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Tina Westveer

an insurance adjuster sitting with a client and chatting about an accident

No Hables Con Un Ajustador de Seguros Después de Un Accidente

By Español

Por Qué Los Abogados Te Dicen Que Esperes

Después de un accidente, es posible que recibas una llamada de la compañía de seguros del otro conductor. Esta llamada puede parecer inofensiva, pero en realidad es un momento crucial. Hablar con un ajustador de seguros después de un accidente sin la ayuda de un abogado puede perjudicar seriamente tu caso. Los ajustadores de seguros están entrenados para ahorrar dinero a la compañía, no para proteger tus intereses.  

 En el calor del momento, podrías decir algo que parece inocente pero que luego puede ser usado en tu contra. Ya sea minimizado tu dolor o aceptando un acuerdo rápido, cualquier conversación con el ajustador de seguros puede jugar en tu contra. Por eso, los abogados  de lesiones personales recomiendan que esperes para hablar hasta que tengas representación legal de tu lado.  

Cómo Una Llamada Simple Puede Causar Daño.

Aquí tienes varias maneras en que una llamada inocente a un ajustador de seguros puede afectar negativamente tu caso.  

1. Podrías Decir Algo Que Suene a Culpa 

Un comentario como ‘No los vi venir’ podría interpretarse como una admisión de culpa, lo que podría debilitar tu caso. 

2. Podrías Dar Una Declaración Grabada 

Un ajustador puede pedirte una declaración grabada, la presión podría hacer que, sin querer, des información perjudicial que podría usarse en tu contra. 

3. Podrías Minimizar Tu Dolor 

Declaraciones como ‘Solo estoy adolorido’ o ‘Me siento bien’ pueden usarse para argumentar que tus lesiones no son tan graves como dices.  

4. Podrías Aceptar Un Acuerdo Rápido 

Las compañías de seguros a veces ofrecen un acuerdo rápido, pero estas ofertas generalmente no cubren alcance completo de tus pérdidas, especialmente los gastos médicos futuros. 

Los Ajustadores de Seguros No Están de Tu Lado

Un ajustador de seguros, después de un accidente, trabaja en interés de la compañía de seguros, no de ti. Su objetivo es minimizar la cantidad que se paga por tu reclamación. Pueden hacer preguntas que parecen inocentes, como:  

  • ¿Estabas usando tu teléfono? 
  • ¿Viste el otro auto? 
  • ¿Has tenido alguna lesión antes? 

Aunque estas preguntas parezcan normales, tus respuestas podrían ser distorsionadas para implicar que compartes la culpa del accidente o que tus lesiones son menos graves de lo que realmente son.  

Deja Que Un Abogado Hable Por Ti

Cuando contratas a un abogado experimentado, él se encargará de toda la comunicación con el ajustador de seguros en tu nombre. Esto protege tus intereses y asegura que tu caso se mantenga sólido. Tu abogado hará lo siguiente:  

  • Se encargará de las llamadas y declaraciones de la compañía de seguros  
  • Reunirá pruebas clave para respaldar tu reclamación  
  • Asegurará que recibas una compensación justa 
  • Te permitirá concentrarte en tu recuperación mientras ellos se encargan del trabajo legal 

Al trabajar con un abogado, aseguras que tu caso esté en manos capacitadas y que la compañía de seguros no se aproveche de ti. 

Por Qué Fielding Law Esta Aquí para Ti

En Fielding Law, entendemos lo abrumador que puede ser lidiar con un ajustador de seguros después de un accidente. Nuestro equipo está aquí para proteger tus derechos y asegurarse de que recibas un trato justo. Atendemos a clientes tanto en Arizona como en California, y luchamos por la compensación que mereces. Déjanos encargarnos de los procesos legales complicados para que tú puedas enfocarte en sanar. 

Comunícate con Fielding Law al 833.88.SHARK y deja que nuestro equipo compasivo te brinde apoyo durante este tiempo difícil.  

Lo Que Dices Importa

Si recibes una llamada de un ajustador de seguros, tienes derecho a decir, “Me gustaría hablar con mi abogado antes de discutir cualquier cosa.” Al hacer esto, proteges tu caso y evitas decir algo que pueda dañarlo. Recuerda, tus palabras importan, y en Fielding Law estamos aquí para asegurarnos de que hables en el momento adecuado y de la manera correcta. 

Nota: La información proporcionada es para fines educativos y no constituye asesoramiento legal. Siempre consulte con un abogado calificado para inquietudes legales.

Fielding Law team at Rolling Tides team bonding self-defense class

California Team Bonding over Self-Defense at Rolling Tide

By Firm News and Celebrations

Fielding Law team at Rolling Tides team bonding self-defense class

At Fielding Law, we know that strong teamwork makes us better advocates for our clients. Recently, our California team focused on growth, trust, and resilience through a California team bonding self-defense class at Rolling Tide Jiu Jitsu.

Learning Self-Defense Together

The class taught us practical techniques to protect ourselves in real-world situations. Our instructors guided us through exercises that emphasized awareness, confidence, and physical control. While some of us were beginners, everyone left feeling empowered and capable.

Building Team Trust

Beyond learning skills, the experience strengthened our teamwork. Working side by side in a supportive environment showed us new ways to communicate, trust each other, and support one another under pressure. This California team bonding self-defense experience reminded us that collaboration and confidence are just as important in the office as they are on the mat.

Why This Matters to Our Clients

Bringing the same teamwork and focus we practiced at Rolling Tide into our cases benefits the clients we serve. Our ability to work together, think quickly, and stay calm under pressure helps us provide effective and compassionate legal guidance.

A Memorable Day

Our self-defense session was fun, challenging, and inspiring. It reinforced our commitment to growth, personally and professionally. Experiences like this strengthen our team so we can better serve our clients at Fielding Law every day.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Teal background with Fielding Law shark jaw icon in the middle

We Take Pride in Our Interns

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

Celebrating Our Summer Interns

At Fielding Law, we take pride in welcoming interns who bring energy, curiosity, and fresh ideas to our team. This summer, we are thrilled to have two outstanding interns: Makenzie Moncrief, who joined our marketing team, and Daisy Fontanes, who joined our client success team.

Makenzie Moncrief, Marketing Intern

Daisy Fontanes

Daisy Fontanes, Intern

Daisy’s Role in Client Success

Daisy stepped into a front-line role, often being the very first voice callers heard when reaching out to our office. Whether she was speaking with medical providers, insurance companies, or potential new clients, she guided each conversation with focus and empathy. She listened to clients’ stories, took down key information, and ensured they were connected with the right team member.

Her days included everything from assisting with case management research to sitting in on file review and litigation meetings, learning from each department through Q&A sessions, and even attending a marketing meeting to see the behind-the-scenes work that connects our firm with the community.

One of Daisy’s most heartfelt contributions was creating over 100 personalized, handmade birthday cards for clients with August birthdays. She also sent handwritten notes and care packages to clients experiencing loss, undergoing surgery, or navigating a difficult moment. Reflecting on her time at Fielding Law, Daisy shared, “During my time here at Fielding Law, I learned that advocacy is not loud, it is focused, empathetic, and human. That quiet strength raised the bar for the kind of work I want to do and the people I want to do it with. Seeing justice pursued in that way is hard to forget.”

Makenzie Moncrief

Makenzie Moncrief, Marketing Intern

Makenzie’s Impact in Marketing

From her first week, Makenzie immersed herself in the creative process, learning our voice and applying it with care. She wrote blogs that reflected our values, created social media captions that connected with our audience, and refined image text to ensure clarity and accessibility. She also filmed and hosted interviews with team members, helping capture stories that show the human side of legal work.

Her work on these projects was not just about producing content; it was about telling stories that matter. Makenzie’s ability to listen, adapt, and refine her work ensured every piece was both polished and authentic. She reflected, “I am deeply grateful for my experience at Fielding Law this summer. It has broadened my perspective and reaffirmed that a future of opportunities lie ahead on my path.”

Why Fielding Law Values Interns

Summer interns like Makenzie and Daisy remind us that mentorship and collaboration are essential to our mission. They bring fresh perspectives, strengthen our team, and embody the caring, capable approach we take to every client relationship. By welcoming them into our processes, we not only help them build their skills, we also benefit from their creativity, insight, and dedication.

We are proud to have had Makenzie and Daisy on our team this summer. We look forward to seeing the impact they will make in their careers.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Clark Fielding, Best Lawyers in America 2025

Clark H. Fielding Recognized in 32nd edition of The Best Lawyers in America®

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury, Product Liability

A Distinguished Recognition

Clark H. Fielding has been selected for inclusion in the 32nd edition of The Best Lawyers in America® for his outstanding work in personal injury and product liability litigation. This distinction reflects not only his proven results but also the respect he has earned from peers across the legal community.

How This Honor Is Earned

Recognition in the 32nd edition of The Best Lawyers in America® is not self-nominated. Instead, it is based on a peer-review process where attorneys are nominated by fellow lawyers who have witnessed their skill, integrity, and professionalism firsthand. Earning a place in this list underscores Clark’s consistent dedication to protecting the rights of injured clients and holding negligent parties accountable.

Dedication to Fighting for the Injured

Throughout his career, Clark H. Fielding has represented individuals and families facing life-changing injuries caused by negligence. His commitment goes beyond the courtroom. He works to ensure clients receive both the justice and financial support they deserve during their most difficult times. This recognition highlights his role as a compassionate guide for those navigating the legal system after serious injuries.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, our mission is to improve the lives of each client through ethical and efficient legal representation. Our team is professional, civil, and kind, ensuring that clients feel supported while receiving the highest level of legal advocacy. If you or a loved one has been injured, you can trust that our attorneys will fight with the same dedication and skill that earned Clark H. Fielding this distinguished honor.

Contact Fielding Law Today

If you need an experienced advocate after an auto accident, slip, trip and fall, product liability injury, or another injury, call 833.88.SHARK for your free consultation. Our attorneys are here to help you rise above the challenges and secure the justice you deserve.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

court room gavel with a handle holding it

Plaintiffs vs. Defendants

By Car Accident, Personal Injury

What Is a Plaintiff?

A plaintiff is the person who files a lawsuit. In personal injury cases, this is usually someone who has been hurt due to someone else’s negligence. At Fielding Law, we represent plaintiffs—the people who have been injured and are seeking justice and compensation for what happened to them.

Examples of plaintiffs:

The plaintiff is the one bringing the case to court or filing a claim to recover damages like medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.

What Is a Defendant?

A defendant is the person, company, or entity being sued. In a personal injury case, this is usually the one who caused the harm—or their insurance company.

Examples of defendants:

  • A careless driver

  • A business that failed to fix a dangerous hazard

  • A camp or daycare that did not keep children safe

  • A dog owner whose pet attacked someone

The defendant’s goal is to avoid paying or to minimize the amount they have to pay.

What Does Fielding Law Do?

We only represent plaintiffs—people who were seriously injured because of someone else’s actions or carelessness. We do not defend at-fault parties, and we never represent insurance companies. Our job is to stand beside the injured person and fight for what they need to heal and move forward.

We believe in doing what is right. We listen, we build strong cases, and we do everything we can to help our clients recover—physically, emotionally, and financially.

Why Hire Fielding Law?

At Fielding Law, we are known for our kindness, professionalism, and relentless pursuit of justice. We take the time to understand what really happened, how it impacted you, and what it will take to make it right. You are not just another case file to us—you are a real person who deserves to be heard, respected, and supported.

If you have been injured and want to speak with a team who will treat you like family, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK today.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Person holding an Ipad at a desk with paper

Top 10 Mitos Sobre Lesiones Personales — ¡Desmentidos!

By Español

En el ámbito de las reclamaciones por daños personales, la desinformación puede ser un obstáculo que impide a las personas tomar decisiones informadas sobre sus derechos y compensaciones. Para brindarte el conocimiento adecuado, emprendemos un viaje para desmentir los 10 mitos principales que rodean las lesiones personales. Al disipar estas ideas erróneas, nuestro objetivo es brindar claridad y orientación, asegurándonos de que navegues el a menudo complejo panorama de las reclamaciones por lesiones personales con confianza y comprensión.  

Desmintiendo Mitos Sobre Lesiones Personales 

Mito 1: Solo Las Lesiones Graves Merecen Compensación 

En realidad, incluso las lesiones leves pueden justificar una compensación. Se deben considerar las facturas médicas, la pérdida de salarios y el dolor sufrimiento.  

Mito 2: Los Acuerdos Rápidos Son la Mejor Opción 

Los acuerdos rápidos pueden parecer convenientes, pero a menudo subestiman el valor de tu reclamación. La paciencia permite una evaluación justa.  

Mito 3: Las Reclamaciones Por Lesiones Personales Significan Ir a Juicio 

La mayoría de los casos se resuelven fuera de los tribunales. La negociación hábil suele conducir a acuerdos favorables sin necesidad de un juicio. 

Mito 4: Solo Los Accidentes de Coche Califican 

Las lesiones personales abarcan diversos escenarios, desde resbalones y caídas hasta mordeduras de perro. Cualquier negligencia que cause daño puede justificar una reclamación. 

Mito 5: Puedes Hacerlo Por Ti Mismo 

Contar con representación legal mejora significativamente tus posibilidades de obtener una compensación justa. El asesoramiento profesional garantiza que tus derechos estén protegidos. 

Mito 6: Puedes Esperar Para Presentar Una Reclamación 

Existen plazos de prescripción. Retrasar la presentación de una reclamación puede poner en riesgo tu elegibilidad para recibir una compensación. Consulta a un abogado sin demora. 

Mito 7: Las Compañías de Seguros Siempre Ofrecen Acuerdos Justos 

Las compañías de seguros buscan minimizar los pagos. La representación legal garantiza que recibas lo que realmente mereces. 

Mito 8: Las Reclamaciones Por Lesiones Personales Son Costosas 

Fielding Law opera bajo un esquema de honorarios de contingencia. No pagas nada por adelantado, asegurando el acceso a la justicia sin importar las limitaciones económicas. 

Mito 9: Solo Las Lesiones Físicas Cuentan 

La angustia emocional y el sufrimiento mental son componentes válidos en las reclamaciones por lesiones personales. Busca compensación por todas las formas de sufrimiento. 

Mito 10: Es Demasiado Tarde Para Presentar Una Reclamación 

Consulta con Fielding Law para determinar si aún puedes presentar una reclamación. No asumas que es demasiado tarde sin buscar asesoría legal.  

Fielding Law: Tu Guía en Lesiones Personales 

Al disipar estos mitos, esperamos infundir confianza en quienes navegan las complejidades de las reclamaciones por lesiones personales. En Fielding Law, nuestro compromiso va más allá de la simple representación legal; nos esforzamos por ser una luz guía, ofreciendo claridad y apoyo en tu búsqueda de justicia. No permitas que las ideas erróneas obstaculicen tu camino hacia una compensación justa. Comunícate con Fielding Law al 833.88.SHARK para una consulta gratuita, y permítenos aclarar tus dudas sobre las reclamaciones por lesiones personales. 

Nota: La información proporcionada es para fines educativos y no constituye asesoramiento legal. Siempre consulte con un abogado calificado para inquietudes legales.

chapman-university-dale-e-fowler-school-law

Ryan Cooper, Senior Attorney, Speaks at Chapman Law Faculty Retreat on AI

By Personal Injury

Chapman Law Faculty Retreat on AI

Ryan Cooper, Senior Attorney at Fielding Law and alum of Chapman University Fowler School of Law, recently presented at the Chapman University Fowler School of Law Faculty Retreat. His topic, artificial intelligence in legal practice, addressed how AI is transforming the profession and how law schools can prepare students for this shift.

Ryan Cooper Speaking on artificial intelligence in legal practice at Chapman Faculty Retreat

Ryan Cooper, Senior Attorney, pictured in the center

Ryan outlined how AI can speed up legal research, improve case analysis, and enhance client service. He also explained why ethical use matters. He urged faculty to teach students how to work with AI tools while protecting client data, avoiding bias, and maintaining transparency.

During the discussion, Ryan shared real examples of how AI benefits attorneys when used responsibly. He also addressed risks, such as reliance on inaccurate AI-generated information or breaches of confidentiality. These insights gave faculty a clearer picture of the skills their students will need.

Recognized Authority in Ethical AI Use

Ryan Cooper is widely known for his knowledge of artificial intelligence in legal practice and legal ethics. He regularly shares these insights with peers, educators, and legal organizations. His article in The Gavel, the magazine of the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association, highlighted practical and ethical strategies for adopting AI in the legal field.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Fielding Law is committed to protecting the rights of people injured due to negligence. Our attorneys provide skilled, compassionate, and ethical representation. If you have been injured and need trusted legal support, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK to discuss your case.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Fielding Law jaw logo on black background

Mentorship That Builds Future Lawyers

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

A Launchpad for Future Attorneys

At Fielding Law, we believe a law firm should do more than win cases—it should grow future attorneys. Our firm culture is built around mentorship, education, and meaningful hands-on experience that helps the next generation of lawyers thrive.
Zeke Bellino of Fielding Law at New England Law | Boston

Zeke Bellino, Case Resolution Lead at New England Law | Boston

Zeke Bellino is a perfect example of that mission in motion.

Zeke joined Fielding Law through a connection with UCI Baseball, where he played catcher for the team we proudly sponsor. After reaching out, he joined our team and quickly rose to become Lead Case Resolution Specialist. Zeke stood out for his discipline, curiosity, and drive to do right by our clients.
Now, he is preparing to attend law school at New England Law | Boston with plans to serve in the military’s JAG Corps.

Mentorship Is Our Model

Zeke’s journey is one of many that began here. At Fielding Law, we view our firm as an incubator for people who want to grow in the legal profession. We do not believe in limiting responsibility—we give team members room to learn, contribute, and lead.
From real legal strategy to direct client interaction, we make sure our staff gain the kind of experience that sets them apart in the classroom, courtroom, and beyond.
We take pride in being a launchpad for future attorneys—and Zeke’s success is something we will always celebrate.

Why Hire Fielding Law

When you hire Fielding Law, you are hiring a team rooted in experience, integrity, and purpose. We bring compassion and professionalism to every case, and we are proud of the people who have grown here. If you need help after an accident or injury, call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law today.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Person riding an e-bike on sand

Newport Beach Bans Bikes and E-Bikes on the Sand

By Bicycle Accident, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury

Newport Beach Bike Ban: What You Need to Know

The Newport Beach bike ban, which went into effect in May 2025, now blocks bicycles, e-bikes, motorized scooters, and pedicabs from traveling on the sand at city beaches. City leaders approved the rule to improve safety and protect fragile dune habitats. Fast-moving bikes and e-bikes can cause serious injuries in crowded beach areas. They can also harm protected wildlife in sensitive sand dunes.

How This Rule Can Impact Injury Claims

Local laws shape many personal injury cases. When a rider ignores the Newport Beach bike ban and injures someone, that violation can serve as strong evidence of negligence. An injured pedestrian can point to the ordinance to support their claim.

If an accident happens where bikes and e-bikes remain legal—such as the boardwalk—the focus shifts. The question becomes whether the rider followed the 8 mph speed limit and operated with care. Motorized scooters remain prohibited on the boardwalk entirely.

Examples of Possible Legal Cases

  • Pedestrian hit on the sand: A rider who ignores the ban and hits a pedestrian may face liability for injuries.

  • Shared-fault situations: California’s comparative fault law reduces compensation if both parties share blame.

  • Property loss: The city can impound abandoned or improperly stored vehicles, creating potential property damage claims.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we track how changes like the Newport Beach bike ban influence personal injury cases. Our attorneys understand the laws in California and Arizona and know how to use them to build strong claims. If a bicycle, e-bike, or scooter accident injured you or someone you love, our team will fight for fair compensation.

Call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law today for a free consultation.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Teal background with Fielding Law shark jaw icon in the middle

Case Manager Appreciation Day: Celebrating Our Team’s Heart and Dedication

By Firm News and Celebrations

At Fielding Law, we know that behind every successful case is a dedicated case manager working tirelessly to support our clients. To show our deep appreciation for their hard work, compassion, and commitment, we recently celebrated Case Manager Appreciation Day by treating our case managers to a well-deserved day off filled with relaxation and good food.

Our case managers spent the day at Burke Williams Spa in Orange, California, where they enjoyed luxurious treatments designed to refresh the mind and body. After a soothing spa experience, we took them out for a delicious lunch at Finney’s Crafthouse & Kitchen.

Our case managers at Burke Williams for a massage and Lunch and Finney's

From Left to Right: Julia Villaran, Alyssia Sparks, and Savonnah Saumers.

Why We Celebrate Case Manager Appreciation Day

Case managers are the backbone of our legal team. They handle the complex details of client communication, coordinate appointments, and ensure that every client feels supported throughout their journey. Their role requires empathy, patience, and exceptional organization skills — qualities that can sometimes be overlooked but are absolutely essential.

By dedicating a day to appreciate their efforts, we want to recognize the invaluable role they play and offer them a chance to recharge. The demanding nature of personal injury law means our case managers often work under pressure, balancing the needs of our clients with tight deadlines and complex logistics. Giving them time to relax and enjoy a break helps boost morale and reminds them that their well-being is just as important as the work they do.

The Meaning Behind This Experience

This day of appreciation is more than just a treat — it is a reflection of our culture at Fielding Law. We believe showing kindness and respect to every team member creates a positive environment that benefits our clients. When case managers feel valued and cared for, they bring their best selves to work each day.

Taking time to say “thank you” encourages camaraderie and motivates our team to keep rising together. This appreciation day reminds us that behind every call and case, there is a person deserving gratitude and support.

Why It Matters to Our Clients

When case managers are supported and appreciated, they are better equipped to advocate for our clients. This means smoother communication, quicker responses, and a more compassionate approach — all of which improve the overall client experience. Our commitment to valuing our team translates directly into better service and stronger outcomes for those who entrust us with their cases.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, our team is more than just a group of attorneys and staff. We are a community committed to supporting one another and our clients. We understand that every person on our team plays a vital role in providing ethical, efficient, and empathetic legal representation. From our attorneys to our case managers, we work together to ensure you receive the care and attention you deserve.

If you or a loved one need compassionate legal help, do not hesitate to call Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK today.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

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