Your safety and health should come first. Seek medical attention promptly, report the incident to law enforcement if appropriate, and document the scene with photos, videos, and witness information. Avoid statements about your injuries, fault, and other aspects of the incident until the situation is fully understood; and consult an attorney to assess your legal options.
Not every claim legally requires a lawyer. However, injury cases often involve complex liability issues, deadlines, damage calculations, negotiation tactics, and settlement strategies. An experienced attorney can evaluate the strength of the claim, protect your rights, and help pursue the compensation for all damages available under California law.
It is generally advisable to be cautious. Insurance representatives may request statements or information that can later negatively affect your claim (e.g., liability issues, extent of injuries, compensation amounts, etc.). Many people therefore prefer legal guidance or representation before communicating with insurers or opposing parties.
You can request a consultation by calling our office or quickly submitting a contact form above. We will respond as soon as possible to arrange a convenient time to discuss your situation.
No and no. You will not pay any consultation fees. The consultation is simply an opportunity to discuss your situation, ask questions, and learn about your legal options. You are under no obligation or pressure to hire our office afterward.
Absolutely. Information shared with our office during a consultation is treated with strict confidentiality in accordance with professional ethical standards – even if you ultimately choose not to retain our office.
After reviewing the facts, we determine whether the matter falls within our practice, let you know whether your case appears suitable for legal representation, and if needed, explain the next steps and legal options that may be available based on the circumstances.
If you choose to proceed, a written representation agreement will be signed and we will begin protecting your interests immediately, including collecting evidence, handling communications, and properly developing your case.
Most cases typically involve gathering evidence and medical documentation, evaluating damages, negotiating with insurers, resolving the case, and distributing settlement funds.
Many personal injury claims resolve through negotiated settlements. However, if a fair resolution cannot be reached, filing a lawsuit and pursuing the matter in court may become necessary. Note that litigation may start only upon your consent and approval.
In many situations, the statute of limitations for personal injury suits in California is typically 2 years from the date of injury, though shorter deadlines may apply in certain cases (e.g., claims involving government entities often require a claim to be filed within 6 months). To understand the deadlines applying to your specific case, you should consult a licensed attorney.
Medical treatment is typically paid through health insurance, medical liens, medical payments coverage (MedPay) under an auto insurance, or other available sources depending on the circumstances. Those expenses may later become part of the damages claimed from the responsible parties.
Some medical providers agree to treat patients on a medical lien basis, meaning payment is deferred and addressed from a future recovery if the case is successful.
Our office handles personal injury matters on a contingency basis, meaning attorney fees are calculated as a percentage of the compensation recovered in the case for the client. Contingency attorney fees are earned after compensation is recovered.
Depending on the circumstances, recoverable damages may include economic damages (such as medical expenses, lost income, lost or reduced earning capacity, property damage, out-of-pocket expenses and other costs), non-economic losses (such as pain, suffering, emotional injuries, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of consortium, society, support, or companionship), and other legally recognized losses caused by the injury.
