We offer free consultations for personal injury cases. During the consultation, we’ll review your case, answer your questions, and explain how our fee structure works — typically on a contingency basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

The responsibility for paying your medical bills ultimately falls on the auto insurance company for the at-fault party. In the meantime, your bills may be paid through your health insurance, medical payments (MedPay) coverage, or on a lien basis with certain providers. As your attorneys, we work to recover those costs from the liable party’s insurance company as part of your settlement.

The responsibility for paying your medical bills ultimately falls on the auto insurance company for the at-fault party. In the meantime, your bills may be paid through your health insurance, medical payments (MedPay) coverage, or on a lien basis with certain providers. As your attorneys, we work to recover those costs from the liable party’s insurance company as part of your settlement.

Yes, especially if there are injuries, property damage, or disputed liability. Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts — we advocate for your full compensation, handle negotiations, and protect your rights throughout the process.

If the other driver is clearly at fault, their insurance company is responsible for covering the cost of your comparable rental vehicle during the time your car is being repaired or until it’s deemed a total loss. However, many carriers won’t approve the rental until they complete liability acceptance, which may take a few days. If you have rental coverage under your own policy, we may recommend using it first and seeking reimbursement from the at-fault carrier. Our office can assist in coordinating this process.

Yes. An attorney will handle your case starting with the initial consultation and continuing all the way through settlement or litigation. Unlike large law firms where clients are often passed off to case managers, our attorneys are in control of every aspect of your case and are available to answer your questions at any stage.

A deposition is a formal interview where a party or witness gives sworn testimony before trial. It’s part of the discovery process and can be used later in court. We will prepare you thoroughly before your deposition.

Litigation refers to the legal process of resolving disputes through the court system. In a personal injury case, this typically begins with filing a complaint and proceeds through discovery, motions, and possibly trial.

A trust allows your assets to transfer directly to your beneficiaries without court involvement. A will is a directive to the probate court. Trusts generally provide more privacy, speed, and flexibility.

Yes — even simple estate plans can benefit from attorney guidance. We ensure documents are properly drafted, legally compliant, and tailored to your family’s needs. Errors in online forms can lead to expensive probate issues down the line.

The California Supreme Court held that a plaintiff cannot recover the full “billed” amount of medical expenses if those charges were never actually paid. Instead, you’re limited to recovering the amount actually paid or owed — often a much lower, negotiated rate between your health insurer
and the provider.

This ruling dramatically changed how damages are calculated in California. Before Howell, attorneys could demand the gross amount billed, even if health insurance significantly reduced it.

Now, only the “Howell-adjusted” amount — what the provider actually accepts as payment — is considered evidence of economic damages. For clients, this means a more accurate representation of true out-of-pocket costs, but it also gives insurance companies leverage to undervalue claims. At our office, we fight to ensure that your pain and suffering and future medical care are fully accounted for — not just the numbers
on a bill.

In California, this process is governed by the Common Fund Doctrine and Civil Code §3040,
which limit how much a health plan can recover — especially if your attorney did the work to secure the settlement. At our office, we regularly negotiate health insurance liens down using these doctrines, ensuring you receive the largest net recovery possible.

Not every lien is enforceable. ERISA plans, Medi-Cal, Medicare, and private insurers all have different rules. We review each one, challenge overreaching claims, and work to resolve liens efficiently so they don’t delay your payment.

New Minimum Liability Limits (Effective January 1, 2025):

• Bodily Injury or Death: $30,000 per person
• Bodily Injury or Death: $60,000 per accident
• Property Damage: $15,000 per accident

These limits, commonly referred to as 30/60/15, replace the previous 15/30/5 minimums.

Future Increase Scheduled for 2035:
The law also includes a provision for another increase in 2035, raising the minimum limits to:

• Bodily Injury or Death: $50,000 per person
• Bodily Injury or Death: $100,000 per accident
• Property Damage: $25,000 per accident

This adjustment aims to ensure that insurance policies provide adequate financial protection for those injured in car accidents and for property damage.

Implications for Drivers:
Policy Updates: Existing policies with lower limits will automatically adjust to meet the new requirements upon renewal after January 1, 2025.

Premium Changes: While premiums may increase due to higher coverage limits, the enhanced protection can prevent significant out-of-pocket expenses in the event of an accident.

Coverage Adequacy: Drivers should review their policies to ensure they have sufficient
coverage, especially considering the rising costs of medical care and vehicle repairs

Recommendations: Consider Higher Coverage: While the new minimums offer better protection, they may still fall short in severe accidents. Evaluating higher coverage limits can provide additional financial security.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Given the potential for accidents involving drivers without adequate insurance, adding this coverage can offer crucial protection.

Consult with Professionals: Discussing your insurance needs with an attorney or insurance agent can help tailor a policy that best suits your circumstances. Understanding these changes is essential for all California drivers to ensure compliance and adequate protection on the road.