If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, a DUI, or a serious injury in Haskell, the Law Office of Edward Appel is ready to help. Our firm represents clients throughout Passaic County, including matters arising from Wanaque Municipal Court and cases proceeding in the Superior Court. We handle arrests, traffic stops, indictable offenses, car accidents, slip and fall injuries, and more. From the first call, we focus on protecting your rights, preserving evidence, and setting a path toward the best available outcome. Reach us today at 856-856-2373 for a free, confidential consultation. We will listen, explain your options in plain language, and start building a strategy tailored to your situation and goals.
Early legal guidance can significantly influence both criminal and personal injury outcomes. For criminal and DUI matters, we help you navigate charges, court dates, and the choices that follow, such as diversion programs, motion practice, and trial posture. For injury claims, we secure medical records, engage with insurers, and document losses from the beginning, strengthening negotiations or litigation if needed. Our local familiarity with Haskell, Wanaque, and Passaic County procedures allows us to act quickly and effectively. Whether you face a sudden arrest or a life-changing injury, prompt action reduces risk and preserves leverage. Call 856-856-2373 to discuss your next steps and get a straightforward strategy for moving forward.
Legal problems carry serious consequences. Criminal charges may threaten your liberty, job, record, and immigration status, while a significant injury can disrupt your health, finances, and family stability. Working with a Haskell-focused firm means thoughtful guidance through local procedures, prosecutors, insurers, and courts. We help you meet deadlines, avoid missteps, and position your case for meaningful negotiations or courtroom advocacy. In criminal defense, this can mean earlier intervention, targeted motions, and strategic plea or trial decisions. In injury claims, it often means accurate damages documentation, liability analysis, and firm negotiation with carriers. With attentive representation, you gain clarity, reduce uncertainty, and place your case on a strong, deliberate track.
The Law Office of Edward Appel serves Haskell and surrounding Passaic County communities in criminal defense, DUI, and personal injury matters. Our approach is practical, detail-driven, and responsive. We prepare every case with care, from prompt evidence review to thoughtful negotiations and trial readiness when needed. Clients receive clear communication, honest expectations, and advocacy tailored to their goals. We are committed to timely updates and direct access, so you always know where your case stands and what comes next. From municipal matters to complex Superior Court litigation, we work to protect your rights and pursue fair results. Contact 856-856-2373 to learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.
Criminal and DUI cases move quickly, especially at the municipal level. After an arrest or summons, the court schedules initial appearances, discovery is exchanged, and the prosecutor evaluates charges and potential resolutions. You may face choices about pleas, motions to suppress evidence, or entry into diversion programs when available. Indictable offenses proceed to the Superior Court in Passaic County, where timelines and procedures differ. Throughout, we examine the stop, search, statements, and evidence handling to challenge weaknesses and protect your rights. Our goal is to pursue dismissals, downgrades, or alternatives when appropriate, and to position your case for trial only if it advances your interests.
In personal injury matters, the process begins with prompt medical care and documentation. We gather records, witness statements, photographs, and any available video to establish liability and damages. Insurance carriers often request recorded statements or quick settlements that may undervalue your losses. We handle adjuster communications, build a detailed damages picture, and explore coverage from all available policies. If negotiation does not produce fair compensation, we prepare for litigation while continuing to seek a sensible resolution. Our approach balances efficiency with thoroughness, aiming to secure compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and future needs. From the first meeting, we map out a plan that fits your timeline and priorities.
Criminal defense involves defending against charges brought by the state, from traffic and DUI matters in municipal court to indictable offenses in the Superior Court. The government bears the burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Personal injury law, by contrast, addresses harm caused by another party’s negligence, such as a careless driver or unsafe property condition. These cases are civil and typically resolve through insurance claims or lawsuits, where liability and damages are proven by a preponderance of the evidence. Understanding the different standards, timelines, and negotiation dynamics helps you make informed choices. We explain each step, evaluate options, and align strategy with your goals and risk tolerance.
For criminal and DUI cases, we focus on early intervention, discovery review, motion practice, and negotiations, while preparing for trial if needed. We scrutinize stops, searches, testing procedures, and identification to challenge unreliable evidence. For injury cases, we document medical care, wage loss, and pain, analyze fault, and negotiate with insurers against undervaluation. Mediation or arbitration can help resolve disputes efficiently; litigation remains available when fairness requires it. Throughout both tracks, we set a timeline, communicate developments, and reassess strategy as facts evolve. Our process is built to protect your rights, maintain leverage, and move the matter toward a fair resolution without unnecessary delay.
Legal terms can feel unfamiliar, especially when the situation is stressful. We translate court and insurance language into plain English so you always understand what is happening and why it matters. Whether your case is in Wanaque Municipal Court, Passaic County Superior Court, or with an insurance carrier, these concepts appear again and again. Knowing them helps you evaluate choices, anticipate the next step, and spot opportunities to strengthen your position. We take time to answer questions, review documents with you, and make sure you are comfortable with each decision. Clear information is the foundation for confident, informed action.
An arraignment is the first formal court appearance where charges are read and your rights are explained. In municipal court, this can occur soon after a summons or arrest; in Superior Court, it follows initial processing and screening. You typically enter a plea, and the court may address release conditions, including monitoring under New Jersey’s bail reform framework. The arraignment sets the stage for discovery, motion practice, and negotiations. Having counsel at this point helps ensure your rights are preserved, deadlines are met, and early opportunities are not missed. We prepare you for what to expect, communicate with the prosecutor, and begin shaping a strategic path forward.
Comparative negligence is a New Jersey rule that allocates fault among all parties in an injury case. If you are partly at fault, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if a jury finds you 20 percent responsible, your damages could be reduced by that amount. If you are more than 50 percent at fault, recovery may be barred. Insurance carriers frequently invoke comparative negligence to minimize claims. We counter by gathering evidence that clarifies how the incident occurred, highlights the other party’s conduct, and demonstrates the full extent of your injuries and losses. Proper documentation is essential to withstand these arguments.
Discovery is the exchange of evidence between the parties. In criminal cases, this includes police reports, body-cam footage, lab results, breath or blood testing data, and witness statements. We analyze each item for constitutional and evidentiary issues and pursue additional materials when needed. In injury cases, discovery involves medical records, bills, incident reports, photographs, and expert opinions. Thorough discovery can reveal weaknesses in the opposing side’s position, open the door to targeted motions, and strengthen negotiations. We push for complete, timely disclosure and use what we learn to refine strategy, whether that points toward resolution or further litigation.
The statute of limitations sets the deadline for filing a lawsuit. In many New Jersey personal injury cases, the limit is two years from the date of the incident, though some claims have different timelines or special notice requirements, such as those involving public entities. Criminal cases have their own timing rules, which can vary by offense. Missing a deadline can end a claim or limit your options. We identify all applicable time limits early, preserve evidence promptly, and file on time when litigation is appropriate. Clear awareness of deadlines keeps your case on track and protects your right to pursue relief.
Some matters call for targeted assistance, while others benefit from end-to-end representation. Limited help can be appropriate when issues are narrow, facts are well documented, and the risk profile is modest. Full representation may be wise when charges are serious, injuries are significant, or disputes are complex. We start by assessing urgency, evidence, available programs, insurance coverage, and likely defenses. We then tailor our involvement to match your goals and budget. Whether you prefer brief guidance or a comprehensive approach, we will explain pros and cons clearly, so you can choose the level of support that fits your case and comfort level.
For straightforward traffic citations or minor municipal ordinance issues, limited-scope services can be a practical choice. If your record is clean, the facts are clear, and the likely outcome is predictable, focused assistance aimed at negotiating points, fines, or alternatives may be sufficient. We can review discovery, identify any defenses, and communicate with the municipal prosecutor to seek a favorable resolution without unnecessary steps. This approach can save time and cost while still protecting your driving record and insurance rates. If new information arises or the case becomes more complicated, we can adjust the strategy and expand representation as needed.
In some injury claims where fault is clear, injuries are well documented, and insurance coverage is adequate, a limited engagement may help you resolve the matter efficiently. We can organize medical records, present a demand, and handle negotiations focused on fair compensation without extensive litigation steps. This works best when liability is uncontested and your treatment course is stable. If the carrier undervalues the case or raises comparative negligence arguments, we will reassess and discuss whether deeper involvement is appropriate. The goal is to match the level of legal support to the complexity of your claim while safeguarding your recovery.
Indictable offenses and complicated DUI cases often require comprehensive representation due to higher stakes and intricate legal issues. These matters may involve constitutional challenges, forensic evidence, prior history, and significant exposure. We conduct a thorough review of stops, searches, testing procedures, and officer conduct, filing motions when appropriate. We also examine diversion eligibility, sentencing alternatives, and collateral consequences affecting employment or immigration. Full representation allows us to coordinate investigations, expert consultations, and detailed negotiations while remaining trial ready. With this approach, you receive sustained advocacy from the earliest stages through resolution, with strategy refined as evidence develops.
Severe injuries, contested fault, or limited insurance coverage typically call for an end-to-end approach. These cases often hinge on medical causation, long-term care needs, and accurate valuation of economic and non-economic losses. We coordinate with treating providers, obtain expert opinions when appropriate, and pursue all available policies and defendants. If an insurer disputes liability or damages, we prepare for litigation while continuing to press for a fair settlement. Comprehensive representation supports the sustained effort needed to overcome denial tactics, manage complex discovery, and present a compelling claim. This method gives your case the structure and momentum necessary to reach a just result.
A comprehensive strategy ensures early issue spotting, consistent pressure on the opposing side, and careful coordination of all moving parts. In criminal and DUI matters, we monitor deadlines, pursue targeted motions, and develop mitigation, all while maintaining trial readiness. In personal injury cases, we document treatment, gather proof of wage loss, and establish the full scope of damages to counter low settlement offers. With a complete plan, your case benefits from steady communication, clear milestones, and decisions made with full information. This approach reduces surprises, protects leverage, and keeps your goals front and center from start to finish.
End-to-end representation also creates continuity that can be decisive. When the same team handles intake, investigation, negotiations, and courtroom advocacy, patterns emerge, details are preserved, and strategy remains aligned. You are not re-explaining your story at each stage, and we are not reinventing the wheel. We build on momentum, refine arguments, and adapt to new developments without losing sight of the broader plan. This efficiency supports better preparation and clearer communication with you, the court, and the opposing side. Ultimately, a comprehensive approach helps translate careful planning into practical results while respecting your time and resources.
Proactive management means addressing problems before they grow. In a criminal case, early motions to suppress or exclude unreliable evidence can reshape negotiations and trial risk. In an injury matter, a timely preservation letter, prompt witness outreach, and organized medical documentation can prevent disputes and strengthen valuation. We create a timeline, assign tasks, and follow up relentlessly so deadlines are met and opportunities are not missed. This disciplined structure keeps your case moving and reduces surprises. By setting the pace early, we often gain leverage that carries through to resolution, whether that occurs at a conference, mediation, or in the courtroom.
Negotiations are most effective when the other side knows we are prepared to proceed if a fair offer does not materialize. We build settlement positions on a solid record: thorough discovery, credible damages proof, and clear legal arguments. In criminal cases, that can mean presenting mitigation, treatment progress, or legal challenges that make trial uncertain for the state. In injury cases, it means demonstrating liability and the full scope of your losses. Because we prepare as if the matter may be tried, we negotiate from strength while still prioritizing efficient, sensible outcomes that meet your goals.
Save photos, videos, dash-cam footage, medical records, receipts, and contact details for witnesses. In criminal cases, note dates, times, and locations to help reconstruct events and identify potential defenses. In injury matters, keep all treatment paperwork and follow-up instructions, and avoid repairing vehicles or property until it is documented. Create a simple file or digital folder and update it regularly. The earlier we receive these materials, the faster we can evaluate claims, issue preservation letters, and challenge incomplete narratives. Good documentation helps counter insurer tactics and supports targeted motions in court, often improving your negotiation leverage.
Attending all medical appointments, following treatment plans, and complying with court dates signal responsibility and credibility. For injury claims, consistent treatment creates a clear record connecting your symptoms to the incident. For criminal matters, timely program participation, counseling, or community service can support negotiations and demonstrate progress. Keep a calendar of deadlines, save proof of attendance, and notify us immediately if scheduling conflicts arise. If you have concerns about costs or logistics, we can discuss alternatives and documentation strategies. Steady follow-through strengthens your case, avoids penalties, and helps us present your situation in the best possible light.
Time can determine outcomes. In criminal and DUI matters, early action may unlock diversion opportunities, identify suppression issues, or limit exposure. In injury cases, prompt investigation preserves video, witnesses, and physical evidence that might otherwise disappear. We help you understand deadlines, avoid pitfalls, and establish a record that supports your goals. From the first conversation, we focus on the specific facts of your situation, align strategy with your priorities, and communicate steps clearly. The sooner you contact us, the more options we may have to shape the direction and pace of your case.
You do not need to navigate this alone. Our firm provides accessible, practical guidance grounded in local procedures in Haskell and across Passaic County. We handle the details—court filings, insurance communications, and evidence review—so you can focus on your life and recovery. With a clear plan and steady communication, we reduce uncertainty and keep your case moving. Whether you need limited guidance or full representation, we will explain costs and timelines up front. Call 856-856-2373 for a free consultation to discuss how we can protect your rights and pursue a fair result on your behalf.
Our firm routinely assists with DUI and traffic stops, disorderly persons offenses, theft and assault allegations, and juvenile matters arising in and around Haskell. We also handle injury claims from car collisions, pedestrian incidents, premises accidents, and dog bites. Many cases begin with a sudden event and quick deadlines—court dates, insurance calls, or medical choices. We respond promptly, gather the facts, and guide you through next steps. Whether your case is in Wanaque Municipal Court or headed to Passaic County Superior Court, we will align strategy with your goals and keep you informed from start to finish.
Stops on Route 287 and local roads can lead to DUI charges or traffic citations with significant consequences for your license, insurance, and employment. We analyze the basis for the stop, field sobriety testing, Alcotest procedures, and any body-cam footage to identify defenses and negotiation opportunities. Our goal is to protect your driving record, challenge unreliable evidence, and pursue outcomes such as downgrades or alternative resolutions when appropriate. From your first court date, we handle scheduling, discovery requests, and communication with the prosecutor, so you can focus on your life while we build your defense.
Injuries from car crashes, unsafe walkways, or hazardous property conditions can cause lasting pain, lost income, and costly treatment. We move quickly to document the scene, secure video, and obtain witness statements. We also gather medical records and consult with providers to understand your prognosis and future care needs. Insurers may seek quick settlements that do not reflect the full value of your loss. We counter with thorough documentation and a clear damages picture, pressing for fair compensation and preparing for litigation if necessary. Throughout, we keep you informed and make sure your voice guides the strategy.
Family-related charges and juvenile cases require careful handling to protect both legal interests and personal relationships. We address no-contact orders, program requirements, and school or employment concerns while pursuing defenses and alternatives. For juvenile matters, we focus on rehabilitation and outcomes that minimize long-term impact. We coordinate with the court and, when helpful, counselors or service providers to present a fuller picture of your circumstances. Our aim is to resolve the case with the least lasting harm while safeguarding your rights at every stage. We will walk you through each step and options for moving forward constructively.
You deserve attentive counsel that understands the local landscape. We handle criminal defense, DUI, and personal injury cases with the same disciplined approach: early analysis, organized evidence, and consistent communication. Our firm is accessible and straightforward. We explain what to expect, outline options, and offer guidance tailored to your goals and risk tolerance. By acting quickly and keeping you informed, we work to minimize surprises and maintain leverage from start to finish. Your case receives the focused attention it needs to move toward a fair resolution.
Clear communication is central to our service. You will have timely updates, prompt responses, and a roadmap for what comes next. We discuss costs and timelines up front, so you can plan with confidence. For injury cases, we can explain fee structures and how costs are managed. For criminal matters, we outline anticipated stages and opportunities to resolve or narrow issues. We aim to reduce stress by handling the legal heavy lifting while ensuring you remain informed and involved in each key decision.
Preparation drives outcomes. We investigate thoroughly, pursue targeted motions, and build strong settlement and trial positions. In criminal cases, we highlight defenses and mitigation while staying ready for court when it advances your interests. In injury matters, we document damages and push back against undervaluation. Throughout, we tailor strategy to your needs—whether you prefer an early resolution or a patient approach to maximize results. With our firm, you have a dedicated team focused on protecting your rights and achieving a fair, durable outcome.
Every case begins with a careful intake so we understand your goals and timeline. We gather documents, evaluate risk, and set an action plan that fits your circumstances. Then we move to investigation and strategy—reviewing discovery, interviewing witnesses, and preparing motions or demands. We keep you informed and adjust as new facts develop. When resolution approaches, we negotiate from a position grounded in preparation, while staying ready for court if necessary. This structured approach is designed to protect your rights, maintain leverage, and deliver steady progress toward a fair result.
From day one, we focus on preserving your rights and evidence. In criminal cases, we address court scheduling, request discovery, and evaluate potential constitutional issues. In injury cases, we secure medical records, notify insurers, and begin building a damages file. We explain each step, set expectations, and make sure you know what actions to avoid that could harm your case. This early work creates the foundation for effective motion practice, negotiations, and, if necessary, litigation. Our goal is to stabilize your situation quickly and position your case for success.
We collect incident reports, summonses, charging documents, photographs, videos, and medical records, then organize them for quick analysis. In many cases, the initial review reveals opportunities for early motions, preservation letters, or targeted outreach to witnesses. We also identify missing materials and request them immediately. Clear organization allows us to spot issues and map a plan across weeks and months rather than reacting in the moment. You will receive specific guidance on what to track, save, and avoid while we handle communications with courts, prosecutors, or insurers.
We promptly notify relevant parties that you are represented, shift communications to our office, and confirm key dates and deadlines. In criminal matters, we coordinate with the court and prosecutor regarding appearances, discovery, and potential program eligibility. In injury cases, we open claims, deliver notice letters, and start gathering coverage information. This early contact sets expectations, prevents misunderstandings, and helps avoid unnecessary pressure on you. It also allows us to begin shaping the narrative with accurate information and timely requests tailored to your case.
We dig into the facts and law supporting your position. In criminal cases, that includes reviewing body-cam footage, lab results, and officer reports for inconsistencies or legal issues. In injury cases, we analyze liability, obtain medical opinions when appropriate, and compile a comprehensive damages package. We also research legal questions that may affect negotiations or trial. Throughout, we reassess strategy with you, incorporating new information and your preferences. This phase drives the strength of motions, settlement discussions, and courtroom presentations.
Our team collects and reviews all available records while pushing for anything missing or delayed. We identify witnesses, evaluate expert needs, and research statutes, case law, and procedural rules that shape your options. In injury matters, we coordinate with providers to document diagnoses, treatment, and prognosis. In criminal cases, we examine testing protocols, chain-of-custody records, and interview notes. This work supports targeted motions, persuasive settlement positions, and a focused trial plan if needed.
We develop a negotiation plan grounded in facts and law. For criminal matters, we present mitigation, legal challenges, and realistic alternatives that address court concerns while protecting your future. For injury cases, we prepare a demand that fully reflects your losses and responds to anticipated defenses, including comparative negligence arguments. We also review the range of likely outcomes so you can make informed decisions about settlement versus continued litigation. Throughout, we communicate options clearly and adjust strategy as circumstances change.
As resolution approaches, we refine your options and weigh risks and benefits with you. Criminal cases may resolve through dismissal, downgrade, diversion, or trial. Injury cases may settle through negotiations, mediation, or proceed to court when needed. We prepare thoroughly for whichever path you choose, ensuring filings, exhibits, and witnesses are ready. After resolution, we advise on record impacts, compliance, or liens and costs. Our focus is delivering a result that is fair, durable, and aligned with your priorities.
We implement the agreed strategy with precision—finalizing settlement documents, presenting motions, or conducting hearings and trials. In settlement, we confirm terms, address liens, and ensure funds are processed properly. In court, we present evidence clearly, challenge weaknesses in the other side’s case, and protect your rights at each step. We also keep you updated in real time so you understand what is happening and why.
After your case concludes, questions often remain. We advise on expungement eligibility, compliance requirements, insurance issues, and medical bill handling. If follow-up filings are needed, we map out timelines and responsibilities. For injury cases, we work to close out liens and finalize documentation. For criminal matters, we ensure you understand any conditions and how to avoid future problems. Our goal is to leave you informed, prepared, and supported beyond the final decision.
Stay calm, avoid discussing details with anyone but your attorney, and do not consent to searches or questioning without counsel present. If you have documentation from the arrest, keep it organized and contact our office immediately. We will review the charges, advise you on rights and timelines, and handle communications with the court and prosecutor. Early guidance helps protect your record and preserves potential defenses. We will request discovery, evaluate the stop, statements, and any testing procedures, and identify opportunities for dismissal, downgrade, or alternative resolutions. If a court date is scheduled, we will prepare you for what to expect, address release conditions, and create a plan to move your case in the right direction from the start.
Even a first-time DUI can carry license consequences, fines, and other penalties. The details matter: basis for the stop, field sobriety testing, Alcotest procedures, and body-cam footage may significantly affect outcomes. An attorney can challenge questionable evidence, pursue alternatives when available, and guide you through Wanaque Municipal Court procedures. We will analyze discovery, look for procedural and evidentiary issues, and develop a negotiation or motion plan tailored to your case. Our goal is to protect your driving privileges, minimize penalties, and position you for the best available resolution. Call us early so we can start preserving your options.
Many New Jersey personal injury cases have a two-year statute of limitations, but timelines can vary. Claims involving public entities may require early notices with strict deadlines. Some injuries are discovered later, affecting when the clock starts. Because missing a deadline can end your claim, it is wise to contact an attorney promptly. We will identify all applicable time limits, preserve key evidence, and map out a filing strategy if settlement is not possible. The sooner we evaluate your case, the more opportunities we have to gather records, locate witnesses, and present a complete damages picture to insurers or the court.
Court appearances depend on the type of case and stage of the process. Some municipal matters can be resolved without multiple in-person appearances, while others require attendance. In injury cases, many claims settle without a court hearing, though litigation may involve conferences, depositions, or trial. We will explain what to expect, when attendance is required, and how to prepare. If appearances are necessary, we handle scheduling, filings, and presentation, and we ensure you are ready for each step. Our goal is efficient progress and a fair result with minimal disruption to your life whenever possible.
After a car accident, compensation may include medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and, in appropriate cases, pain and suffering. Coverage depends on policy elections, available limits, and fault. Documenting treatment, symptoms, and how your life has been affected is essential to support your claim. We gather medical records, wage documentation, and other proof of loss, then present a detailed demand to the insurer. If negotiations do not produce a fair offer, we prepare for litigation while continuing to seek a sensible settlement. We will guide you on steps that strengthen your case and avoid pitfalls that can reduce recovery.
It is generally best to avoid speaking with an insurance adjuster before consulting an attorney. Statements can be taken out of context or used to minimize your claim. Insurers may ask for recorded statements or quick medical authorizations that are not in your best interest. We will handle communications with the carrier, control the flow of information, and make sure your claim is accurately documented. When statements are appropriate, we prepare you and participate to avoid misunderstandings. This measured approach helps protect your rights and supports a fair result.
Dismissals and downgrades are possible in some cases, depending on the facts, legal issues, and your history. Factors include constitutional challenges, evidentiary weaknesses, mitigation, and program eligibility. Each case is unique, so a careful review of discovery is essential. We examine the stop, search, statements, and testing procedures, then pursue targeted motions or negotiations based on what we find. We will explain realistic outcomes and craft a plan to seek the best available resolution, whether that means dismissal, downgrade, alternative programs, or preparing for trial when it serves your interests.
New Jersey follows comparative negligence, which means your recovery can be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50 percent responsible, you may be barred from recovering. Insurers often argue shared fault to lower settlement offers. We respond by documenting how the incident occurred, gathering witness statements, and presenting medical evidence that links your injuries to the event. By strengthening liability and damages proof, we aim to minimize fault arguments and support fair compensation for the full impact of your injuries.
We provide clear, upfront information about fees and anticipated costs. For injury cases, we can discuss contingency arrangements and how expenses are handled. For criminal and DUI matters, we outline a fee structure that reflects the scope of work and case complexity. Our priority is transparency, predictable billing, and value. We tailor the level of representation to your needs—limited assistance when appropriate or comprehensive services for complex matters. In all cases, you will know what to expect so you can plan with confidence.
We can typically begin working on your case the same day you contact us. Immediate steps may include notifying the court or insurer that you are represented, requesting discovery, and securing time-sensitive evidence. Early involvement helps preserve options and leverage. Call 856-856-2373 to schedule a free consultation. We will listen to your concerns, outline a customized plan, and start the process of protecting your rights. From there, we will keep you informed at each stage and adjust strategy as new information develops.