If you were charged with possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance in Sixmile Run, the decisions you make now can shape your case and your future. New Jersey’s CDS laws, including N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10, are enforced in both municipal and Superior Court depending on the substance, quantity, and alleged conduct. Penalties can include fines, probation, license consequences, and potential jail exposure, along with collateral impacts on employment, schooling, and immigration status. Local stops on Somerset County roads, searches of vehicles or backpacks, and items found in shared spaces commonly lead to these charges. The right defense can challenge how evidence was obtained and explore options that protect your record.
At the Law Office of Edward Appel, we represent people facing CDS possession charges in Sixmile Run and across Somerset County. Our approach focuses on early intervention, careful evidence review, and clear communication so you understand your choices at every stage. Whether the goal is diversion, suppression, negotiation, or trial, we tailor strategies to your priorities and background. We work closely with clients and families to limit disruption and protect long-term opportunities. If you have questions about your rights, timelines, or what to do next, call 856-856-2373 for straightforward guidance and a confidential conversation about your situation.
Acting quickly after a CDS possession arrest helps preserve defenses and options that might not be available later. Early legal help can stop avoidable mistakes, such as making statements, missing deadlines, or overlooking suppression arguments. A focused plan can examine the stop, search, seizure, testing, and chain-of-custody to challenge weakness in the State’s proof. At the same time, we assess eligibility for conditional discharge, drug court, or other diversion paths that can reduce exposure and protect your record. For many people, avoiding a conviction, limiting collateral damage, and building a path forward are the top goals. A prompt, strategic response gives you more leverage to pursue the outcome you want.
The Law Office of Edward Appel is a New Jersey firm focused on Personal Injury, Criminal Defense, and DUI matters, with a strong commitment to clients facing CDS possession charges in Sixmile Run and Somerset County. Our work emphasizes thorough preparation, practical guidance, and measured advocacy in municipal and Superior Court. We value responsiveness, plain-language explanations, and realistic goals grounded in the facts and law. From first-time offenses to more complex allegations, we handle discovery, negotiations, motions, and hearings with the same careful process. Clients trust our steady communication and consistent follow-through, knowing we will pursue opportunities to protect their record and future while keeping them informed at every turn.
New Jersey prosecutes CDS possession under a framework that considers the type of substance, amount, and circumstances. The State must prove possession and knowledge, which can be shown as actual possession (on your person) or constructive possession (control or dominion over the item). Common evidence includes officer observations, statements, lab results, and items found in vehicles, residences, or backpacks. The defense often centers on whether police had a lawful basis for the stop, search, and seizure, whether testing and chain-of-custody are reliable, and whether statements were voluntary. Each detail matters, as a single misstep by law enforcement can undermine the State’s proof and open the door to dismissal or reduction.
CDS possession charges vary in severity from municipal court cases to indictable offenses in Superior Court. First-time offenders may be considered for conditional discharge in municipal court, allowing supervision instead of a conviction when successfully completed. In Superior Court, diversion through Pretrial Intervention or drug court may be options depending on eligibility and case specifics. Penalties can include fines, probation, community service, license impacts, and potential incarceration, with additional consequences for school, work, and immigration. A tailored defense evaluates the forum, the nature of the substance, available programs, and constitutional challenges. In Sixmile Run, acting early to understand your path can meaningfully change the direction of your case.
Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance in New Jersey generally requires proof that you knowingly possessed a prohibited substance without authorization. Prosecutors often rely on actual possession, where the item is found on the person, or constructive possession, where the facts suggest control over where the substance was located. The State must also show the seized item is in fact a CDS, which typically requires lab testing and proper chain-of-custody. Many defenses target how police initiated contact, developed probable cause, searched containers or vehicles, and seized evidence. Suppression motions can exclude evidence obtained in violation of constitutional rights, dramatically changing leverage for negotiation, diversion, or dismissal.
A CDS possession case usually turns on three issues: whether police had a lawful reason to stop and search, whether the item is legally a CDS, and whether the State can prove knowing possession. After an arrest in Sixmile Run, you may face an initial appearance, discovery exchanges, and pretrial conferences. We obtain reports, video, testing records, and chain-of-custody documents to assess the strength of the case. Where appropriate, we file motions to suppress or limit the State’s evidence. Alongside litigation, we evaluate diversion such as conditional discharge, PTI, or drug court. Each step is used to protect your rights while positioning the case for the best available resolution.
Understanding common terms can make the process far less confusing. CDS stands for Controlled Dangerous Substance, which includes certain prescription medications, heroin, cocaine, and other regulated substances. Actual possession means the item is on your person; constructive possession means you had control over the area where it was found. Diversion programs such as conditional discharge or PTI provide a path to avoid a conviction when eligibility is met. Drug court focuses on treatment and accountability for certain defendants. These options depend heavily on your record, the charge, and county practices. We explain how each concept applies to your case and what it means for your goals.
A Controlled Dangerous Substance is any drug or chemical regulated by New Jersey law, including certain prescription medications when possessed without a valid prescription. Common examples include heroin, cocaine, and some synthetic substances. Classification and penalties vary by schedule, quantity, and context. In a possession case, prosecutors must show the item is a CDS and that testing and chain-of-custody are reliable. The defense often examines whether police had a lawful basis for the stop and search, whether the seizure was proper, and whether the lab results meet evidentiary standards. Understanding what qualifies as a CDS is central to assessing exposure and identifying strategies for challenge or diversion.
Conditional discharge is a municipal court diversion program for certain first-time drug offenders in New Jersey. If accepted, a defendant completes a period of supervision with conditions such as testing, counseling, and staying arrest-free. Successful completion typically results in a dismissal of the charge, which can help protect a person’s record and future opportunities. Eligibility depends on the offense, prior history, and judicial discretion. Although conditional discharge does not fit every case, it can be a meaningful option for defendants charged with simple possession in Sixmile Run municipal court. Early evaluation is important because timing, documentation, and case posture can influence whether this path is available.
Actual possession means a CDS was found directly on the person, in clothing, or otherwise immediately accessible. Constructive possession is more nuanced; it refers to control over the area where the substance was located, such as a vehicle console, backpack, or shared room. Prosecutors often argue that familiar access, statements, or behavior shows control. The defense may counter by highlighting shared spaces, lack of fingerprints, inconsistent statements, or the absence of personal items linking a client to the CDS. This distinction is often decisive in Sixmile Run cases arising from car stops or group settings, and a careful factual record can make or break the State’s theory of possession.
Diversion programs provide an alternative path to traditional prosecution and can include conditional discharge in municipal court, Pretrial Intervention in Superior Court, and drug court for eligible defendants. These programs emphasize accountability, treatment, and supervision rather than a conviction. Eligibility depends on offense type, prior history, county practices, and how the case is charged. For some Sixmile Run defendants, diversion can reduce exposure, avoid a record, or create a structured path toward dismissal. Timely screening is important because acceptance often hinges on the early presentation of background materials, progress in counseling, and a well-documented plan that addresses the court’s concerns about future compliance and community safety.
Every CDS possession case requires a tailored defense. Some matters are best resolved through limited, short-term strategies that focus on immediate issues and negotiation. Others call for a comprehensive plan that includes motion practice, diversion screening, and readiness for hearing or trial. We evaluate the stop, search, testing, and your personal background to determine which path offers the most value. A first-time municipal court case might be handled efficiently through conditional discharge, while a Superior Court case with questionable police conduct may benefit from robust litigation. Our role is to explain the tradeoffs, predict likely outcomes, and help you choose the approach that fits your goals and risk tolerance.
If you are a first-time offender in Sixmile Run municipal court with a simple possession allegation, a limited strategy can be effective. The focus may be on obtaining discovery quickly, confirming eligibility for conditional discharge, addressing any immediate concerns like license or employment, and negotiating an outcome that avoids a conviction. This approach is often efficient, cost-conscious, and geared toward getting back on track with minimal disruption. Even in a limited plan, we examine the stop and search for issues that could strengthen your negotiating position. The goal is to protect your record, reduce stress, and move forward with the least long-term impact possible.
Where the alleged substance is a small quantity and your history is clean, a focused, short-term plan may provide the best balance of speed and outcome. We still request reports, videos, and lab documentation, but the strategy may prioritize diversion or a negotiated resolution over extensive motion practice. This can minimize court dates and costs while preserving opportunities for dismissal or reduction. The key is to act early, avoid statements that limit your options, and carefully comply with any interim conditions. Even if a limited approach is appropriate, we remain ready to pivot if discovery reveals legal issues that warrant a more aggressive posture in court.
If your case involves a questionable stop, a warrantless search, or disputed consent, a comprehensive defense is often the smartest choice. We dig into body camera footage, dispatch records, affidavits, and the precise timeline to test the State’s version of events. Suppression motions can exclude evidence obtained in violation of constitutional protections, transforming the trajectory of the case. This approach takes time and patience, but it may substantially improve leverage for negotiation or lead to dismissal. In Sixmile Run and across Somerset County, thorough litigation on search and seizure can be decisive, particularly when the initial basis for the stop or subsequent search is weak or inconsistent.
When CDS possession is part of a larger case—such as accompanying paraphernalia charges, probation issues, or prior convictions—a comprehensive plan helps manage risk on all fronts. We coordinate timelines, address exposure in both municipal and Superior Court, and develop a mitigation record that includes treatment, employment, and community ties. This broader strategy can influence charging decisions, diversion eligibility, and final outcomes. It also reduces the chance of surprises by anticipating collateral issues like license impacts or immigration concerns. By treating the case as a whole, we work to protect your record, negotiate strategically, and present a credible, well-documented picture of rehabilitation and future compliance.
A comprehensive defense gives you more options and better leverage. By fully examining the stop, search, and lab work, we can identify weaknesses that support negotiation or dismissal. At the same time, early mitigation—such as counseling, education, and community support—shows the court a forward-looking plan. This dual track prepares the case for success no matter which path it takes, ensuring you are positioned for diversion if eligible and ready for litigation if needed. The result is a defense built to adapt as discovery unfolds, protect your rights at every stage, and keep the focus on outcomes that safeguard your record and long-term goals.
Clients also benefit from clear communication and predictable steps. A comprehensive plan maps out deadlines, hearing dates, and decision points so you always know what comes next. We track discovery, file targeted motions, and coordinate any treatment or education with your schedule. This structure reduces anxiety and helps you make informed choices when opportunities arise. In Sixmile Run, where cases often develop from traffic stops and shared-space situations, a well-organized defense ensures that important details are not missed. It also demonstrates to the court and prosecutor that you take the process seriously, which can meaningfully improve the tone and substance of negotiations.
Diversion options like conditional discharge, PTI, or drug court can change the stakes in a CDS possession case by avoiding a conviction or shifting the focus to treatment and accountability. A comprehensive approach identifies eligibility early, assembles records that support acceptance, and coordinates progress in counseling or education. At the same time, detailed review of the stop, search, and lab work may reveal suppression issues or evidentiary problems that strengthen negotiation. Together, these efforts create multiple paths to a favorable outcome. The greater the preparation, the more you can pivot toward the path that protects your record, reduces penalties, and reflects your long-term goals.
A CDS possession case can impact employment, licensing, education, and immigration. A thorough defense is designed to protect your record and preserve opportunities. We consider background checks, professional applications, and school policies when shaping strategy. Where available, we pursue outcomes that avoid formal convictions and minimize public exposure. We also plan for next steps, including potential expungement when the time is right. By keeping your broader goals front and center, we align negotiations, diversion, and litigation with what matters most to you. This forward-looking approach helps ensure that the resolution not only closes the case but also supports your future plans.
Well-meaning explanations can be misunderstood or used against you. Avoid making statements to police, school officials, or third parties about the facts of your case. Even casual remarks or texts can create confusion about who owned an item or how it was found. Instead, write down what happened while it is fresh, note names and times, and share that information privately with your attorney. Preserve voicemail, messages, and contact information for potential witnesses. Silence is not evasive; it is a lawful choice that protects your rights while you evaluate options like diversion, suppression, or negotiation based on a complete and accurate record.
Judges often look favorably on people who take proactive steps. If appropriate, consider an evaluation, counseling, or a drug education program. Completing sessions early can support eligibility for diversion or strengthen negotiation for a reduced outcome. Keep attendance records and certificates, and share them with your attorney to include in your mitigation package. If treatment is not appropriate, education on law and safety can still demonstrate responsibility. The goal is to show the court you are taking steps that reduce future risk. In Sixmile Run, these efforts can help you stand out, improve leverage, and align the case with your long-term plans.
A CDS possession charge can feel overwhelming, especially after a traffic stop or search. Early guidance lets you avoid harmful missteps and make informed choices. An attorney can help challenge the basis for the stop, test the reliability of lab results, and seek diversion where available. You will also receive help preparing for court, managing deadlines, and gathering documents that support your goals. In addition, a focused strategy can address collateral issues like employment, schooling, and immigration. Even if you think the case is minor, a single conviction can have outsized effects. A short conversation can clarify options and reduce stress.
Local knowledge matters when navigating municipal and Superior Court in Somerset County. From how discovery is handled to the timing of diversion applications, small procedural differences can impact outcomes. A lawyer can coordinate records, communicate with prosecutors, and present a complete mitigation plan that tells your story. You will understand the likely paths ahead—diversion, negotiation, or litigation—and what each one requires of you. The process becomes more predictable, with fewer surprises and better preparation for key hearings. In Sixmile Run, a measured and proactive approach can help you protect your record, minimize disruption, and move forward with confidence.
Many CDS possession cases in Sixmile Run begin with routine traffic stops, minor equipment violations, or calls regarding suspicious activity. Officers may observe odors, visible items, or behavior that leads to a search of a vehicle, backpack, or person. Charges also arise from items found in shared spaces, such as a glove box, trunk, or a common room. In each scenario, the legal questions are similar: Was the stop justified? Was consent valid? Did probable cause exist? Is the testing reliable? Were statements voluntary? Understanding how these issues apply to your facts helps identify opportunities for suppression, diversion, or negotiation that limit long-term consequences.
A simple traffic stop on a Sixmile Run roadway can quickly escalate into a CDS investigation. An officer might claim to smell an odor, see an item in plain view, or rely on nervous behavior. The legality of the stop, the basis for extending the interaction, and the scope of any search are all scrutinized. Body camera footage, dispatch logs, and the exact timeline can make a significant difference. If a search exceeded legal limits or consent was not valid, suppression may be possible. Even when the stop appears routine, careful review often reveals issues that improve negotiating leverage or support a path toward dismissal.
CDS possession charges often stem from items discovered in a car or backpack. The State may argue that proximity or access equals control, while the defense shows the container was shared or not linked to you. Consent, probable cause, and the use of a warrant are central questions, along with whether the container’s search was within the permissible scope. Chain-of-custody and lab testing also matter, as do fingerprints or the lack of personal identifiers. A detailed review can expose gaps in proof, opening opportunities for reduced charges, diversion eligibility, or dismissal. In many cases, facts about ownership and access are the turning point.
When CDS is found in a shared room, common area, or vehicle, the State often relies on constructive possession—arguing you had control over the place where the item was discovered. The defense challenges that assumption by highlighting shared access, other occupants, and the absence of evidence linking the item to you. Statements, fingerprints, and personal property can all play a role. We also examine how officers gained entry, whether consent was valid, and whether the search was properly limited. These cases frequently turn on small details and careful cross-examination. A thorough record of who else had access can powerfully undercut the State’s theory.
Our firm focuses on clear communication, careful preparation, and tailored strategies for CDS possession cases. We know that every client’s story is different, so we listen closely and align the defense with your priorities. From the first call, you will know what to expect, what documents to gather, and how we plan to challenge or negotiate the case. We do the detail work—reviewing reports, body camera footage, and lab results—so you can make decisions with confidence. Our approach is steady and practical: identify weaknesses, build mitigation, and seek meaningful outcomes that protect your record and future opportunities.
Local knowledge helps when navigating municipal and Superior Court in Somerset County. We are familiar with how discovery moves, what materials support diversion, and how to frame negotiation to address the concerns of the court and prosecutor. You can expect prompt updates, realistic timelines, and direct answers to your questions. We coordinate treatment or education where appropriate and present a complete mitigation package to support your goals. The result is a defense built to adapt as the case unfolds, with a plan for each stage and a focus on protecting what matters most to you and your family.
We understand the stress that follows an arrest and the uncertainty that court brings. Our job is to reduce that stress by giving you a roadmap, explaining your options, and advocating for outcomes that align with your life. We handle the legal heavy lifting while you focus on work, school, and family. When questions arise, you will reach a responsive team that knows your case. Whether we are pursuing conditional discharge, PTI, or litigating a suppression motion, you will be prepared for each step. Call 856-856-2373 to start the conversation and begin moving toward resolution.
Our process is built to find opportunities early and protect your rights throughout the case. We begin with a detailed intake and document request, then move quickly for discovery, including reports, body camera footage, and lab materials. We evaluate the stop, search, and seizure for potential suppression issues and assess eligibility for diversion. You will receive a clear plan with milestones, likely timelines, and decision points. As the case develops, we update strategy to reflect new facts and opportunities. Whether the matter is in Sixmile Run municipal court or Somerset County Superior Court, the goal is the same: a focused defense that serves your priorities.
In the first stage, we gather the facts and organize the case. We request discovery, including police reports, video, and lab documents, and obtain any records you have. We identify witnesses, collect contact information, and preserve text messages, photos, or receipts that may help. We also discuss goals, employment or school constraints, and any concerns about immigration or licensing. With these details, we map out the likely paths—diversion, negotiation, or litigation—and outline what each requires. This structure allows you to make informed choices and ensures we move quickly to secure opportunities and prevent avoidable missteps or missed deadlines.
We start by building a clear timeline from the first police interaction to the filing of the charge. That includes reviewing body camera footage, dispatch logs, and affidavits to understand why the stop occurred, how consent was obtained, and whether the search stayed within legal limits. We verify the CDS identification process, chain-of-custody, and any field testing described in the reports. When appropriate, we consult publicly available information, request additional records, and preserve camera footage before it is overwritten. This foundation helps us identify suppression issues, evaluate exposure, and spot leverage for negotiation or diversion while the case is still taking shape.
Your goals—protecting a record, maintaining employment, avoiding school discipline, or addressing treatment—form the core of our plan. We discuss potential outcomes and their impacts so you can make informed choices. Risk assessment covers the strength of the State’s proof, your prior history, and likely court practices in Sixmile Run and Somerset County. We also address collateral issues like immigration, licensing, and background checks. With this information, we help you prioritize between diversion, negotiation, and litigation. A transparent assessment reduces anxiety and keeps the defense aligned with what matters most, ensuring each step advances your goals.
With discovery in hand, we challenge weaknesses in the State’s case and build a mitigation record that tells your story. Suppression motions may target the stop, consent, or search scope. We scrutinize lab testing and chain-of-custody for reliability issues. Meanwhile, we gather materials that show stability and responsibility, such as employment records, counseling progress, or education certificates. These efforts work together—litigation pressure can improve negotiation, and mitigation can unlock diversion. The result is a stronger position whether the case moves toward dismissal, reduction, or alternative programs in municipal or Superior Court.
When a stop or search appears unlawful, we file targeted motions supported by reports, video, and sworn statements. We challenge the basis for the stop, the extension of the encounter, the voluntariness of consent, and the scope of any search. We also examine whether the State can link the CDS to you through actual or constructive possession. A strong suppression motion can exclude evidence and reshape the case, often leading to better negotiation or dismissal. Careful preparation and a clear record give the court a reliable basis to rule, and they help prosecutors see the strengths and weaknesses of their position.
At the same time, we evaluate programs like conditional discharge, PTI, or drug court. We prepare applications and supporting materials that highlight positive factors: steady work or school, community ties, and progress in counseling. Timing matters, so we coordinate submissions with court schedules and ongoing negotiations. The goal is to present a complete picture that addresses the court’s concerns about compliance and future conduct. By pursuing diversion and litigation in parallel, you maintain multiple avenues to a favorable result and can pivot quickly as discovery and plea discussions evolve.
In the final stage, we bring together the facts, legal challenges, and mitigation to seek the best available outcome. Depending on what discovery and motions reveal, a negotiated resolution, diversion, or contested hearing may be appropriate. We communicate clearly about likely results, timelines, and what each option means for your record. If the case proceeds to hearing or trial, we are prepared with a focused, fact-based presentation and a plan for cross-examination. Throughout, you receive prompt updates and practical guidance so you can make decisions with confidence and move forward as the case concludes.
Negotiation is most effective when backed by a strong record. We leverage suppression issues, testing concerns, and mitigation to seek outcomes that protect your future. Options may include diversion, dismissals, amendments to lesser offenses, or agreements that limit collateral consequences. We address the court’s interest in accountability by presenting counseling, education, and community support where appropriate. At each turn, we explain the benefits and tradeoffs so you can choose the path that aligns with your goals. The aim is a resolution that reflects the facts and your progress while minimizing long-term impact.
If a hearing or trial is necessary, preparation becomes the priority. We refine the timeline, identify the key witnesses, and organize exhibits. We plan cross-examination around inconsistencies in reports, video, and statements, and we ensure the court understands the legal issues, including constructive possession and chain-of-custody. You will know what to expect in the courtroom and how to present yourself. This readiness often improves negotiation as well, since it shows the case is organized and trial-ready. Our focus remains steady: protect your rights, pursue the strongest defense available, and position you for the best result possible.
Possession of a CDS generally means knowingly having a prohibited substance without authorization under New Jersey law. The State can prove this through actual possession, where the substance is on your person, or constructive possession, where they claim you controlled the area where it was found. Prosecutors must also show the item is a CDS, usually through lab testing and proper chain-of-custody. Defenses often focus on whether the stop or search was lawful, whether consent was valid, and whether testing is reliable. Each case turns on its facts, including where the item was found and what statements were made.
Jail is not automatic for a first CDS possession offense, especially in municipal court for simple possession. Many first-time defendants are considered for conditional discharge, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion of supervision and conditions. Eligibility depends on your record, the charge, and the court’s assessment. Even without diversion, negotiation can reduce exposure. Every case is different, so early evaluation is important. We assess defenses, screening for diversion, and mitigation steps that support a favorable outcome while protecting your record and long-term opportunities in Sixmile Run.
Conditional discharge is a municipal court diversion program for certain first-time drug offenders. If accepted, you complete a period of supervision, follow conditions, and remain arrest-free. Successful completion typically results in dismissal of the charge. Qualification depends on your history, the nature of the offense, and the court’s discretion. Early screening helps, along with documentation such as employment, schooling, or counseling records. If conditional discharge is not available, we explore alternatives like PTI in Superior Court or negotiated resolutions that protect your future.
Police need lawful grounds to stop your vehicle and a valid basis to search it. A warrant, probable cause, or valid consent can justify a search, but the scope must be limited to what law permits under the circumstances. We examine body camera footage, reports, and the timeline for inconsistencies. If the stop was improper, consent was coerced, or the search exceeded its scope, suppression may be possible. Excluding evidence can dramatically change the case and improve leverage for dismissal, diversion, or reduction.
Constructive possession means prosecutors claim you had control over the area where the CDS was found, such as a glove box or shared room, even if it wasn’t on your person. The defense often highlights shared access, lack of fingerprints, missing personal items, or inconsistent statements. The goal is to show that ownership or control cannot be reliably linked to you. These cases frequently turn on small details and careful cross-examination of officers and witnesses.
A CDS possession conviction can affect employment, licensing, education, and immigration. It may appear in background checks and complicate future opportunities. Penalties can include fines, probation, community service, and potential jail exposure depending on the charge. We work to avoid a conviction through diversion, motion practice, or negotiation. When appropriate, we plan for later expungement and minimize collateral consequences. Early action helps preserve options that protect your record and long-term goals.
It is generally safer not to speak with police or prosecutors about the facts of your case without legal counsel. Well-intended explanations can be misunderstood or taken out of context. Instead, document what happened while it is fresh and share it privately with your attorney. This protects your rights and preserves defenses. Strategic communication can occur later, if helpful, once the facts and legal posture are clear.
Defenses may include challenging the stop, search, or consent; disputing constructive possession; attacking lab testing or chain-of-custody; and excluding statements that were not voluntary. Each defense depends on the specific facts and evidence. We build leverage by combining legal challenges with mitigation and diversion eligibility. The stronger the record, the better the options for dismissal, reduction, or program-based outcomes that protect your future.
Timelines vary based on the court, complexity, and motion practice. Municipal court cases may resolve in a few months, particularly when diversion is available. Superior Court matters often take longer, especially if motions are filed. We provide a roadmap with expected milestones and updates as the case progresses. Early organization, prompt discovery, and proactive mitigation can shorten timelines and improve outcomes in Somerset County.
Bring tickets, summonses, court notices, and any paperwork you were given. Save digital copies of photos, messages, or receipts that might be relevant. A short written timeline helps, including names and contact information for any witnesses. If you started counseling or education, bring documentation. We will discuss goals, employment or school constraints, and concerns about immigration or licensing. The more complete the picture, the better we can plan your defense.