Frequently Asked Questions
General answers to the questions we hear most. These are educational, not legal advice for your specific situation — a free consultation is the right place for that.
What if I was partially at fault for my accident?
California follows a "pure comparative negligence" rule, established in Li v. Yellow Cab Co. You can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault — even 50%, 70%, or more — your award is simply reduced by your own percentage of fault. For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but found 30% at fault, you’d receive $70,000. There’s no cutoff point that bars recovery entirely, unlike some other states.
View this answer on its own page →How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in California?
Most personal injury claims in California must be filed within two years of the date of the injury (Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1). Claims against a government entity have a much shorter deadline — generally six months to file an administrative claim before any lawsuit can proceed. Some claim types (such as certain product liability or medical malpractice matters) can have different rules. Because the right deadline depends on the specific facts, it’s worth confirming yours directly rather than assuming the general two-year rule applies.
View this answer on its own page →What happens during a free consultation?
We’ll review how your accident or injury happened, any documentation you have (police or incident reports, medical records, insurance correspondence), and give you an honest assessment of your situation and what it may be worth. There’s no obligation to move forward afterward, and the consultation is free.
View this answer on its own page →How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?
Personal injury cases are generally handled on a contingency fee basis — there’s no upfront cost, and the firm only gets paid if it recovers compensation for you. Case costs (filing fees, expert witnesses, and similar expenses) may still apply regardless of outcome in some fee arrangements — ask for the specific terms in writing before moving forward.
View this answer on its own page →How much is my case worth?
Every case is different, and an honest answer depends on the specific facts — the severity of your injuries, medical expenses (past and future), lost income, pain and suffering, and the degree of the other party’s fault. Be cautious of anyone who promises a specific dollar figure before reviewing your actual medical records and the facts of what happened. A free consultation is the right place to get a realistic, case-specific assessment.
View this answer on its own page →Injured? Get a Free Case Evaluation.
Free consultation. No fee unless we recover compensation for you — case costs may still apply regardless of outcome; ask us for the specifics in writing.