A sex crime allegation in Mount Arlington can change everything in an instant. Police interviews, protective orders, and the possibility of Megan’s Law registration create immediate pressure and uncertainty. The Law Office of Edward Appel helps residents of Morris County understand what comes next, protect their rights, and make informed choices under New Jersey law. Early guidance can affect release conditions, evidence preservation, and charging decisions. If you have been contacted by law enforcement or believe you are under investigation, do not go it alone. A brief call can help you avoid missteps while we assess the facts, the charging statute, and the best path forward for your situation.
Our firm focuses on clear communication, careful case-building, and practical strategies designed for local courts. From sexual assault and criminal sexual contact to internet-related offenses, we evaluate the elements the State must prove and the defenses available under Title 2C. Every case turns on its facts, including consent, age, digital records, and witness credibility. We coordinate discreetly, consult when needed with qualified professionals, and negotiate from a position informed by preparation. If you or a loved one in Mount Arlington faces an accusation, call 856-856-2373 for a confidential consultation with the Law Office of Edward Appel. The earlier we begin, the more options we can explore to protect your future.
Sex crime charges bring unique risks in New Jersey, including potential incarceration, long-term supervision, and registration obligations under Megan’s Law. A thoughtful defense helps safeguard your rights at every stage, from the first interview through charging decisions, negotiation, motion practice, and trial. It also helps manage collateral issues like employment, schooling, and family matters that often arise during a case. By promptly gathering records, preserving digital evidence, and identifying weaknesses in the State’s proof, your legal team can position you for better outcomes. In Mount Arlington and throughout Morris County, tailored guidance ensures you understand the process, what the State must prove, and the practical steps that support your defense and life outside the courtroom.
The Law Office of Edward Appel represents individuals across New Jersey in criminal defense matters, including sex crime allegations, with an emphasis on preparation, discretion, and accessible counsel. We serve Mount Arlington and Morris County with a client-centered approach that prioritizes communication and strategy. From the initial consult, we work to understand your goals, identify legal issues, and map a plan that addresses both the courtroom and the day-to-day impact of charges. We coordinate investigations, consult with appropriate professionals when necessary, and pursue negotiations or motion practice that align with your defense. You will receive honest feedback, timely updates, and advocacy tailored to local procedures and expectations.
Sex crimes in New Jersey cover a wide range of allegations, including sexual assault, criminal sexual contact, endangering the welfare of a child, lewdness, and certain internet offenses. Cases often turn on nuanced issues like consent, age differences, prior communications, and the context of digital interactions. Even early statements or texts can influence outcomes, so taking care before speaking to police can be pivotal. In Mount Arlington, charges are typically handled through the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, and the process can include pretrial detention hearings, grand jury review, discovery exchanges, and potential plea discussions. Understanding these steps helps you anticipate timelines, decisions, and opportunities to strengthen your defense.
The State must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt, including identity, intent, and, where applicable, the absence of consent or an age-based prohibition. Defense strategies may focus on credibility, misidentification, digital forensics, forensic interviews, or constitutional challenges to searches and seizures. Some cases involve potential diversion for non-violent offenses; others demand extensive litigation. Managing collateral impacts, such as no-contact orders, employment concerns, and social media, is also essential. A thoughtful plan coordinates evidence preservation, witness interviews, and targeted motions while staying alert to negotiation windows. With early guidance, many missteps can be avoided and opportunities created to address both immediate needs and long-term consequences.
New Jersey’s Title 2C defines a spectrum of sex offenses, from aggravated sexual assault and sexual assault to criminal sexual contact, endangering the welfare of a child, and lewdness. Internet-based allegations can involve distribution or possession of unlawful images, online luring, or attempted offenses. Some charges carry registration obligations under Megan’s Law and potential parole supervision for life. Others may be disorderly persons offenses with lower exposure but lasting consequences. The exact statute cited determines required elements, potential penalties, and available defenses. Understanding the definition, including age thresholds, consent standards, force or coercion, and the role of digital evidence, is essential to planning a defense tailored to the facts and risks of your case.
In most sex crime cases, prosecutors must prove identity, a prohibited act, the required mental state, and additional elements such as lack of consent, force, coercion, or an age-based bar. The process typically moves from investigation and arrest through a complaint-warrant, a detention decision, indictment by grand jury, discovery, motion practice, and pretrial conferences. Many cases turn on digital communications, forensic exams, or witness statements. Defense work may include suppression motions, challenges to forensic methods, and credibility analysis. Throughout, you have the presumption of innocence and the State’s burden remains beyond a reasonable doubt. Mapping these elements early guides focused evidence requests and strategic decisions about negotiation or trial.
Sex crime cases often involve technical language and procedures that can feel overwhelming. Understanding common terms helps you follow the process and make informed decisions. You may hear references to Megan’s Law registration, detention hearings, discovery, and motions that challenge the admissibility of evidence. Other terms relate to sentencing frameworks, supervision conditions, or diversion opportunities. As your case moves through Morris County courts, our role includes translating these concepts into plain language, explaining what they mean for your situation, and helping you weigh options. The goal is to ensure you are informed, prepared, and able to participate fully in your defense.
Megan’s Law is New Jersey’s registration and community notification framework for certain sex offenses. Depending on the charge and outcome, individuals may be required to register, undergo risk assessment, and comply with ongoing reporting obligations. Some matters involve tiering and notification issues. There are legal avenues to challenge classifications or seek relief in limited circumstances after meeting statutory requirements. Understanding whether your charge triggers registration, and how to respond to proposed tiering, is essential to planning your defense and long-term strategy. Early guidance can help address risks, documentation, and steps that position you for more favorable outcomes under the statute.
The No Early Release Act requires service of a substantial portion of certain sentences before parole eligibility. Some New Jersey offenses, including particular violent or aggravated conduct, may fall within NERA. When applicable, it significantly affects exposure and negotiation strategy. Understanding whether NERA is implicated helps guide decisions on plea offers, trial posture, and mitigation efforts. If NERA is not triggered, other sentencing frameworks may apply. Evaluating the statute cited, the alleged facts, and prior history allows your defense to accurately assess risk and pursue outcomes that reflect the actual conduct, available defenses, and the equities of your case.
Consent in New Jersey requires a voluntary, affirmative agreement, and can be limited by age, incapacity, or circumstances involving force or coercion. Texts, social media, and prior interactions are often part of the analysis but must be considered carefully and within context. In some cases, the law presumes the absence of consent due to age or incapacity, even if a person appeared willing. Many defenses hinge on what the State can prove about communication, conduct, timing, and credibility. Clarifying how consent is defined under the charged statute is essential to evaluating the State’s case and developing a strategy that addresses both legal elements and factual disputes.
Pretrial Intervention is a diversion program for certain defendants that, when approved and successfully completed, may result in dismissal of charges. PTI is discretionary and limited, and some sex offenses are ineligible by statute or policy. When an offense could qualify, strong mitigation, acceptance of responsibility, or treatment commitments may be evaluated. Even if PTI is not available, other resolutions may reduce exposure. Our role is to assess eligibility, gather supporting materials, and coordinate submissions that present your background, achievements, and rehabilitation efforts. Understanding diversion criteria early can shape decisions about treatment, employment records, and community involvement that support a favorable review.
Every case requires an approach that matches its facts, risks, and goals. Some matters benefit from a targeted plan focused on challenging a single issue, such as identification or a search. Others call for full-scale investigation, motion practice, and expert consultation. Options can include seeking dismissal, suppression of evidence, negotiated outcomes that reduce exposure, or pursuing trial. In limited circumstances, diversion may be considered. The right path depends on statutory elements, available defenses, the strength of the State’s proof, and collateral consequences such as licensing or immigration. We help clients in Mount Arlington weigh these choices and move forward with clarity and confidence.
A streamlined defense may be appropriate when the State’s case rests on unreliable identification, inconsistent statements, or lawfully challengeable searches. In these situations, careful use of targeted motions, a focused investigation, and measured negotiation can be more effective than sprawling litigation. Limiting the footprint of filings and appearances may reduce unnecessary attention while still applying pressure at the right legal points. We aim to highlight provable weaknesses, seek dismissals or reductions where appropriate, and protect your privacy. In Mount Arlington, a narrow approach is often best when the facts and law provide a clear path to undermining the State’s core theory.
Some allegations, such as disorderly persons lewdness or conduct without aggravating factors, may respond well to a discrete strategy centered on mitigation. Character letters, counseling steps, and documented community ties can support negotiations that protect your record and reduce penalties. In these cases, keeping the process focused and respectful often produces the best results. We work to present a balanced picture of the incident, highlight corrective steps, and address any concerns from the State or complaining witness. When the law and facts allow, a concise, mitigation-driven plan can help secure proportional outcomes while minimizing disruption to your life in Mount Arlington.
Charges that carry potential registration, parole supervision, or lengthy incarceration call for broad, coordinated defense efforts. These matters often require extensive investigation, detailed discovery review, and layered motion practice. We may consult with forensic, medical, or digital professionals when appropriate and prepare for contested hearings that shape outcomes. Comprehensive preparation supports both negotiation and trial readiness, ensuring no issue goes unexamined. In Mount Arlington, building a complete record of the facts, your background, and the legal challenges available can materially affect sentencing exposure and long-term obligations. This approach helps protect your future, your family, and your ability to rebuild after the case concludes.
Cases involving device forensics, medical exams, or multiple witnesses demand a thorough plan. Digital timelines, data integrity, and chain-of-custody issues can make or break the State’s case. Coordinating subpoenas, expert input, and targeted interviews helps clarify what actually happened and which evidence is reliable. Multi-witness accounts often contain inconsistencies that require careful analysis and, when appropriate, impeachment. We also address protective orders, communications boundaries, and reputational concerns. A full-scale defense ensures that all moving pieces—technical, medical, and testimonial—are evaluated and challenged appropriately. This depth of preparation positions you for informed decisions on negotiation or trial in Morris County courts.
A comprehensive defense plan creates leverage. It uncovers favorable facts early, frames negotiations, and builds a record that supports suppression, dismissal, or alternative outcomes. By aligning strategy with your goals, we can focus resources where they matter most, whether that is challenging identification, contesting digital evidence, or presenting mitigation. Thorough preparation also reduces surprises, clarifies timelines, and improves your ability to make informed choices. In Mount Arlington, understanding local practices and preferences helps us schedule hearings, meet filing deadlines, and communicate effectively with the court and the State. The result is a clear path forward grounded in facts and law.
Another benefit is peace of mind. Knowing that evidence is preserved, witnesses are contacted, and motions are timely filed helps you focus on work, family, and health while the case moves forward. A diligent approach can also highlight opportunities—such as treatment programs or community service—that meaningfully influence outcomes. We explain each step, from detention decisions to potential plea terms, so you know what to expect and when. This structure reduces stress, supports better decisions, and often produces more favorable results. In serious cases, comprehensive preparation is the foundation for either informed negotiation or a confident trial posture in Morris County.
Important evidence can disappear quickly, especially texts, social media posts, and third-party video. Early action secures these materials, documents timelines, and preserves favorable context. We gather medical records when appropriate, request relevant digital data, and identify witnesses who can clarify events. Prompt investigation often reveals inconsistencies that shape our motion practice and negotiation strategy. It can also prevent misunderstandings that grow over time. In Mount Arlington, coordinating with local agencies and businesses to obtain footage or records requires diligence and follow-through. This early groundwork strengthens your position across the board and keeps the defense focused on verifiable facts.
Negotiation is most effective when backed by preparation. By identifying legal weaknesses, mitigation themes, and evidentiary issues, we negotiate from strength rather than hope. If resolution is appropriate, we work to secure terms that reflect the facts, your history, and your long-term needs. If trial is the better path, pretrial motions frame the issues, narrow the State’s proof, and protect your rights. Either way, a comprehensive file persuades. In Mount Arlington’s courts, credibility, organization, and timely filings matter. Our approach ensures your story is presented clearly and that the record supports the outcome we are seeking on your behalf.
Even informal conversations can be treated as evidence. If police or investigators contact you about an allegation, politely decline to answer questions until you have legal guidance. Do not attempt to explain, apologize, or clear up misunderstandings on your own. Well-meaning statements can be misquoted, taken out of context, or misinterpreted against you. Ask for a lawyer, provide basic identification only, and end the interview. Then, contact the Law Office of Edward Appel at 856-856-2373. We can coordinate any communications, help prevent avoidable mistakes, and ensure your rights are protected during every step of the Mount Arlington process.
Avoid posting about the case or contacting anyone involved through social media or messaging apps. Adjust privacy settings, but do not delete content. If the court imposes no-contact orders or release conditions, follow them precisely. Keep records of counseling, work, and community activities that show stability and responsibility. If electronics are seized, do not attempt to access accounts from other devices. Let your lawyer know about any potential violations immediately, so we can address issues proactively. Careful compliance and thoughtful online habits protect your credibility, reduce risks, and support better outcomes in Morris County courts.
Early guidance often shapes the course of a case. From setting the tone with investigators to preserving evidence and addressing release conditions, prompt legal help creates options. If you have received a call from law enforcement, a summons, or a notice of investigation, the steps you take in the first few days can make a meaningful difference. We help you avoid common mistakes, document favorable information, and prepare for key hearings. A call to the Law Office of Edward Appel ensures you have a plan tailored to your goals and the realities of Mount Arlington and Morris County courts.
Beyond the courtroom, sex crime allegations affect families, employment, and community standing. A steady, informed approach reduces stress, clarifies decisions, and prepares you for what lies ahead. We explain the process in plain language and map out next steps so you are never guessing about timelines or priorities. Whether your case calls for discreet negotiation or comprehensive litigation, getting started now positions you to protect your future. Contact 856-856-2373 for a confidential consultation. We will listen, evaluate the law and facts, and help you move forward with purpose and confidence in Mount Arlington.
Cases often begin with a police request for a statement, a knock at the door, or a notice about seized electronics. Allegations can arise from campus incidents, online chats, neighbor disputes, or misunderstandings after social events. Sometimes cooperation with investigators seems helpful, but unscripted conversations can be risky. Other times, a summons arrives unexpectedly, or a protective order is issued. In Mount Arlington, small-town dynamics and digital footprints move quickly, so early advice matters. Whatever the situation, speaking with counsel before engaging with law enforcement helps you avoid missteps, protect your rights, and plan a strategy matched to your facts.
Officers may invite you to talk informally to “clear up” an allegation. These conversations are rarely casual. Anything you say can be used in court, and misunderstandings can occur even when you intend to be helpful. If you are approached, be respectful, provide basic identification, and ask to speak with a lawyer before answering questions. We can evaluate whether a statement is advisable, arrange communications, or decline an interview. Protecting your rights at this early stage can influence charging decisions and preserve defenses. A short call can prevent long-term problems in Mount Arlington and throughout Morris County.
If you receive a summons or complaint, do not ignore it. Deadlines, court dates, and conditions may attach immediately. We will review the statute, the allegations, and the documents for errors or opportunities. Our next steps may include requesting discovery, evaluating detention risks, and preparing for initial appearances. We will also help you understand no-contact orders and compliance requirements. Early organization shows the court that you take the process seriously and supports better outcomes. In Mount Arlington, timely response and careful planning often translate into more favorable scheduling, constructive negotiation, and a stronger overall defense posture.
When law enforcement executes a search or seizes devices, do not interfere or attempt to access accounts from other devices. Request a copy of the warrant and contact us immediately. We will examine the warrant’s scope, timing, and supporting affidavit to determine whether a challenge may be appropriate. We will also discuss preservation steps and how to address personal or work disruptions caused by the seizure. In many cases, chain-of-custody issues or overbroad searches create motion opportunities. Acting quickly helps protect your rights, your privacy, and your ability to function while the case proceeds in Morris County.
We believe better outcomes are built on preparation, communication, and respect for clients. From day one, we listen carefully, explain your options, and outline a plan tailored to your situation. You will understand the elements the State must prove, the potential penalties, and the opportunities for negotiation or litigation. We coordinate discreetly, protect your privacy, and respond promptly to your questions. Our goal is to reduce uncertainty while positioning your case for the best possible result in Mount Arlington and Morris County.
Local knowledge matters. We understand the timelines, filing practices, and expectations that influence cases in this part of New Jersey. That insight helps us structure negotiations, prepare effective motions, and present mitigation in a way that resonates. We put in the work to obtain and analyze discovery, consult with appropriate professionals when helpful, and challenge unreliable evidence. Throughout, we provide honest feedback and practical guidance so you can make informed decisions. You will not be left guessing about next steps or strategy.
Your life is more than a case number. We help address the real-world impacts of allegations, including employment, schooling, and family concerns. We can coordinate counseling or evaluations when beneficial, gather character support, and document positive steps that influence outcomes. Our approach balances defense advocacy with long-term planning, including post-charge relief where available. If you are facing a sex crime allegation in Mount Arlington, we are ready to help you move forward with a clear plan and steady advocacy from start to finish.
Our process is designed to reduce uncertainty and create momentum. We begin with a confidential consult to understand your goals, then gather documents and map deadlines. Early steps may include contacting the State, preserving evidence, and preparing for detention or preliminary hearings. We outline likely scenarios, identify key decision points, and explain how discovery, motions, and negotiation fit together. Throughout your case, you receive clear updates and practical guidance. Whether the path leads to dismissal, reduction, plea, or trial, our structure keeps the defense moving and ensures you are informed and prepared at every stage.
In the first phase, we gather facts, review allegations, and secure critical evidence. We assess potential exposure, discuss release conditions, and advise on communication boundaries. If necessary, we coordinate with investigators, employers, or schools to manage immediate concerns. We also plan for early hearings and outline likely discovery. This stage focuses on preserving leverage, preventing missteps, and positioning the case for favorable decisions down the line. By the end of Step One, you will understand timelines, priorities, and the actions we will take in Mount Arlington to protect your rights and your future.
We start with a detailed, confidential discussion to capture the full picture. You will share communications, potential witnesses, and areas of concern. We identify near-term deadlines, potential hearings, and any compliance requirements such as no-contact orders. We also discuss work, school, and family logistics that may be affected by the case. The goal is to develop a clear timeline and a checklist of immediate tasks. This foundation reduces uncertainty, aligns expectations, and ensures we take smart early steps that support your defense in Mount Arlington and throughout Morris County.
Next, we send targeted preservation letters and discovery requests, prioritize digital content, and evaluate whether early motions may be appropriate. We look closely at search and seizure issues, identification procedures, and statements that may be challenged. If there are opportunities to limit or exclude evidence, we act quickly. We also begin gathering mitigation materials that may influence release conditions or negotiations. This early legal work shapes the record, frames discussions with the State, and prepares the ground for either resolution or a contested path in Mount Arlington’s courts.
As discovery develops, we refine the defense theory and engage with prosecutors. We highlight weaknesses in the State’s proof, present mitigation, and explore options for dismissal, reduction, or alternative outcomes. When helpful, we coordinate input from appropriate professionals. At the same time, we prepare for litigation so that negotiations reflect a realistic trial posture. You receive candid advice about risks and opportunities, along with clear explanations of any proposed terms. This balanced approach ensures that if resolution is reached, it is informed, fair, and consistent with your goals in Mount Arlington.
We systematically review reports, statements, digital data, and any forensic materials, noting inconsistencies and legal issues. We map the State’s elements against available evidence and identify where proof is thin or contested. With your input, we develop a defense theme that can carry through motions, negotiation, and, if necessary, trial. We also continue gathering favorable records, character support, and counseling documentation where appropriate. This disciplined review informs every strategic choice and keeps the case moving toward a result that reflects the law and the facts.
We attend conferences, share targeted information, and—when helpful—consult with professionals to address technical issues such as digital forensics or medical questions. We present mitigation that shows who you are beyond the file, including work history, education, family responsibilities, and steps taken since the incident. This picture supports requests for reductions or alternative resolutions. Meanwhile, we prepare litigation filings so the State understands trial is a real option. The combination of preparation and mitigation creates leverage and supports outcomes aligned with your goals in Morris County.
In the final phase, we either finalize a negotiated outcome, prepare for trial, or pursue post-charge relief where available. If resolution is chosen, we ensure terms are clear, manageable, and accurately recorded. If the case proceeds, we refine motions, prepare witnesses, and focus jury-facing themes. We also examine long-term considerations such as registration issues or expungement eligibility when applicable. Throughout, we remain accessible and responsive. Our aim is a durable result that protects your rights and helps you move forward with stability in Mount Arlington.
Before trial, the court may address motions to suppress, evidentiary disputes, or other issues that shape what the jury will hear. We prepare thoroughly, ensuring arguments are supported by facts and law. We also finalize witness preparation, exhibits, and timelines. Settlement discussions may continue as rulings come down. Our focus remains on credibility, clarity, and protecting your rights at every turn. This disciplined readiness supports either a fair resolution or a strong presentation if the matter proceeds before a jury in Morris County.
If trial is the path, we present a clear, organized defense that challenges the State’s proof and tells your story. If a plea is accepted, we ensure conditions are understood and manageable, address compliance questions, and plan for next steps. We can also advise on resources that help with life after the case, including counseling, employment, and record-related concerns where available. Our commitment continues through conclusion so that you are supported during the transition out of court and back to daily life in Mount Arlington.
It is understandable to want to explain, but unscripted statements can be risky and used against you. Even small inconsistencies may be misinterpreted. Politely decline to answer questions until you have legal guidance. Ask for a lawyer and end the interview. A brief consultation helps assess whether speaking is in your interest, and if so, under what conditions. We can coordinate communications, protect your rights, and avoid avoidable mistakes. Calling before an interview often shapes the direction of a Mount Arlington case and preserves important defenses.
At a detention hearing, the court decides whether you are released, and if so, under what conditions. The State may argue for detention based on risk factors. Your attorney presents arguments and information that support release and manageable conditions. Preparation matters. We gather documents, character support, and compliance plans to address the court’s concerns. Clear proposals and verified details can make a meaningful difference. Local experience with Morris County practices helps us frame the request in a way that aligns with court expectations.
Registration depends on the specific statute and case outcome. Not every charge triggers Megan’s Law, but some do, and consequences can be long-term. We evaluate the allegations, potential pleas, and risk assessments to understand exposure and options. If registration is at issue, we plan early for classification concerns, documentation, and steps that may help in the review process. In limited circumstances, relief may be available after meeting statutory requirements. We will explain the framework and how it applies to your Mount Arlington case.
Yes. Digital evidence must meet legal standards for collection, authenticity, and chain of custody. Timelines, metadata, and context matter. Inappropriate methods or overbroad searches can be challenged and, in some cases, lead to exclusion of evidence. We analyze how the data was obtained, stored, and presented. Where helpful, we consult with qualified professionals to evaluate devices, networks, or cloud records. Focused challenges can narrow the State’s proof and influence negotiations or trial strategy in Morris County.
False or exaggerated allegations do occur, and they require targeted investigation. We examine motives, prior communications, and inconsistencies while preserving supportive evidence. Careful, respectful work often reveals gaps that shape negotiations or trial themes. It is important not to contact the complaining witness. Let counsel handle communications. We coordinate witness interviews, document timelines, and look for objective records that clarify events. A methodical approach helps courts and juries see the full picture in Mount Arlington cases.
Yes. Early advice can protect you before charges are filed, especially if police request an interview or seize devices. We can respond to inquiries, preserve evidence, and steer you away from avoidable risks while an investigation is ongoing. Proactive steps often shape charging decisions and early conditions if a complaint issues. Reaching out promptly allows us to prepare documents, contact potential witnesses, and plan for hearings. This groundwork creates options that may not exist later in the process.
Dismissals and reductions are possible in some cases, depending on the statute, facts, and available defenses. Motion practice, credibility issues, or legal defects can change the posture. Mitigation and negotiation can also lead to improved outcomes. We assess the State’s proof against the required elements and pursue targeted strategies. Where appropriate, we present a full picture of your background and steps taken since the incident. The goal is a result that reflects the law, the facts, and your long-term needs.
Timelines vary with complexity, discovery volume, and court scheduling. Some matters resolve in a few months; others take longer, especially when forensic reviews or multiple hearings are involved. We will provide realistic expectations as the case develops. We keep the process moving with timely filings and proactive communication. Regular updates help you manage work and family commitments while we handle legal steps. Local familiarity with Morris County calendars supports efficient scheduling and planning.
Counseling can be helpful for many reasons, including stress management and personal growth. In some cases, responsible participation may support negotiation or sentencing arguments. Discuss timing and providers with your attorney before starting any program. If treatment is appropriate, we help document attendance and progress. We also ensure that participation does not conflict with legal strategies or court conditions. The goal is genuine support that aligns with your defense and life outside the courtroom.
Bring any paperwork you have, including summonses, notices, orders, and contact information for potential witnesses. Save and organize messages, emails, and photos related to the incident, but do not alter or delete anything. Prepare a timeline of events and a list of questions. We will review documents, discuss goals, and outline next steps. This information helps us provide practical guidance during your Mount Arlington consultation and start building a defense plan immediately.