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Car Accident

two professionals shaking hands in a law office

How Professionalism Helps Your Injury Case

By Car Accident, Firm News and Celebrations, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall, Wrongful Death

Why Professionalism Matters

When you hire an attorney, you want someone who is capable, compassionate, and respectful to you and everyone involved in your case. At Fielding Law, we believe that professionalism in personal injury law is more than good manners. It is a strategy that leads to better outcomes for our clients.

Our Senior Attorney, Ryan Cooper, recently received this comment from a defense attorney:

“Thanks for the professionalism and avoidance of game play on this one. Quite refreshing and I look forward to working with you again.”

This kind of feedback matters. It reflects the way we choose to show up—with integrity and purpose.

How It Helps Your Case

It Builds Credibility

When opposing counsel respects your attorney, it builds trust. That trust can make negotiations more productive, reducing delays and unnecessary conflict.

It Keeps the Focus on You

Professionalism removes distractions. No drama, no games—just results. That means your case stays focused on your injuries, your recovery, and your right to compensation.

It Encourages Fair Settlements

When attorneys act with civility, cases are more likely to settle fairly and efficiently. Insurance adjusters and defense counsel are more willing to cooperate when the process feels professional.

It Strengthens Courtroom Presence

Judges notice. Juries notice. Respectful, well-prepared attorneys are more persuasive in court. That can be the difference between winning and losing.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we know that professionalism is not just about being polite. It is about being prepared, intentional, and focused on your needs. Our team is here to support you with kind, capable, and strategic legal representation. Whether you were injured in a car crash, slip and fall, or another accident caused by negligence, we are ready to help.

Reach out today at 833.88.SHARK or visit our Contact Us page to schedule a free consultation.

Let us show you how professionalism and compassion go hand in hand.

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

freeway at dusk with headlight and tail light streaks

6 Steps After Your Vehicle Breaks Down on the Freeway

By Car Accident

If your vehicle breaks down on the freeway, it can be a frightening and dangerous situation. With vehicles traveling at high speeds, knowing how to handle a breakdown safely is crucial. Here are the steps you should take if your car becomes disabled on the highway.

1. Move to a Safe Location

If you notice your vehicle having trouble, attempt to exit the freeway as soon as possible. If that is not an option, follow these steps:

  • Turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers.
  • Steer toward the right shoulder of the road, if possible.
  • If you cannot make it to the shoulder, try to move to a safe location away from active traffic lanes.
  • If stopping in a traffic lane is unavoidable, remain in your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.

2. Make Your Vehicle Visible

Visibility is key to preventing further accidents. Take these precautions to ensure other drivers can see your car:

  • Keep your hazard lights on.
  • If it is safe to exit the vehicle, set up emergency warning triangles or flares behind your car.
  • At night, turn on your interior lights to increase visibility.

3. Call for Help

Once you are in a safe location, call for roadside assistance or emergency services. Depending on your situation, you may need:

  • A tow truck
  • A mechanic
  • Law enforcement if your car is obstructing traffic

Most insurance policies offer roadside assistance, so check your coverage in advance.

4. Stay Inside If It Is Not Safe to Exit

Freeways can be extremely dangerous for pedestrians. Unless there is a clear and safe way to exit the vehicle, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened. If you must leave your car, carefully move to a safe area away from traffic.

5. Preventative Measures to Avoid Breakdowns

While not all breakdowns can be avoided, regular vehicle maintenance can reduce the chances of an unexpected failure. Consider these preventative steps:

  • Check tire pressure and tread regularly.
  • Ensure your battery is in good condition.
  • Keep your fuel tank at least a quarter full to avoid running out of gas.
  • Have your vehicle serviced routinely.

6. Why Hire Fielding Law?

If you have been injured due to a breakdown-related accident, Fielding Law is here to help. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of freeway accidents and can assist you in pursuing compensation. Contact us today at 833.88.SHARK for a consultation.

Taking the right steps after your vehicle breaks down on the freeway can help you stay safe and avoid further danger. Being prepared and knowing how to respond can make all the difference on the freeway.

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

Lights on a police car during a chase or speed traffic stop

I Sustained Injuries During a High-Speed Chase, Now What?

By Car Accident, Personal Injury, Public Entity

High-speed chases in Los Angeles are an unfortunate reality, with police pursuits frequently making the news. While law enforcement’s goal is to apprehend criminals, these chases come with significant risks to everyone on the road. As a bystander, whether you are a pedestrian, cyclist, motorcyclist, or driver, you can find yourself in harm’s way if you are caught in the middle of one of these dangerous events. These high-speed pursuits often lead to unpredictable and catastrophic accidents that can result in serious injuries or even death.

If you are injured as an innocent bystander during a high-speed chase, it is essential to understand your rights and what steps you should take. In such cases, the legal complexities can be overwhelming, especially when determining liability. Is it the fleeing driver who is responsible? Could law enforcement’s actions during the pursuit play a role in the accident? Here is what you need to know if you find yourself in this situation.

Pedestrian Injuries in a High-Speed Chase

Pedestrians are at great risk during high-speed chases. If a suspect crashes into you while fleeing, injuries can be severe. As a pedestrian, you have little protection. Broken bones, head trauma, and internal injuries are common.

In California, the driver may be held accountable for your injuries. If police officers acted negligently during the chase, they may also be liable.

Cyclist Injuries in a High-Speed Chase

Cyclists are vulnerable to serious harm if hit during a high-speed chase. Lack of protection makes even minor crashes potentially life-changing. Injuries like broken bones, head trauma, and road rash are common.

As a cyclist, you can seek compensation if the fleeing driver is at fault. However, if police negligence contributed to the crash, you may have grounds for a claim against the police department.

Motorcycle Injuries in a High-Speed Chase

Motorcycle riders face severe risks in high-speed chases. A fleeing driver can cause motorcyclists to lose control, resulting in catastrophic injuries. Spinal injuries, broken bones, and brain trauma are often the result.

If the fleeing driver is at fault, they will be held responsible. However, police may share liability if their actions were negligent during the pursuit.

Car Injuries During a High-Speed Chase

If you are in a car and struck by a fleeing vehicle, the injuries can range from minor to severe. High-speed collisions can cause significant damage and serious harm, such as whiplash or broken bones.

In most cases, the fleeing driver is liable. However, if law enforcement’s actions contributed to the accident, there may be grounds to hold the police department responsible.

What Are Your Rights?

As a bystander, your rights depend on the situation. You can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If the fleeing driver caused the crash, they are responsible. If police negligence played a role, it may be necessary to investigate further.

Why Hire Fielding Law?

At Fielding Law, we are committed to helping bystanders injured in high-speed chases. Our experienced team will investigate the details of the chase and determine fault. We will guide you through the process, ensuring that your rights are protected.

Call Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation. We will fight for your rights while you focus on your recovery.


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

e bike being road on a small local street

Reckless E-Bike and E-Scooter Games: Who Is at Fault?

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

Reddit message about reckless e-bike and e-scooter riders in IrvineReckless E-Bike and E-Scooter Behavior Raises Concerns

In Irvine and surrounding areas, there has been a surge of comments on local Facebook groups and Nextdoor about teenagers playing games with drivers at traffic lights while riding e-bikes and e-scooters. Many drivers are alarmed at the increase in this behavior, especially when young riders dart into intersections or swerve in front of moving traffic.

One Reddit user shared their recent experience at W Yale Loop and Blue Lake South, where three teen girls rode diagonally through a busy intersection. This kind of behavior might seem funny to teens, but for drivers, it is a terrifying moment with potentially deadly consequences.

Who Is at Fault in an E-Bike or E-Scooter Accident?

California law requires e-bike and e-scooter riders to follow the same rules as cars. If a rider behaves recklessly and causes an accident, they can be held liable. But many minors do not carry insurance, and their bikes often do not have license plates or registration. This makes it difficult for victims to pursue compensation unless a parent’s homeowner’s policy or the driver’s own uninsured motorist coverage applies.

If a driver overcorrects to avoid a reckless rider and crashes into another vehicle, the situation becomes more complex. Under California’s comparative negligence rules, fault can be shared. If the driver’s reaction was reasonable under the circumstances, the bulk of the fault may still lie with the e-bike rider.

Who Can Legally Ride an E-Bike?

California divides e-bikes into three classes:

Class 1: Pedal-assist, up to 20 mph. No minimum age. Helmets required under 18.
Class 2: Throttle-assisted, up to 20 mph. No minimum age. Helmets required under 18.
Class 3: Pedal-assist, up to 28 mph. Must be at least 16 years old. Helmets required under 18. Not allowed on most bike paths.

E-scooter riders must be at least 16 and have a driver’s license or permit. Riders under 18 must wear helmets. Sidewalk riding is prohibited.

The Irvine Police Department is urging parents to take a closer look at what they are buying for their kids. Many of the motorized bikes on local roads are not legally considered e-bikes at all. According to a recent social media post from Irvine PD, officers are encountering more juveniles on electric motorcycles—vehicles that require a driver’s license and cannot be used on public roads by unlicensed minors. If the vehicle does not have pedals, it is not an e-bike. It is an electric motorcycle.

Public Warnings and Community Reactions

Community frustration is growing. In addition to the Reddit posts and neighborhood threads, local media is covering the issue. KTLA reported that some cities, including Lake Forest and Irvine, are seeing waves of reckless riding, with residents saying they feel “terrorized” by teens weaving in and out of traffic or riding in large, fast-moving groups.

The Irvine Police Department has issued multiple social media warnings about unsafe e-bike use, street takeovers, and kids riding unregistered and illegal vehicles. These warnings are not about fear—they are about safety. One wrong move can lead to irreversible consequences.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we help drivers and pedestrians recover after life-changing crashes involving reckless e-bike or e-scooter riders. Our team understands how confusing these situations can be, especially when the at-fault rider is a minor. We guide you through every step of the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

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.

California license plate on the front of a car

California to Change License Plate Sequence in 2026 as Numbers Run Low

By Car Accident, Personal Injury

Why the Update Is Needed

A major California license plate change is coming in 2026. The state is quickly running out of its current license plate combinations, prompting a shift in format for all newly registered vehicles. For decades, California has used the same license plate sequence—but the growing number of cars on the road means a new system is now required.

The Current System Is Maxed Out

Since 1980, California has issued standard license plates in the format of one number, followed by three letters and three numbers (e.g., 1AAA000). This long-standing system is nearing its limit. The California DMV is currently processing plates in the 9UBA000–9UBZ999 range. Once the state reaches 9ZZZ999, the sequence will be exhausted.

This upcoming California license plate change will mark the end of a decades-old format.

What the New Format Will Look Like

The updated sequence will shift to three numbers, three letters, and one number (e.g., 000AAA0). This new configuration will dramatically increase the number of available license plates and support California’s rapidly growing number of vehicle registrations.

According to the DMV, this California license plate change is expected to be fully in effect by 2026, slightly ahead of schedule due to unexpected growth in car sales.

Why Plates Are Running Out Faster Than Expected

A surprising factor behind the plate shortage is the increased pace of new vehicle purchases. Buyers have been rushing to purchase cars due to concerns about potential price increases from international trade tariffs. In fact, new vehicle registrations jumped 8.3% in early 2025, according to the California New Car Dealers Association.

As a result, the state is burning through license plate combinations faster than projected. This is triggering the need for a California license plate change earlier than originally anticipated.

What Drivers Should Know

If you plan to register a new vehicle in 2026 or later, your plate will likely follow the new 000AAA0 format. While the visual difference is subtle, this California license plate change represents a major behind-the-scenes shift in how the state manages registrations and identification for vehicles.

Looking Ahead

The California license plate change is just one example of how infrastructure must evolve to keep up with growth. As the state moves into this new phase, the DMV will continue updating drivers on when the new format officially launches.

Injured in a Car Accident?

While license plates may be changing, auto accidents still happen every day on California roads. At Fielding Law, our local team understands the roadways, traffic patterns, and unique challenges drivers face here. We help injury victims navigate the legal system with compassion, knowledge, and personalized attention. Our experienced attorneys handle car accidents, bicycle accidents, slip-and-fall cases, and more, ensuring each client understands their options and receives the support they need. We focus on holding negligent parties accountable while guiding families through every step of the claims process.

Call 833.88.SHARK or schedule your free consultation to speak with our skilled local team and protect your rights.

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

person sitting on a sofa writing in their pain journal

Why You Should Track Your Pain Daily

By Car Accident, Personal Injury

Why a Pain Journal Matters

After a personal injury, the healing process often involves both physical and emotional pain. A pain journal for injury claim recovery can help document your experience day by day. More than just notes, it can become a valuable part of your case.

Pain is personal, and it changes over time. By tracking your symptoms and how they affect your daily life, you provide clear insight into what you have been experiencing. This can be helpful for doctors, legal teams, and insurance companies.

What to Include in a Pain Journal

A good pain journal should be clear, consistent, and detailed. Try to update it daily or at least several times a week. You do not need to write long entries, but the right details make a difference.

Include the following information
  • Date and Time – Always include when you write

  • Pain Levels – Use a 1 to 10 scale to measure pain

  • Type of Pain – Sharp, dull, throbbing, burning, etc.

  • Activities Impacted – What can you not do now that you could before

  • Emotions or Mood – How the pain affects your mental health

  • Medication or Treatment – Note what helps and what does not

Keeping this record shows patterns. It may also help doctors adjust treatment and help legal teams build your case.

Can a Pain Journal Be Used as Evidence

A pain journal may support your injury claim. While it is not considered formal evidence on its own, it can back up your testimony. It can also help refresh your memory months later.

In personal injury cases, consistent and honest records can help show the severity and duration of your suffering. This includes the impact on your work, sleep, hobbies, and family life.

Your journal may also be useful during settlement talks or court proceedings. It tells your story clearly, in your own words.

A Tool for Healing and Support

Besides legal use, a pain journal offers emotional benefits. Writing helps you reflect and track progress. It helps make the healing journey more visible.

For many people, journaling creates structure in an uncertain time. It helps regain a sense of control when so much feels out of your hands.

Why Choose Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand the importance of your story. Pain journals help us better represent the challenges you face. Our team listens, supports, and stands ready to fight for the outcome you deserve.

You will never be treated like a case number. We treat each client with kindness and professionalism, while delivering strong legal representation.

When you are ready to talk, call 833.88.SHARK or reach out to Fielding Law. Let us help you navigate what comes next.

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

Man and Woman Wearing Traditional Mexican Clothes for Cinco de mayo

Stay Safe This Cinco de Mayo

By Car Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Slip or Trip and Fall

Cinco de Mayo is a time for celebration with friends and family, but it is important to keep safety in mind while enjoying the festivities. Here are a few tips for staying safe while you celebrate.

Driving Safely on Cinco de Mayo

  • Use a Designated Driver: If you plan to drink, make sure you have a designated driver. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also great options to avoid driving under the influence.

  • Stay Alert on the Road: Celebrations can make the roads busier, with more impaired drivers. Pay attention to other drivers and follow the rules of the road.

  • Know Your Limits: Even a small amount of alcohol can affect your ability to drive. Remember that the legal limit for BAC is 0.08% in California and Arizona, but it is safer to avoid drinking and driving altogether.

  • Plan Ahead: If you are out late, plan ahead for a safe way to get home. Many cities offer discounts or free rides during major holidays like Cinco de Mayo.

Preventing Accidents While Celebrating

  • Pace Yourself: Drinking slowly and alternating alcoholic beverages with water can help you stay in control and avoid accidents.

  • Supervise Children: Keep an eye on children if you are hosting a party, especially if alcohol is involved.

  • Be Careful While Moving Around: Whether dancing, playing games, or simply enjoying time with friends, be aware of your surroundings to avoid slips, trips, or falls.

  • Avoid Distractions: If you are attending a gathering, avoid texting or driving distracted. If you need to use your phone, pull over to a safe location before checking messages or navigation.

Personal Injury Awareness

With the fun of the celebration, it is also important to be aware of the potential for accidents and injuries.

  • DUI Accidents: DUI-related accidents are common on holidays like Cinco de Mayo. If you have been involved in a DUI accident, it is crucial to contact an experienced attorney to protect your rights.

  • Injuries at Gatherings: Accidents can happen, whether from a fall or another person’s actions. If you are injured at a friend’s home or public event, seek medical help right away. Depending on the situation, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

Why Hire Fielding Law?

At Fielding Law, we are here to help if you are injured in an accident. Our team has experience handling personal injury cases, from car accidents to slip and falls. We understand how difficult it can be after an injury, and we are dedicated to providing compassionate, capable legal support.

If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, do not hesitate to reach out to Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK to discuss your case. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

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

a bicycle and a motorcycle on the side of the road with a lake in the background

Motorcycle and Bicycle Safety: Look Twice, Save a Life

By Bicycle Accident, Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident

Every year, thousands of motorcyclists and bicyclists are injured or killed in accidents that could have been prevented with greater awareness. One of the most important habits all drivers can develop is to look twice before making a turn or changing lanes. This simple action can save lives and reduce devastating collisions.

Why Motorcycles and Bicycles Are Harder to See

Motorcycles and bicycles are significantly smaller than cars, making them more difficult to spot in traffic. Several factors contribute to their reduced visibility:

  • Blind Spots: Many crashes occur because motorcycles or bicycles are in a driver’s blind spot. If drivers do not take the time to check thoroughly, they may merge or turn directly into a rider’s path.
  • Lane Positioning: Unlike cars, motorcycles and bicycles may position themselves differently within a lane to avoid road hazards, making them less predictable.
  • Speed Misjudgment: Due to their smaller size, drivers often misjudge how fast a motorcycle is approaching, leading to dangerous left-turn accidents at intersections.

How Drivers Can Prevent Accidents

Taking a few extra seconds to be more aware of motorcycles and bicycles can make all the difference. Here are some key tips:

  • Check Twice Before Turning or Changing Lanes: Always double-check your mirrors and blind spots before making a move.
  • Be Extra Cautious at Intersections: Many accidents occur when drivers make left-hand turns without noticing an oncoming rider.
  • Give Riders Space: Do not follow too closely. Motorcycles and bicycles need room to maneuver, especially in poor weather or on rough roads.
  • Use Your Turn Signals Early: Clear communication on the road helps everyone anticipate movements and avoid collisions.
  • Avoid Distracted Driving: Keep your focus on the road. Even a moment of distraction can be deadly for motorcyclists and bicyclists.

Safety Tips for Riders

While drivers have a responsibility to look out for motorcyclists and bicyclists, riders should also take proactive steps to stay safe:

  • Wear Bright or Reflective Gear: Increasing visibility can help prevent accidents, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
  • Make Eye Contact with Drivers: If possible, confirm that a driver sees you before crossing an intersection or merging.
  • Ride Defensively: Assume that drivers may not see you and be prepared to react quickly to sudden lane changes or stops.
  • Use Proper Lighting: Keep headlights, taillights, and reflectors clean and functioning properly.

Why Awareness Matters

A crash involving a motorcycle or bicycle often results in severe injuries or fatalities. Unlike cars, riders do not have the same level of protection, making them more vulnerable to serious harm. By increasing awareness and adopting safe driving habits, both drivers and riders can work together to prevent these tragedies.

Why Hire Fielding Law?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle or bicycle accident due to a negligent driver, you do not have to face the legal process alone. Fielding Law specializes in personal injury cases and is dedicated to helping victims get the compensation they deserve. Contact Fielding Law today at 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.

Several vehicles on a Los Angeles freeway with the hills in the background

Who Pays When Multiple Parties Are Liable?

By Car Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall, Wrongful Death

What Is Joint and Several Liability?

In certain situations, when multiple parties are responsible for causing harm, one defendant might be required to pay the full amount of damages, even if others share some of the responsibility. This is known as joint and several liability. If one defendant pays the entire amount, they may later seek reimbursement from the other responsible parties. This legal concept can greatly impact how damages are divided in a personal injury case.

How Does Joint and Several Liability Work?

When more than one defendant is involved in an injury, the court determines the level of responsibility for each. If a defendant is found to be “jointly and severally” liable, they may be ordered to pay the full compensation to the injured party. This can happen regardless of the level of fault the defendant shares with others.

For example, imagine a car accident where two drivers are at fault. If one of the drivers has limited insurance or assets, the other may be required to cover all damages. Once the paying defendant covers the full amount, they may seek reimbursement from the other responsible parties.

How Does This Impact Your Case?

In cases where joint and several liability applies, the injured party may receive full compensation for their injuries, even if one defendant cannot pay. However, this legal structure places the burden on the paying defendant to pursue others for their fair share.

It is crucial to work with a legal team who understands how joint and several liability can affect your compensation. If multiple parties are involved in your injury, your attorney can help ensure that you are compensated fairly and guide you through the complexities of this type of case.

Why Hire Fielding Law?

At Fielding Law, we have the knowledge and experience to navigate complex liability issues. Whether your case involves one responsible party or several, we are here to advocate for your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Our empathetic team takes the time to understand the unique details of your situation, helping you every step of the way. Fielding Law is dedicated to your success and will work tirelessly to secure the best outcome for you.

If you have questions about your case or need expert legal representation, call 833.88.SHARK today. We are here to help.

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

hand holding a phone that reads Car Insurance Co. View Policy

Is a Digital Insurance Card Valid in California?

By Car Accident

Car insurance is required for all drivers in California. If you are pulled over or involved in an accident, you must provide proof of insurance. But does that proof have to be a physical card, or can you use a digital version?

The good news is that California law allows drivers to show proof of insurance in either physical or digital form.

Digital Proof of Insurance is Accepted

California law recognizes electronic proof of insurance. This means you can show your insurance card on a smartphone or tablet. Most insurance companies offer mobile apps where you can access your policy details.

As of October 2022, 49 states and Washington, D.C., accept digital proof of auto insurance instead of a printed ID card. The only state that still requires a physical copy is New Mexico.

Traveling with Digital Insurance

If you plan to drive outside California, it is important to understand California car insurance requirements and how they compare to other states. When traveling through New Mexico, you should carry a printed copy to avoid any issues. Additionally, some rental car companies may require a physical insurance card, so having both options available is recommended.

Benefits of Digital Insurance Cards

  • Convenience – No need to carry a paper card

  • Easy Access – Available on your phone at any time

  • No Risk of Loss – Unlike a physical card, you cannot misplace a digital version

When You Might Need a Physical Copy

Although digital proof is legal in most places, some situations may still require a paper copy. Certain rental car companies and auto repair shops may ask for a physical insurance card. Keeping a printed copy in your glove box is a good idea.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you have been in an accident and are facing insurance complications, Fielding Law can help. Our team understands California car insurance requirements and will fight for your best outcome. Contact us today at 833.88.SHARK 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.

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