Scarlett F

An injury occurring at work may involve workers’ compensation and a separate civil claim against someone other than the employer. For example, the conduct of an outside driver, contractor, or equipment supplier may require investigation. The location of the accident alone does not establish which remedies apply or who can be sued. Start the workers’ […]

A parent negotiating an injury claim for a child faces questions beyond the settlement amount. California’s minor compromise procedures generally require court approval of the child’s settlement. The petition must explain the injury, terms, deductions, and proposed handling of the proceeds so the court can evaluate the child’s interests. A parent’s signature is not the […]

A deposition gives the other side an opportunity to ask questions under oath outside the courtroom. It can address the accident, medical history, treatment, work, and claimed limitations. The best preparation is an accurate understanding of your own history and the process, not a script designed to make every answer favorable. Understand the setting A […]

A defense medical examination is a litigation procedure, not an appointment arranged to provide your treatment. The examiner evaluates issues for the defense. If you receive an examination demand, provide it to your attorney promptly so the scope, timing, examiner, and applicable procedures can be reviewed before the appointment. Read the demand rather than relying […]

A medical bill, an insurer’s explanation of benefits, and a reimbursement claim are different documents. After an injury settlement, there may be obligations to providers or benefit programs that affect the amount the client receives. Identifying those obligations early is more useful than subtracting a guessed medical total from the offer. Separate charges, payments, adjustments, […]

A prior back injury, arthritis diagnosis, or earlier treatment does not automatically defeat a California injury claim. It does require a careful comparison. The relevant question may be whether the new incident caused a different injury, made an existing condition worse, or did neither. Accurate medical history is central to that analysis. Aggravation is different […]