Recent Blog Posts
SEVEN MISTAKES YOU CAN AVOID WHEN INJURED ON THE JOB – PART 2
Certified Workers’ Compensation Specialist 3. SDI – Do not delay! File for State Disability Benefits through Employment Development Department as early on as possible in your case – even if you are receiving monetary benefits for Workers’ Compensation from your employer or their insurance carrier. Filing for such benefits, even if denied initially, will… Read More »
What is the Value of an Injured Pet?
In what seems to be a trend of new cases expanding the rights of pet owners, the Court of Appeal for the Second District recently ruled that the usual standard of recovery for a dead or injured pet (market value) is inadequate when applied to injured pets. The recent case, Martinez v. Robledo, (2012)… Read More »
WHEN CHILD SUPPORT & CUSTODY GET UGLY: IS IT DEFAMATION?
There is no such thing as “happy law”, especially in contested child support, custody, and visitation cases. Of course, the nature of the contested matter is expected to breed a degree of contention and aggravation between the two (or more) parties each contending for what they believe is in the best interests of the… Read More »
Recent Changes to Jury Fee Rules
In California, if you demand a jury trial, you are required to pay a deposit for exercising that right. In recent years, prior to June 5, 2012, the Code of Civil Procedure § 631(b) read: “Each party demanding a jury trial shall deposit advance jury fees with the clerk or judge. The total amount… Read More »
SEVEN MISTAKES YOU CAN AVOID WHEN INJURED ON THE JOB
1. REPORT THE INJURY – If you are injured on the job report your injury. Ask your employer or a DWC1 (claim form). Fill it our and request a copy for your own records. If you work for a small company and you are uncertain if they are insured for work-related injuries or how… Read More »
CHAOS IN COURTS CONTINUES
The domino effect of the budget shortfalls in the State of California court system continues to develop. Previously the Los Angeles Superior Court system announced the closure of four civil courtrooms in Pomona. Most recently, the San Bernardino County Superior Court system has announced that the entire Chino courthouse will close effective January 1,… Read More »
A Remedy Remains: “Stolen Valor” is Still Fraud
Although the Supreme Court recently overturned the Stolen Valor Act of 2006, there are still legal consequences for lying about receiving awards and medals won through military service. Indeed, the ruling in U.S. v. Alvarez does not constitute an endorsement for stealing valor. Instead, in finding the Act unconstitutional, the Court determined only that… Read More »
WHAT TO DO AFTER A WORK RELATED INJURY
The general and safe response is that all injuries should be handled the same way, however, that methodology may not be practical in the course of your work day. Any injury that causes you to believe that you need the care of a doctor should be reported immediately. The person(s) that is considered your… Read More »
Five Things To Do After an Accident
Should you have the misfortune of being involved in an auto accident, it is important that you gather information and undertake a few responsibilities. These are the most important steps to take following a collision. Click here for a useful form that you can keep in your vehicle. This form will help you gather… Read More »
ARE LAWSUIT SETTLEMENTS TAXABLE?
The simple answer to the question regarding the tax consequences of a settlement claim is it all depends on the nature of the settlement! Generally speaking, settlement money received from cases involving personal physical injury or physical sickness can be excluded from taxation (IRS Code sect. 104(a)(2)). Certain other types of settlement awards, (considering… Read More »
