Facing allegations of a white collar offense in Union can be overwhelming. The Law Office of Edward Appel in New Jersey provides representation for clients charged with offenses such as fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, or corporate misconduct. On this city-focused page we explain how local courts operate, what to expect during the early stages of an investigation, and the options available to preserve your rights. If you are under investigation or have been arrested in Union, understanding the process and securing timely legal guidance can make a meaningful difference in how the case proceeds and in potential outcomes.
White collar matters often involve detailed records, complex financial transactions, and coordination among investigators, prosecutors, and sometimes federal agencies. For residents and business owners in Union, New Jersey, these cases may affect livelihoods, professional standing, and personal freedom. This page outlines typical charges encountered in Union County, the investigative tools authorities use, and how the firm approaches defense planning. We focus on clear communication, careful review of financial documents, and aggressive protection of client rights at every stage from initial inquiry through negotiation or litigation when necessary.
A robust defense in white collar cases protects more than immediate freedom; it safeguards professional licenses, business reputations, and financial stability. In Union, charges can stem from audits, workplace investigations, or criminal complaints, and the consequences may include restitution, fines, and collateral civil exposure. Effective representation helps identify lawful defenses, challenge unlawful searches or procedures, and negotiate favorable resolutions where appropriate. Clients benefit from a methodical review of evidence, tailored strategies for interacting with investigators, and careful consideration of long-term implications for employment, immigration status, and personal finances.
The Law Office of Edward Appel serves clients across New Jersey with a focus that includes criminal defense and related matters. In Union we represent individuals and business owners accused of financial and regulatory offenses, drawing on courtroom experience and a practical understanding of local prosecutors and court procedures. Our approach combines thorough document review, proactive investigation, and constant client communication to build a clear defense path. We prioritize realistic advice and timely action to limit exposure, pursue dismissal when warranted, and seek outcomes that preserve livelihoods and legal rights in Union County courts.
White collar criminal defense in Union involves representation for alleged offenses that typically arise from business or financial dealings. Cases can include allegations of fraud, theft by deception, embezzlement, money laundering, tax crimes, and identity-related offenses. Defense work requires analyzing financial records, transaction histories, electronic communications, and regulatory filings to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Clients often face parallel civil investigations or administrative consequences, so defense planning considers potential cross-effects and aims to address immediate criminal issues while protecting clients from additional liability or public exposure.
The initial stages often include interviews, subpoenas, and requests for documents from employers or banks. In Union, cooperation with investigators should be handled carefully to avoid inadvertent admissions. A defense attorney will assess whether to produce documents, negotiate the scope of inquiries, or assert legal protections such as privilege where appropriate. The goal is to minimize damaging disclosures, preserve evidentiary objections, and create a factual record that supports dismissal, reduction of charges, or favorable resolution through negotiation. Timely representation is particularly important given the procedural complexities of financial investigations.
White collar offenses are nonviolent crimes that arise from business or financial activity and are frequently motivated by financial gain. In Union County these offenses may include insurance fraud, credit card fraud, mortgage fraud, forgery, and corporate embezzlement. Prosecutors rely on documentary evidence and forensic accounting to construct cases, and charges can be brought by state or federal authorities depending on the scope of conduct. Understanding the specific statutory elements of each offense is essential because a successful defense often involves challenging intent, demonstrating lawful transactions, or showing that alleged irregularities were accounting errors or misunderstandings rather than criminal conduct.
Successful defense work examines how evidence was gathered and whether legal procedures were followed, while also scrutinizing the interpretation of financial records. Typical defense tasks include reconstructing transaction histories, interviewing relevant witnesses, consulting accountants to explain complex entries, and defending against improper use of subpoenas or search warrants. In Union, coordination with local banks, employers, and regulators may be necessary. The process often requires a mix of negotiation to limit charges and litigation to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence or to dispute the prosecutor’s interpretation of the facts.
Understanding common legal and financial terms helps clients make informed decisions. This glossary provides plain-language definitions of phrases that frequently arise in investigations and prosecutions. Knowing terms such as indictment, grand jury, restitution, and ledger reconciliation can clarify what authorities are seeking and how potential defenses apply. For Union residents, familiarity with these concepts helps in conversations with counsel and when responding to document requests or interviews during an investigation. The following entries give concise explanations and practical context for each term.
Fraud refers to intentionally deceptive conduct designed to result in financial or personal gain at another party’s expense. In a legal context, proving fraud generally requires showing a false representation, knowledge of its falsity, intent to deceive, and resulting harm. In Union cases this might appear as false insurance claims, misrepresentations in business dealings, or forged documents. Defenses can include lack of intent, honest mistake, or no reliable evidence linking the accused to the deceptive act. Careful analysis of records and communications is essential to determine whether the elements of fraud are present.
Embezzlement describes the conversion of property or funds entrusted to someone for their own use without consent. Common scenarios in Union involve employees or managers accused of diverting business funds, misusing client accounts, or taking unauthorized withdrawals. A central defense often involves showing proper authorization, accounting errors, or lack of wrongful intent. Reviewing transactional authorization procedures, access logs, and oversight records can reveal whether allegations are the result of intentional theft or bookkeeping issues that do not rise to criminal conduct.
Money laundering involves processing proceeds of unlawful activity to disguise their origin, often through complex transfers, shell entities, or layered transactions. Prosecutors seek patterns that suggest concealment of illicit funds. In Union cases, alleged laundering may relate to business receipts, wire transfers, or real estate transactions. A defense might show legitimate business purposes, lack of knowledge of any underlying unlawful activity, or that funds were not proceeds of a crime. Detailed financial tracing and documentation of legitimate sources can be central to rebutting money laundering claims.
An indictment is a formal charge issued by a grand jury after reviewing evidence presented by prosecutors. The grand jury process allows prosecutors to seek charges without a public preliminary hearing. For Union residents, facing a grand jury can be a pivotal moment because it may lead to formal criminal prosecutions. A defense strategy may involve contesting the sufficiency of evidence presented to the grand jury, seeking to present exculpatory material through counsel, or negotiating alternatives before formal indictment. Understanding this step helps clients navigate early critical decisions in the criminal process.
When confronting white collar allegations in Union, clients can pursue narrower, issue-specific responses or broader comprehensive strategies that consider all consequences. A limited approach might target a single procedural concern or seek a prompt plea discussion to resolve one charge quickly. A comprehensive approach evaluates parallel civil risks, regulatory exposure, employment implications, and long-term reputational harm, and develops a multi-front plan. Choosing the right course depends on case complexity, available evidence, and client priorities. A thoughtful assessment helps ensure that short-term gains do not produce larger problems later on.
A limited approach may suffice when allegations revolve around a discrete procedural error or a narrow documentary discrepancy that can be resolved through correction or clarification. For example, if an investigation stems from an administrative reporting mistake or a single questionable transaction that can be documented and explained, targeted advocacy can resolve the matter without prolonged litigation. In Union, responding promptly with clear records and a concise legal argument may persuade prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges, especially when there is no pattern of wrongdoing and commercial records support an innocent explanation.
When authorities are in the early stages of an inquiry and evidence is preliminary or lacks corroboration, a narrowly focused response to protect rights and limit disclosure may be appropriate. This can include negotiating the scope of subpoenas or explaining discrepancies before they escalate. In Union, careful management of early contact with investigators may avoid escalating the inquiry into a full prosecution. A limited approach aims to close the matter quickly while preserving the option to take a more comprehensive route if new evidence emerges.
A comprehensive defense is advisable when an investigation involves multiple charges, interrelated transactions, or substantial documentary records that require detailed analysis. Such cases in Union may involve forensic accounting, multiple witnesses, or cross-jurisdictional elements that benefit from a coordinated strategy. A broad approach allows counsel to trace funds, identify exculpatory evidence across different sources, and address potential civil exposure concurrently. It also positions the client to pursue negotiated resolutions from an informed standpoint or to prepare for contested hearings when necessary.
When criminal allegations carry collateral consequences such as professional discipline, business dissolution, or civil liability, a comprehensive approach is important to protect broader interests. In Union these repercussions can threaten employment, business relationships, and financial security. A comprehensive plan addresses immediate criminal defense while anticipating and mitigating potential downstream impacts through negotiations, protective filings, or strategic disclosure. Taking an integrated view helps avoid short-term settlements that might resolve criminal exposure at the cost of long-term personal or professional harm.
A holistic defense provides a thorough review of all relevant evidence and consequences, increasing the chance of identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. In Union, this approach often reveals documentary gaps, inconsistent witness accounts, or legitimate business explanations that can be used to negotiate dismissals or reduced charges. It also ensures coordinated handling of civil and administrative matters, preventing unexpected collateral consequences. Clients gain from a strategic plan that considers both immediate case resolution and longer-term protection of reputation and financial interests.
Comprehensive defense also improves preparedness for trial if negotiations fail, since the same investigative work that supports plea discussions also builds a trial-ready case. For clients in Union County, having a thoroughly developed factual record and expert financial analysis can shift bargaining leverage and persuade prosecutors to seek resolution on more favorable terms. This approach provides clients with clearer choices, realistic assessments of risk, and a coordinated path forward whether the preferred outcome is dismissal, negotiated settlement, or litigation.
A comprehensive defense increases opportunities to identify and challenge improperly obtained evidence, inaccurate financial interpretations, or unreliable witness statements. In Union cases, investigators may rely on forensic accounting reports or third-party records that require careful scrutiny. By conducting a full review, counsel can locate inconsistencies, request clarifying records, and prepare effective motions to exclude prejudicial or unlawfully gathered material. This work can materially affect the prosecutor’s view of the case and may lead to reduced charges or dismissal without the need for trial.
Addressing the wide range of possible legal and practical effects of a white collar matter prevents surprises that could arise after a narrow resolution. For Union residents these surprises might include follow-up civil suits, regulatory actions, or employment termination. A comprehensive strategy anticipates such outcomes and plans for mitigation, including negotiation terms that limit admissions, preserve privacy where possible, and provide for non-criminal resolution of related disputes. This proactive stance helps protect clients’ long-term interests and provides clearer pathways to recovery after litigation.
When you learn of an investigation, immediately preserve all relevant documents, emails, and electronic records. Avoid deleting files or altering records, as such actions can create additional legal risk and complicate your defense. Make contemporaneous copies where possible and maintain a clear chain of custody for originals. In Union matters, investigators often request bank statements, contracts, and accounting files, so having organized records can speed response times and allow counsel to assess the situation quickly. Early organization helps identify friendly documentation and inconsistent entries that can support your position.
Prompt action can preserve defenses and reduce exposure. Early engagement of counsel allows for timely objections to subpoenas, preservation of privilege where applicable, and immediate steps to secure relevant evidence. In Union County, where local procedures and prosecutor practices influence case dynamics, quick representation helps avoid missed opportunities to negotiate a favorable outcome. Coming to the situation with a clear strategy built on a comprehensive review of records and potential claims gives clients a stronger position for resolving charges or managing collateral consequences.
White collar allegations can have consequences beyond criminal sentences, including loss of professional licenses, civil liability, and reputational harm. For business owners and professionals in Union, these secondary effects can threaten income and long-term stability. Legal representation that understands the interplay between criminal and civil processes helps create a defense that addresses immediate charges while aiming to reduce broader fallout. Consider representation early to preserve documents, assert privileges, and develop a response that balances short-term resolution with protection of longer-term interests and relationships.
Additionally, defense counsel provides strategic options that individuals may not be aware of, such as preemptive engagement with regulators, diversion programs where available, or negotiating terms that limit admissions and release from certain liabilities. In Union cases, these options may influence whether a matter becomes a public prosecution or is resolved quietly. Early legal counsel can also advise on employment considerations, contract obligations, and communication strategies to protect reputation and business operations while addressing the legal challenge.
Common triggers for white collar investigations include internal audits that reveal irregularities, whistleblower complaints, disputes with business partners, or anomalies detected by banks or insurers. In Union County, complaints from former employees or clients sometimes prompt prosecutors to open inquiries, and regulatory agencies may refer matters to criminal authorities. Other common circumstances include complex transactions that lack clear documentation, tax reporting discrepancies, and suspicious transfers. Recognizing these scenarios can prompt early action to assemble records, correct misunderstandings, and respond to authorities in a controlled manner.
Internal audits or employee whistleblowers often surface alleged irregularities that lead to criminal inquiries. When an employer uncovers missing funds, questionable invoices, or unauthorized transfers, those findings may be reported to law enforcement. Responding quickly with a careful internal review and legal guidance helps manage the process and avoid escalation. In Union, a measured response that includes transparent cooperation where appropriate and preservation of key documents can position a client more favorably during subsequent investigations.
Banks and financial institutions monitor for suspicious activity and may notify authorities when unusual transfers or account behavior is detected. Such notifications can trigger regulatory or criminal probes into potential fraud or money laundering. Individuals and businesses in Union should maintain clear records explaining legitimate sources of funds and be prepared to provide documentation promptly. Legal counsel can help structure responses and work with financial institutions to limit unnecessary escalation while protecting client rights and privacy.
Regulatory audits or tax examinations that uncover inconsistencies in filings can lead to criminal referrals when authorities believe wrongdoing occurred. In Union County, discrepancies in tax returns, grant reporting, or professional filings may prompt broader review. A response that organizes supporting documentation, explains accounting methods, and communicates proactively with auditors may prevent criminalization of what could be remediable errors. When criminal exposure is possible, coordinated defense work is necessary to address both the regulatory and criminal tracks effectively.
The Law Office of Edward Appel provides focused criminal defense services with attention to the unique dynamics of white collar matters. For clients in Union we prioritize prompt investigation, careful review of financial and electronic evidence, and strategic negotiation with prosecutors. The firm works to identify procedural protections, challenge inappropriate evidence collection, and present factual explanations that can reduce or avoid criminal penalties. Clear communication and realistic counsel guide clients through complex decisions at each stage of the process.
We understand that every case involves personal and business consequences beyond the courtroom, so our representation considers reputational and financial repercussions. We coordinate with accountants, forensic analysts, and other professionals as needed to develop a strong factual record. This integrated approach helps clients in Union County pursue favorable resolutions while protecting their long-term interests and minimizing public harm. Our goal is to help clients navigate investigations efficiently and effectively while preserving important rights and relationships.
Clients can expect personalized attention, timely updates, and direct communication throughout the matter. We handle subpoena responses, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare for hearings or trials when necessary. Our practice is built around practical solutions that reflect each client’s priorities, whether that means early resolution, avoidance of indictment, or rigorous defense at trial. For Union residents, having counsel who knows local procedures and prosecutorial tendencies can make the difference in securing a favorable outcome.
Our process begins with a confidential consultation to review allegations, relevant documents, and the scope of any investigation. We then advise on immediate steps for evidence preservation and communication protocols with investigators. After gathering records and interviewing witnesses, we analyze the prosecution’s theory, identify defenses, and explore resolution options. If negotiation is appropriate, we pursue the best possible terms; if not, we prepare a trial-ready case. Throughout, we keep clients informed and involved in decision-making with a focus on practical outcomes and long-term protection.
The first phase centers on assessing the situation and securing immediate protections. This includes advising clients on how to respond to investigators, preserving electronic and paper records, and identifying any privilege issues. In Union matters it may also require coordinating with employers or accountants to gather documentation quickly. Establishing a clear chain of custody and documenting the investigative timeline are early priorities because they shape subsequent evidence challenges and strategic choices for defense or negotiation.
We conduct a prompt review of the materials at hand to identify key transactions, potential exculpatory records, and gaps in the prosecution’s narrative. This review sorts records into categories that support defense themes and highlights documents that require forensic analysis. For Union cases, this stage often uncovers simple explanations for irregularities, such as accounting mispostings or approved transactions, which can be presented to investigators or used in plea discussions to avoid escalation.
At intake we evaluate whether communications or documents are protected by attorney-client privilege or work-product doctrines and take steps to assert those protections. Preserving privilege can prevent damaging materials from being used against a client and shapes how investigators may be approached. In Union County matters, establishing these protections early reduces the risk of unnecessary disclosures and helps counsel manage interactions with prosecutors and regulators more effectively throughout the investigation.
This phase involves deeper investigative work, including interviewing relevant witnesses, obtaining third-party records, and retaining forensic accountants when needed. The goal is to develop a complete factual picture and identify legal theories for defense or mitigation. In Union cases this can involve subpoena responses, bank reconciliation, and tracing funds across accounts. A thorough analysis supports motions to suppress, factual defenses, or persuasive negotiation positions with prosecutors aimed at reducing charges or securing favorable resolutions.
When financial complexity is high, we engage forensic accountants to trace funds, reconcile ledgers, and produce expert analyses that clarify transactions. This work can expose errors in the prosecution’s theory or demonstrate legitimate business explanations. In Union matters, timely forensic review can also reveal which records are most probative for defense and which inconsistencies can be explained by standard accounting practices rather than criminal intent.
We interview witnesses and potential declarants to gather statements, verify timelines, and identify corroborating evidence. These interviews help build a narrative that supports defense theories and may uncover information that weakens the prosecution’s case. Care is taken to document memories contemporaneously and to assess witness credibility. In Union cases, witness statements can often clear misunderstandings or show appropriate approvals that undermine allegations of wrongful conduct.
At this stage we pursue the best available resolution based on the evidence, client goals, and legal analysis. Options include negotiating a non-criminal disposition, seeking diversion where available, or litigating motions and preparing for trial. When litigation is necessary, every factual and legal issue identified during investigation is developed for court. For clients in Union, the choice between settlement and trial is informed by realistic risk assessment and the long-term implications of any admission or plea.
Negotiation focuses on minimizing criminal exposure and collateral consequences through plea discussions or agreements that limit penalties. We weigh the strength of the prosecution’s case, potential sentencing outcomes, and downstream effects like civil liability or professional discipline. In Union cases, strategic negotiation may secure terms that protect business interests and reduce public disclosure. Clients are advised on the full range of implications before any resolution is accepted.
If resolution is not viable, we prepare a comprehensive trial strategy grounded in the investigative record, forensic analysis, and witness preparation. Trial readiness includes filing pretrial motions, organizing exhibits, and developing themes that counter the prosecution’s narrative. In Union County courtrooms we aim to present the factual record in a clear, persuasive manner and to challenge any legal defects in the government’s case. Thorough preparation increases the likelihood of a favorable verdict or a better position for late-stage negotiations.
First, preserve all relevant documents and electronic records. Create copies of emails, financial statements, contracts, and any other materials that relate to the matter and avoid deleting or altering files. Next, refrain from making voluntary statements to investigators or discussing the matter on social media. Consult with counsel right away so you can understand your rights and obligations before responding. Early legal guidance helps limit disclosure and prevents inadvertent admissions that could be used later in court. After preservation and initial counsel contact, evaluate with your attorney whether to provide limited cooperation, invoke privilege, or negotiate the scope of document requests. Counsel will advise on handling subpoenas and how to respond to interview requests safely. Acting quickly also allows the attorney to begin assembling a defense, contacting potential witnesses, and retaining financial specialists if needed, all of which improve prospects for a favorable outcome in Union County.
Yes, some white collar matters may attract federal attention, particularly when they involve interstate transactions, federal agencies, or alleged violations of federal statutes. Federal involvement often brings more formalized investigative procedures, broader subpoena power, and different sentencing guidelines. In Union, local matters that cross state lines or implicate federal programs might be referred to federal authorities, so early assessment of jurisdictional exposure is important to determine whether state or federal defenses are necessary. Federal cases require familiarity with federal rules and prosecutorial practices, and the potential penalties can be more severe. If federal exposure is possible, counsel will evaluate the risk, coordinate defense efforts accordingly, and consider strategies such as negotiating with federal prosecutors, seeking pre-indictment resolutions where appropriate, or preparing vigorous defenses for grand jury proceedings and trial.
The length of investigations varies widely depending on complexity, the volume of records, and whether multiple jurisdictions are involved. Some inquiries conclude within weeks if documentation quickly clarifies the matter, while others can take months or longer when forensic accounting, subpoenas, and witness interviews are needed. In Union, timelines hinge on cooperation from banks and businesses, the thoroughness of document production, and whether prosecutors choose to present evidence to a grand jury. While timing is unpredictable, early attorney involvement can streamline the process by organizing records and responding efficiently to requests. Counsel can also engage with investigators to limit unnecessary delays and seek prompt resolution when appropriate, but clients should be prepared for an extended process in complex cases.
Grand jury rules differ from regular court proceedings, and witnesses may be called to provide testimony during an investigation. Whether you must testify depends on whether the grand jury issues a subpoena and on your constitutional privilege against self-incrimination. In most circumstances, you have the right to consult counsel before deciding whether to testify, and counsel can advise on the risks of answering questions without legal protection. In some situations it may be prudent to testify with counsel present or to assert the privilege when testimony could be self-incriminating. Decisions about grand jury testimony should be made in close consultation with an attorney who can evaluate the potential legal consequences and help chart the best course.
Protecting a business under investigation involves preserving records, controlling communication, and maintaining normal operations while limiting exposure. Document retention and careful internal review are essential to present a coherent factual record. Communicate with employees about confidentiality and direct them to legal counsel when appropriate to prevent inadvertent disclosures. In Union, proactive steps can include conducting an internal investigation, securing sensitive accounts, and consulting with counsel about how to respond to subpoenas or regulatory inquiries. Additionally, consider engaging financial advisors or forensic accountants to review disputed transactions and prepare supporting documentation. Counsel can also negotiate with authorities on behalf of the business, seek protective orders to limit public disclosure, and pursue resolutions that minimize business interruption and reputational harm while addressing the underlying allegations.
Common defenses in fraud and embezzlement cases include lack of intent to defraud, authorization for the disputed transactions, mistake or accounting error, and insufficient evidence linking the accused to the wrongful act. Showing that transactions had legitimate business purposes, that approvals were in place, or that recordkeeping errors explain apparent discrepancies can undercut the prosecution’s narrative. In Union matters, careful review of company policies and approval chains often yields defensible explanations for contested entries. Other defenses may involve challenging the reliability of financial analyses, disputing witness credibility, or asserting that the statute of limitations has expired. Counsel may also pursue procedural motions if evidence was obtained unlawfully. The best defense depends on the specific facts and documentation in each case and must be developed through thorough investigation.
Accounting errors alone do not always result in criminal charges, but significant or repeated discrepancies can prompt criminal investigation, especially if prosecutors believe there was intent to conceal. If an alleged crime is based on misposted entries or reconciliations that are explained by standard accounting practices, a strong factual showing of error and corrective action can lead to dismissal or noncriminal resolution. In Union, presenting coherent accounting explanations and supporting records early can persuade authorities that criminal charges are unwarranted. However, when mistakes are paired with suspicious behavior or concealment, prosecutors may pursue charges. That is why immediate documentation and the use of independent accountants to validate legitimate transactions can be crucial to demonstrating that discrepancies were noncriminal in nature and to avoiding escalation into criminal prosecution.
Civil and criminal proceedings frequently run in parallel, and outcomes in one forum can influence the other. A criminal plea or judgment may be used as evidence in a civil suit, and civil discovery can uncover material relevant to a criminal prosecution. For clients in Union, coordinating defense strategies across both tracks is important to avoid admissions or settlements that aggravate criminal exposure. Counsel should evaluate whether civil matters should be stayed, consolidated, or handled in a manner that protects criminal defenses. Resolving civil claims separately from criminal charges may be advisable in some cases, while in others a consolidated strategy yields better overall outcomes. Legal representation that plans for both tracks can negotiate resolutions that limit liability while safeguarding criminal defenses, helping clients navigate complex intersections between civil and criminal law.
Noncriminal resolutions can include negotiated outcomes with prosecutors such as diversion programs, pretrial intervention, or agreements that avoid formal convictions in exchange for restitution, compliance measures, or community service. In some cases, prosecutors may accept evidence of remediation and corrective action as part of a disposition that spares a client from a criminal record. For Union residents, these alternatives may be appropriate when misconduct was isolated, there was cooperation, and the public interest is served by rehabilitation rather than punishment. Another option may include resolving related civil disputes through settlement while addressing any criminal inquiries separately. The availability of noncriminal resolutions depends on the facts of the case, the strength of the evidence, and the discretion of the prosecutor, so early negotiation and presentation of mitigating facts are important to pursue these pathways.
To arrange a consultation with the Law Office of Edward Appel, contact the firm by phone at 856-856-2373 or visit the website to request an appointment. During the initial confidential consultation we will review the basic facts of your case, advise on immediate steps to preserve evidence, and explain the firm’s approach to similar matters in Union. The goal of the meeting is to provide clear next steps and an honest assessment of potential options tailored to your circumstances. Bring any relevant documents, including correspondence, financial statements, subpoenas, or notices, to the consultation so counsel can evaluate the key issues efficiently. Early contact allows the firm to act promptly to protect your rights, manage communications with investigators, and begin gathering records needed to develop an effective defense strategy in Union County.