If you were injured in Union, New Jersey, you deserve clear guidance and steady support. The Law Office of Edward Appel helps people after car crashes, falls, dog bites, and other injuries that disrupt work, health, and family routines. From Route 22 collisions to store accidents along Morris Avenue, our goal is to protect your rights, address medical bills, and communicate with insurers so you can focus on recovery. We explain your options in plain language, handle the paperwork, and position your claim for fair compensation. When questions pile up, we bring structure and direction to the claims process so you can make confident choices.
Every injury is different, and the path to recovery depends on careful documentation, timelines, and a strategic approach to insurance negotiations. Our Union-focused team listens first, then tailors a plan that fits your injuries, treatment needs, and financial pressures. We coordinate with healthcare providers, gather evidence, and track deadlines under New Jersey law to safeguard your case. Whether you were rear-ended, hurt on unsafe property, or struck as a pedestrian, we help identify responsible parties and pursue all available coverage. We pride ourselves on responsive communication and clear next steps, so you always know what’s happening and why it matters.
Getting legal help early can protect critical evidence and preserve your right to compensation under New Jersey’s deadlines. Photos fade, surveillance is overwritten, and witnesses move; a timely investigation captures details that strengthen your claim. Professional guidance helps you avoid insurance pitfalls, such as recorded statements that minimize injuries or early offers that don’t reflect future medical needs. We coordinate billing, verify benefits, and present your damages in a clear, supported manner. With a steady advocate handling negotiations, you can focus on treatment, knowing your claim is being built methodically for the best attainable outcome.
The Law Office of Edward Appel is a New Jersey firm serving Union and Union County in personal injury, criminal defense, and DUI matters. In injury cases, we emphasize careful case building: documenting treatment, calculating lost wages, and coordinating with providers to support your claim. We understand the local courts, insurers, and common collision patterns across Union’s busy corridors. Our approach is practical and client-centered, focused on clear communication, organized records, and decisive action when deadlines approach. From the first call to resolution, we aim to keep you informed and confident while we work to secure fair compensation.
Personal injury law allows injured people to pursue compensation when harmed by someone else’s carelessness or unsafe conditions. In Union, this often includes motor vehicle crashes, slip and falls, unsafe premises, and pedestrian incidents. Compensation can cover medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses tied to the incident. The process usually involves medical treatment, evidence gathering, and negotiations with insurers. Strong claims are built on timely documentation: photos, witness information, incident reports, and consistent medical records. Early guidance helps align treatment and paperwork so your injuries and resulting damages are accurately presented and supported.
New Jersey follows a comparative negligence system, which means your recovery can be reduced if you share fault, and barred if your fault exceeds 50 percent. The general statute of limitations for most injury claims is two years from the incident, though specific facts may affect deadlines. Insurance companies often act quickly, so it helps to direct communications through your attorney to avoid statements that may be used to minimize your injuries. By organizing evidence, verifying coverage, and tracking all deadlines, we help protect your rights while you focus on your health and recovery.
A personal injury claim arises when a person is harmed by another’s negligence—failing to act with reasonable care. To establish liability, we show duty, breach, causation, and damages. In practice, that might mean proving a driver failed to yield, a business ignored a wet floor, or a property owner neglected lighting and security. Evidence includes medical records, photos, videos, witness statements, and repair estimates. We also verify insurance policies and identify all potential coverage, including underinsured motorist benefits. By connecting conduct to injuries and losses, we present a full picture of what happened and why compensation is warranted.
Most claims move through several stages: consultation and case evaluation, investigation and evidence preservation, medical treatment and documentation, demand preparation, and negotiation. If settlement is not fair, litigation may follow, which includes filing a complaint, discovery, and potentially trial or mediation. Throughout, we communicate with insurers, coordinate medical billing, and itemize damages such as lost wages and future care needs. Our focus is to keep your case organized and moving, ensure deadlines are met, and position your claim for the strongest possible resolution—whether that’s a negotiated settlement or the filing of a lawsuit in the appropriate court.
Understanding common terms makes the process more manageable. You may hear “negligence,” which addresses fault; “damages,” which are your losses; and “comparative negligence,” which can reduce recovery based on shared fault. The “statute of limitations” sets the time to file a claim, and “UM/UIM” refers to uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage that may apply after a crash. These terms shape strategy and affect negotiations, billing, and case timelines. We explain each step in plain language so you understand how the law fits your situation and what actions can help strengthen your case for a fair resolution.
Negligence is the failure to use reasonable care under the circumstances, resulting in harm to another person. In personal injury cases, it can involve distracted driving, unsafe property maintenance, or ignoring safety rules. To prove negligence, we show the other party owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries and losses. Evidence may include traffic camera footage, incident reports, and medical documentation linking the event to your condition. Establishing negligence is central to liability, as it provides the legal basis to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Damages are the losses you suffered because of the incident. They may include medical bills, future treatment costs, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, and pain and suffering. Property damage can be part of a motor vehicle claim. Thoroughly documenting damages is essential. We collect medical records, wage statements, and expert opinions when needed to quantify the full impact of the injury. This documentation helps ensure settlement offers reflect both immediate and long-term needs. The stronger and more organized your damages evidence, the better positioned your claim is for fair negotiations or, if necessary, litigation.
Comparative negligence is a rule that allocates fault among the parties involved in an incident. In New Jersey, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault, and you cannot recover if you are more than 50 percent responsible. Insurers often raise shared fault to limit payouts. We address these arguments by investigating the scene, interviewing witnesses, and securing records to clarify what truly happened. Understanding comparative negligence helps set expectations and informs strategy during settlement talks, ensuring your rights are protected while presenting the facts that support your version of events.
The statute of limitations is the legal deadline to file a lawsuit. For many New Jersey personal injury claims, this is generally two years from the date of injury, though certain claims or circumstances can alter this timeframe. Missing the deadline can bar recovery entirely. Early case evaluation helps identify the correct timeline and ensures prompt evidence preservation. We track all relevant dates, including notice requirements that may apply to public entities. Acting quickly preserves rights, reduces the risk of missing key evidence, and supports a well-documented claim that is ready for negotiations or court if needed.
Some people consider handling their claim alone or seeking limited assistance for discrete tasks. Others prefer comprehensive representation that manages evidence, billing, negotiations, and, if needed, litigation. The right fit depends on injury severity, complexity, and time demands. Minor injuries and straightforward liability may be manageable with brief guidance. More serious injuries, disputed fault, or multiple insurers often benefit from a coordinated strategy. We help you understand what each approach involves, set expectations for timelines and costs, and choose the level of support that aligns with your goals, health needs, and family obligations.
If your injuries are minor, quickly resolved, and well-documented, a limited approach might be reasonable. This can include obtaining the police report, gathering clear photos, securing a few medical records, and presenting a short demand to the insurer. Where liability is undisputed and treatment is brief, the claim may be resolved without extensive advocacy. We can provide targeted guidance on common pitfalls, help you organize records, and outline steps to present a coherent claim. Even with limited help, it’s important to watch deadlines, preserve proof, and avoid statements that could be misunderstood or used to minimize your injuries.
When an incident causes minimal vehicle damage and you don’t require ongoing medical care, focused assistance may be enough. You might only need help requesting records, confirming insurance coverage, and drafting a concise demand letter. In these cases, the claim’s value is typically modest and turns on clear documentation rather than complex liability disputes. We can advise on presenting bills, confirming provider balances, and avoiding release forms that close future claims prematurely. If new symptoms develop or the insurer disputes causation, you can pivot to a more comprehensive approach to protect your interests.
Cases involving fractures, surgery, lengthy therapy, or disputed fault call for coordinated representation. Insurers often challenge causation, preexisting conditions, or lost wage claims in serious injury matters. We respond by assembling complete medical histories, obtaining expert opinions when appropriate, and developing a timeline that connects the event to your condition. Where fault is contested, we gather witness statements, video footage, and, if needed, accident reconstruction evidence. Comprehensive representation keeps the case organized, meets court or insurance deadlines, and ensures your damages are fully presented before considering settlement or, if necessary, filing suit.
Multi-vehicle collisions, commercial defendants, or cases involving rideshare or delivery companies can introduce layered insurance and shifting responsibility. Coordinating coverage, tendering claims, and preserving black-box or telematics data requires a structured approach. We identify all policies, confirm limits, and address subrogation from health insurers or benefit plans. When liability overlaps, we analyze comparative fault and contribution to position your claim strategically. This level of complexity benefits from consistent oversight, detailed communication, and readiness to litigate if negotiations stall. Our goal is to align evidence, coverage, and damages to support a full and fair outcome.
A comprehensive strategy places evidence, treatment, and negotiations under one coordinated plan. We ensure medical records reflect your symptoms and functional limits, track lost income with employer verification, and capture future care costs with provider input. Early investigation preserves proof that can fade, while organized demand packages communicate your story persuasively. By anticipating insurer arguments and addressing them proactively, we reduce delays and strengthen settlement discussions. The result is a clear, well-supported claim that reflects the full scope of your losses and positions you for a resolution that truly accounts for your needs.
Comprehensive representation also reduces stress. Instead of juggling paperwork and calls, you receive regular updates and defined next steps. We handle insurer contacts, coordinate medical billing, and monitor all deadlines. If litigation becomes necessary, your case is already documented and ready to transition to court. This continuity saves time, minimizes risk, and presents a consistent narrative from the first report to resolution. With every element working together—liability, damages, and coverage—you can focus on recovery while we focus on presenting a complete, carefully documented claim on your behalf.
Thorough documentation is the backbone of a strong claim. We gather medical records that detail diagnoses and functional limits, obtain wage statements and letters from employers, and secure photos, video, and witness accounts to show what happened. We also address gaps in treatment, clarify prior conditions, and connect each loss to the incident. Presenting a clear, well-supported picture of your damages helps insurers understand the real impact on your life. With stronger evidence, negotiations become more productive, and your case is positioned for better results—whether at the settlement table or, if needed, in litigation.
When your claim is carefully built and supported, settlement talks start from a position of strength. Insurers recognize organized files, complete medical narratives, and well-calculated damages. We anticipate defenses, address them in the demand, and set clear expectations for resolution. If settlement falls short, your matter is already prepared for the next step—filing suit within New Jersey’s deadlines. This readiness saves time and can prompt more serious negotiations. Throughout, we keep you informed with realistic timelines and options so you can decide the best path for your health, finances, and peace of mind.
Right after an incident, capture photos of the scene, vehicles, weather, and visible injuries. Collect names and contact details for witnesses, and request any available incident or police reports. Keep a journal of symptoms, missed work, and how daily activities change during recovery. Consistency matters: follow medical advice, attend appointments, and save all bills and receipts. If you notice cameras, note their locations so footage can be requested quickly. Early, organized documentation prevents gaps that insurers can use to downplay your injuries, while giving your attorney a strong foundation for negotiations.
Insurance adjusters may request recorded statements or broad medical authorizations early on. Speak with an attorney before agreeing. Statements can be used to minimize injuries or shift blame, and broad authorizations may pull in unrelated history. Instead, route communications through your lawyer, who can provide needed information without compromising your claim. Do not post about the incident or recovery on social media, as posts can be taken out of context. Thoughtful communication keeps your claim aligned with the evidence, avoids common pitfalls, and preserves your negotiating leverage as your case develops.
After an injury, you may face medical bills, missed paychecks, vehicle repairs, and calls from multiple insurers. A Union-focused attorney shoulders these burdens, organizes records, and tracks deadlines under New Jersey law. We evaluate coverage, including uninsured and underinsured motorist benefits, and coordinate with healthcare providers to address balances. Our approach is practical and responsive, aimed at building a well-documented claim and guiding negotiations toward fair compensation. With steady support and clear updates, you can direct your energy toward recovery while we protect your rights and keep your case moving forward.
Insurance companies are skilled at limiting payouts, often by questioning causation, downplaying symptoms, or pushing early settlements. We counter these tactics with prepared evidence, organized demand packages, and a detailed presentation of your losses. If settlement talks stall, we discuss litigation options and ensure suit is filed on time. Throughout, we explain your choices in plain language, so you can make informed decisions at each stage. Our goal is to present your strongest case, account for future needs, and reduce the stress and uncertainty that often follows a serious injury in Union.
We frequently help people hurt in motor vehicle collisions along Route 22 and local roadways, falls at stores or apartment complexes, and pedestrian incidents near busy intersections. Workplace injuries, unsafe property conditions, and dog bites also arise. Each situation presents unique challenges, from identifying the proper defendants to coordinating benefits and addressing comparative negligence claims. We tailor our approach to the facts of your incident, preserving evidence and documenting your injuries from day one. Whatever the cause, we work to understand how the event changed your health, work, and home life so your claim reflects the full impact.
Traffic collisions can cause whiplash, fractures, concussions, and other serious injuries. We gather police reports, scene photos, dash or traffic camera footage, and repair estimates to establish liability and damages. Insurance coverage can include personal injury protection, bodily injury liability, and UM/UIM benefits. We work with your providers to document treatment and future care needs, and with employers to verify lost income. If fault is disputed, we secure witness statements and analyze speed, visibility, and roadway design. Our goal is to present a clear narrative backed by evidence, so insurers fully understand the impact on your life.
Falls in stores, parking lots, and apartment buildings often involve wet floors, debris, poor lighting, or uneven surfaces. We investigate property maintenance and inspection practices, incident logs, and surveillance footage to determine how long a hazard existed and whether it should have been fixed. Prompt photos and witness information are especially helpful. Medical records connecting the fall to your injuries support a fair recovery for treatment, pain, and lost time from work. We also examine insurance coverage for the property owner or manager to ensure all potential sources of compensation are explored.
Pedestrians and cyclists are vulnerable to serious harm from turning vehicles, distracted driving, or poor visibility. We evaluate right-of-way issues, signage, lighting, and vehicle speed to establish fault. Evidence may include nearby camera footage, event data from vehicles, and road design considerations. Medical documentation is essential, especially for head, neck, and orthopedic injuries that can evolve over time. We also look at uninsured and underinsured coverage that might apply, even if the at-fault driver has limited insurance. Our approach aims to secure medical care coordination and fair compensation for the full scope of your losses.
We bring a steady, local approach to Union injury claims. Our process starts with listening: understanding your injuries, treatment goals, and financial concerns. Then we build a tailored plan—preserving evidence, organizing records, and laying out timelines under New Jersey law. You will know what to expect and when, including how we calculate damages and respond to insurer arguments. We focus on practical solutions that support your recovery while protecting your rights. From day one, our priority is your peace of mind and a claim strategy aligned with your health and family needs.
Communication is central to our practice. We return calls, explain developments, and provide regular case updates so you never feel in the dark. When decisions arise—settlement, continued negotiations, or litigation—we break down the pros and cons in plain language. We coordinate with medical providers, confirm insurance details, and help with wage verification and lien issues. Our organized approach keeps your case on track and reduces the stress that often follows a serious injury. You’ll have a clear roadmap and a committed advocate at every stage.
Results come from preparation. We gather the right proof, anticipate defenses, and present your claim in a comprehensive demand package. If negotiations stall, we are ready to file suit within the applicable deadlines. Throughout, we remain focused on achieving a fair outcome that reflects both immediate and future needs. When you choose the Law Office of Edward Appel, you gain a team that values your time, listens closely, and works diligently to help you move forward after an injury in Union.
Our process is designed to reduce stress and maximize organization. We start with a detailed consultation, then gather evidence and medical records while you focus on treatment. We identify all insurance coverage, address billing questions, and prepare a comprehensive demand that tells your story with clarity and support. If settlement isn’t fair, we discuss litigation and file within the deadlines. You’ll receive regular updates and practical guidance at each step. The goal is consistent progress, informed decisions, and a resolution that reflects the true impact of your injuries and losses.
We begin by listening to your account, reviewing available records, and outlining your options. You’ll learn how New Jersey’s laws and timelines apply to your situation, what evidence we need, and what to expect next. We help you start documenting injuries and expenses and explain how to handle insurance calls. This early planning sets the stage for organized treatment records, clear communication, and strong negotiations later. By the end of the evaluation, you will have a roadmap and practical steps to protect your claim while you focus on recovery.
We collect police or incident reports, photos, witness statements, and available video, and we evaluate roadway design or property maintenance issues where relevant. We also confirm insurance coverage and identify all potentially responsible parties. This early liability analysis helps anticipate defenses and guides what additional evidence to secure. When necessary, we request preservation of evidence letters to safeguard surveillance footage or vehicle data. With a solid liability foundation, we can present a clear narrative that explains what happened, why it happened, and how it caused your injuries.
We coordinate with your providers to obtain records and bills, confirm diagnoses, and document treatment plans. If you miss work, we secure employer verification for lost wages. We also track out-of-pocket costs and discuss future care needs. This assessment translates your medical journey into documented damages supported by objective records. Accurate, complete damages evidence strengthens settlement discussions and prepares your case for litigation if needed. Throughout, we encourage consistent treatment and communication with your providers so your records reflect the full impact of the injuries on daily life and work.
Once treatment is underway or approaching completion, we prepare a demand package that includes liability evidence, medical records, bills, and a clear damages analysis. We present your story in a structured way that addresses expected defenses and highlights the real-world effects on your life. During negotiations, we keep you informed of every offer and counter, explain evaluation ranges, and discuss strategy. If settlement aligns with your goals, we finalize promptly. If not, we prepare for litigation, ensuring all deadlines are met and your claim remains fully documented and ready for court.
We refine the evidence, reconcile medical billing, and organize records to avoid gaps. The demand package includes a detailed narrative, photo exhibits, wage proofs, and a damages summary. We address liability challenges and comparative negligence arguments upfront. This comprehensive presentation helps insurers evaluate your claim fully and sets the tone for meaningful negotiations. The more complete and coherent the package, the better the chance of achieving a fair settlement without unnecessary delays or litigation.
We communicate directly with insurers, respond to information requests, and push for timely evaluations. You receive regular updates, clear explanations of offers, and guidance on whether to accept, continue negotiating, or move toward litigation. We consider medical progress, financial needs, and trial risks to help you make informed choices. Our goal is to drive a fair resolution while keeping you in control of the decisions that affect your future.
If a fair settlement is reached, we finalize releases, confirm lien amounts, and coordinate a smooth payout. If litigation is necessary, we file suit within deadlines and guide you through discovery, depositions, and potential mediation or trial. Throughout, we maintain a clear timeline, prepare you for each step, and continue to build the evidence that supports your case. Whether resolution comes at the negotiating table or in court, our approach remains the same: organized, proactive, and focused on presenting your strongest claim.
We review settlement terms line by line, explain releases, and confirm the impact on medical balances or insurance liens. Our team coordinates final billing, verifies net proceeds, and ensures funds are disbursed promptly. You will understand the numbers, the documents you are signing, and what to expect after resolution. This careful process avoids surprises and brings closure with clarity and confidence.
When litigation is necessary, we file the complaint, serve defendants, and manage discovery. You will be prepared for depositions, independent medical exams, and court appearances. We continue to evaluate settlement options while positioning the case for trial if needed. Clear communication and thorough preparation help you navigate the process with confidence, ensuring your story is told effectively at every milestone.
For many New Jersey personal injury cases, the general statute of limitations is two years from the date of injury. Some claims have different deadlines, particularly those involving public entities, minors, or certain medical issues. Missing the filing deadline can bar recovery entirely, so it’s important to evaluate your case early and track all time limits carefully. We review your facts at the start and identify any special notice requirements or exceptions that could affect your timeline. In addition to lawsuit deadlines, evidence has a practical shelf life. Surveillance can be overwritten, vehicles repaired, and witnesses harder to locate. Early action preserves proof and helps build a stronger claim. If you’re unsure about timing, contact us promptly. We can assess your situation, explain applicable deadlines in plain language, and map out next steps to protect your rights while you focus on treatment and recovery.
Right after an accident, prioritize safety and medical care. Call 911 if needed, get a police or incident report, and take photos of the scene, vehicles, hazards, and your injuries. Gather names and contact information for witnesses and note any cameras in the area. Seek medical attention promptly and report all symptoms, even if they seem minor at first. Save bills and receipts. Avoid discussing fault at the scene beyond the necessary exchange of information. Notify your insurance company, but speak with an attorney before giving recorded statements to any insurer. Do not sign broad medical authorizations without legal guidance. Keep a journal documenting pain levels, missed work, and limitations on daily activities. Contact our office as soon as possible so we can preserve evidence, coordinate records, and guide communications with insurers. Early organization supports a clearer claim and stronger negotiation position later on.
Some minor, well-documented claims may be handled with limited assistance, especially if injuries resolve quickly and liability is undisputed. We can provide targeted guidance on gathering records, drafting a concise demand, and avoiding common pitfalls. If your injuries are truly minor and your expenses are small, this approach can be efficient and cost-conscious. However, if symptoms persist, fault is disputed, or multiple insurers are involved, comprehensive representation is often beneficial. We organize medical documentation, calculate damages, and anticipate defenses to present your strongest claim. Even in smaller matters, a brief consultation can help you avoid missteps that delay or reduce recovery. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each approach so you choose the support that matches your needs.
Most personal injury cases are handled on a contingency fee, meaning you pay no upfront attorney’s fee. The fee is a percentage of the recovery and is paid at the conclusion of the case, along with reimbursement of case expenses advanced by the firm. We explain the fee structure, potential costs, and how liens or medical balances are handled before you sign anything. Transparency is important. We review the retainer agreement with you, answer questions, and provide updates about expenses as the case progresses. At settlement, we present a detailed distribution statement showing gross recovery, fees, costs, lien payments, and your net proceeds. Our goal is clarity at every step so you understand precisely how fees and expenses are calculated.
New Jersey’s comparative negligence rule allows you to recover damages as long as you are not more than 50 percent at fault. Your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Insurance companies often assert shared fault to reduce payouts, so we investigate thoroughly to clarify what truly happened. Evidence such as photos, witness statements, and video can be key to establishing accurate fault allocation. We also examine roadway design, lighting, signage, and property maintenance where relevant. By presenting a clear liability narrative, we work to minimize unfair fault assignments and protect the value of your claim. Even if you think you may share some responsibility, a consultation can help you understand how the rule applies and what evidence can strengthen your case.
Case value depends on liability, the nature and duration of your injuries, medical treatment and prognosis, lost income, and how the incident affects your daily life. Objective proof is essential: medical records, imaging, provider notes, and wage verification help quantify losses. We also consider future care needs and any impact on work or activities you enjoyed before the injury. Insurers evaluate many factors, including comparative fault and preexisting conditions. We address these issues in the demand package with organized records and a clear damages narrative. While no attorney can promise a specific outcome, careful documentation and a well-presented claim can lead to more productive negotiations and a fairer resolution. We’ll provide a reasoned evaluation once the evidence is assembled.
Timelines vary. Straightforward claims with short treatment periods can resolve in a few months once records are collected and a demand is submitted. Cases with complex medical issues, disputed liability, or multiple insurers take longer, particularly if litigation becomes necessary. We aim to move your case efficiently without rushing before we have the documentation needed for fair evaluation. During your case, we provide regular updates and realistic timeframes. Settlement is possible throughout, including during litigation, and many matters resolve before trial. Our focus is steady progress, complete documentation, and informed decision-making at each stage so you understand the path to resolution and what factors may affect timing.
Speak with an attorney before giving a recorded statement. Adjusters may ask leading questions or focus on details that minimize your injuries or shift blame. You are not required to provide a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. When needed, we provide information in writing or participate in calls to protect your interests. Avoid signing broad medical authorizations that allow access to unrelated history. We limit disclosures to what is necessary to evaluate your claim. Clear, careful communication prevents misunderstandings and preserves your negotiating leverage. If you’ve already provided a statement, let us know so we can address any issues and guide next steps.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or has low limits, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may apply. We review your policy, confirm limits, and coordinate claims to maximize available coverage. These claims require careful handling to meet policy conditions while protecting your rights against both the at-fault party and your insurer. We also explore other potential coverage sources, including employer or commercial policies, and address medical liens from health insurers or benefit plans. By identifying all coverage early and documenting damages thoroughly, we help position your claim for a fair recovery even when the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance.
Bring any police or incident reports, photos, videos, and witness information. Provide medical records, bills, discharge instructions, prescriptions, and a list of providers you’ve seen since the incident. Pay stubs or employer letters help document lost wages. If you have health insurance cards or claim correspondence, bring those as well. A short timeline of events—injury, treatment, time off work—can be very helpful. If you don’t have everything yet, that’s okay. We can help request records and organize the file. The goal of the consultation is to understand your situation, explain your options, and outline immediate next steps. We’ll identify key evidence to secure right away and create a plan to build the claim while you focus on recovery.