and peace of mind. By approaching your Princeton theft case with both today and tomorrow in mind, we help you move forward with confidence.
Stay calm and avoid making statements until you’ve spoken with an attorney. Gather documents like receipts, texts, and any correspondence that supports your account. Write down a timeline while details are fresh and identify possible witnesses. If there is surveillance footage, your attorney can move quickly to help preserve it. Contact a defense lawyer who handles Princeton and Mercer County matters. You’ll get guidance on court dates, what to expect at your first appearance, and whether early steps—like addressing restitution—could help your position. Early planning protects your rights and keeps important options on the table.
A theft conviction can appear on background checks and may affect employment, licensing, or housing. Even lower-level municipal matters create records that can be discovered by many screening services. The consequences depend on the outcome and how the case is recorded. In some circumstances, diversion or conditional outcomes can reduce long-term impact. Future relief options may also exist under New Jersey law, depending on the disposition. Your attorney can explain how different resolutions may appear on background checks and help you pursue a path that protects your record where possible.
Yes, depending on the facts, evidence, and your background, shoplifting charges can sometimes be dismissed or reduced. Outcomes vary and may involve negotiations addressing value, identification, or misunderstandings related to store policies or self-checkout. When appropriate, conditional dismissals or other programs may be considered. Each case is unique, and eligibility depends on several factors. A defense attorney can evaluate the evidence, preserve helpful records, and present a clear narrative to support a result that aligns with your goals and the court’s requirements.
Disorderly persons theft matters are handled in municipal court and are similar to misdemeanors in other states. Penalties may include fines, probation, community service, and potential jail time, but exposure is generally lower than indictable charges. Indictable theft offenses are heard in Superior Court and carry higher potential penalties with more formal procedures. The dividing line often involves the value alleged and other circumstances. Knowing which court has your case helps set expectations for timelines, discovery, and potential strategies like diversion or motion practice.
PTI is available in Superior Court for eligible individuals, often first-time participants. Acceptance depends on case facts, your background, and the prosecutor’s position. If granted and completed, charges are usually dismissed upon successful compliance. Municipal court has its own conditional programs that may provide alternatives for certain cases. Your attorney can assess eligibility, help assemble supporting materials, and submit applications early. Diversion is not guaranteed, but careful preparation can improve your chances when the facts and your history support it.
Do not pay or promise restitution without legal advice. Uncoordinated payments can be misunderstood or used in ways that don’t help your defense. Timing and documentation matter, and admissions should be avoided. If restitution is appropriate, your attorney can coordinate terms, ensure accurate valuations, and align payments with your overall strategy. In many cases, structured restitution can support negotiations, but it should be part of a plan designed to protect your rights and improve the path to resolution.
Attendance rules vary by court and case status. For many municipal matters, your presence is required unless your attorney advises otherwise and the court permits. Missing a required appearance can lead to warrants and additional problems. Your lawyer will explain which hearings require you to appear and whether any can be waived. Clear communication with the court prevents misunderstandings and keeps your matter on track. Always confirm plans well in advance of your court date.
If a witness or complainant fails to appear, the court may reschedule, dismiss, or proceed based on available evidence, depending on the circumstances. A single nonappearance does not guarantee dismissal. Your attorney can argue for an appropriate result considering the State’s readiness, discovery status, and the importance of the missing testimony. The outcome often turns on whether the prosecution can proceed without the witness and the overall interests of justice.
Many Princeton municipal theft cases resolve within a few months, while more complex matters or Superior Court indictable charges can take longer. Discovery, motion practice, and negotiations influence timing. Your case’s pace depends on evidence complexity, scheduling, and whether a diversion application is pursued. A clear strategy and timely responses help keep things moving. Your attorney should provide regular updates so you always know what to expect next.
It’s generally best to have your attorney handle communications with the prosecutor. Direct contact can lead to misunderstandings or statements that complicate your case. Your lawyer knows what information helps and how to present it. With counsel involved, negotiations stay focused and organized. This approach protects your rights, aligns requests with your goals, and avoids unnecessary risks. If you’re unsure how to proceed, consult your attorney before any conversation with the State.