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Personal Injury

Tailgate bbq grill

Injured at Tailgate Party?

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

The Fall season brings a sense of renewal and tradition as many head back to school. It is a time with familiar celebrations like the excitement of tailgate parties before college football games. With all the fun, it is important to stay mindful of your safety and understand who might be responsible if someone gets hurt. As grills, games, and gatherings increase, so does the risk of slip and falls, vehicle accidents, and alcohol related injuries.  

What is a Dram Shop? 

  • A dram shop is a business that sells alcohol and may be legally responsible if they serve someone who poses dangers to others after drinking. 

What are Social Host Laws? 

  • These laws hold the person hosting the tailgate responsible if they knowingly provide alcohol to underage guests or know about underage drinking on site. 

Common Misunderstandings of Tailgate Party Injury 

If you or a loved one is injured due to someone’s irresponsible drinking, many people assume the intoxicated individual is solely responsible. However, others — such as the bar, restaurant, or party host who served them — could also be legally responsible. You may be able to pursue a claim not just against the drunk individual, but also against the business or host who served them.  

Documenting the Scene 

After a tailgate party injury—as with all accidents— documenting the scene is essential. The details you write down shortly after the accident can make a significant difference in building a strong case. Here are a few things to document: 

  • Date and time of the incident  
  • Location of the tailgate  
  • The specific type of accident that occurred  
  • Description of all the non-visible injuries  
  • Photos of the visible injuries  
  • Who was involved, and if there were any witnesses  
  • The company or the name of the individual who was giving out the alcohol  

Why Hire Fielding Law 

Party, tailgating accidents can turn a sharp turn south when alcohol is involved. These situations can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when there are unanswered questions about who is liable. At Fielding Law, we understand the emotional toll an accident can take on a person. Our priority is to carry the legal burden so you can fully focus on healing. We are here to support you. Reach out to us for your free consultation today to see if you have a claim.  

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

September 16, 2025
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Navy blue gradient background with a Fielding Law Shark Jaw logo

CAOC Membership Strengthens Advocacy

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

Clark’s Commitment to Justice

At Fielding Law, we believe in advocacy that protects individuals and families. Clark H. Fielding shows that commitment through his membership in the Consumer Attorneys of California (CAOC). CAOC protects the legal rights of consumers and ensures access to justice. With this membership, Clark gains tools to fight powerful insurance companies and corporations for clients injured because of negligence.

Why CAOC Matters for Clients

CAOC unites attorneys across California who represent plaintiffs in personal injury cases. Membership gives Clark:

  • Advanced legal education and training

  • Updates on California laws and regulations

  • A network of skilled trial attorneys who share strategies and insights

  • A voice in state advocacy to keep laws strong for injured people

These resources allow Clark to build stronger cases and pursue better results for clients.

Leadership Through Community

Clark’s CAOC membership goes beyond professional growth. It shows his dedication to the legal community and to protecting consumer rights. By staying engaged with CAOC, he continues to learn, connect, and fight for the people who trust Fielding Law after an accident.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Finding the right attorney after an accident can feel overwhelming. At Fielding Law, clients are never treated like case files. Each person deserves compassion, guidance, and strong legal advocacy. Clark’s CAOC membership means clients work with a lawyer who combines empathy with skill, backed by a community of professionals who share his commitment to justice.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury, contact Fielding Law today or call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a personal injury attorney who will fight for you.

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

September 15, 2025
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Scott McDonald in the middle of a virtual mediation

Virtual Mediations Made Easy

By Personal Injury

Scott McDonald in the middle of a virtual mediationWhat Are Virtual Mediations?

Virtual mediations are meetings held online to help resolve legal disputes without going to court. These meetings typically involve both parties, their attorneys, and a neutral mediator. With video conferencing tools, mediation can take place from the comfort of your home.

Virtual mediations are not only convenient but also cost-effective. They reduce travel time, scheduling conflicts, and the stress of being in a courtroom setting. Many clients find it easier to speak openly in their own environment, which helps move negotiations forward.

How Virtual Mediations Help Personal Injury Clients

Personal injury cases can already feel overwhelming. Adding court appearances only increases that stress. Virtual mediations provide a calm, private space to find fair solutions.

These mediations are especially helpful in:

Benefits of Virtual Mediation

Many clients choose virtual mediation for the following reasons:

1. Flexibility
You can attend from nearly anywhere. All you need is a stable internet connection.

2. Privacy
Sensitive matters remain confidential without the pressure of a courtroom.

3. Time-Saving
Sessions are often quicker than in-person mediations.

4. Reduced Costs
No travel or parking fees. Fewer delays mean lower legal expenses.

5. Lower Stress
People feel more relaxed and willing to talk when at home.

How It Works

The process of virtual mediation is simple:

  1. Your attorney schedules the session with all involved parties.

  2. You receive a secure link to join via video.

  3. The mediator listens to both sides and helps guide the conversation.

  4. The goal is a mutual agreement without trial.

Virtual mediations can still be powerful and productive. They allow each person to feel heard in a calm setting.

Why Hiring the Right Firm Matters

When navigating something as important as a personal injury claim, you deserve a team that treats you with care and respect.

Fielding Law listens. We take time to understand your story and help you prepare for mediation with confidence. Our attorneys are experienced in both in-person and virtual settings. Our team will guide you through the process with professionalism and compassion.

Why Choose Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, you are never just a case number. We take your situation seriously and offer solutions that make sense for your needs. Whether it is a car accident or a more complex wrongful death claim, our team is ready to support you.

We combine legal knowledge with genuine kindness. Our goal is not just to win — it is to help you move forward. We understand how life-changing these moments can be. You can trust us to show up prepared and present.

If you are ready to talk about your case or ask questions, call 833.88.SHARK today.

We are here to help you feel heard, valued, and supported — every step of the way.

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

September 12, 2025
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OCTA bus on the road at night time

Did You Know OCTA Does Not Have UM/UIM for Riders?

By Bus Accident, Car Accident, Personal Injury

What Happens if You Are Injured on an OCTA Bus?

Passengers injured while riding an Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus are often surprised to learn that OCTA does not provide uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. This becomes a serious issue when a negligent third-party driver causes a crash and lacks adequate insurance.

OCTA is a public transit agency that self-insures against liability, but that coverage only applies in limited situations—primarily when OCTA itself is responsible. It does not cover situations where a third-party driver is at fault and lacks insurance.

What This Means for You as an Injured Passenger

If you were injured in a bus crash and the at-fault driver had no insurance—or not enough—you may not be able to recover compensation through OCTA. You cannot file a UM/UIM claim through OCTA because that protection is not available to passengers.

You may feel stuck, but you still have options. Your recovery may depend on your own insurance policy, identifying all liable parties, and navigating strict rules for filing claims against government agencies. That is where legal experience can make a difference.

Your Options After an OCTA Passenger Accident

If you were injured as a passenger in a crash involving an OCTA bus, here is what you can do:

  • Review Your Own Auto Policy
    If you carry UM/UIM coverage, it may apply—even if you were not in your own vehicle. You could be covered as a named insured or a resident relative.

  • File a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver
    If the third-party driver had insurance, you can pursue a personal injury claim directly against their policy.

  • Investigate Fault by OCTA
    If the bus driver caused or contributed to the crash, or if there were safety failures (like poor maintenance), you may be able to file a claim against OCTA. These claims are time-sensitive and must follow strict procedures under California’s Government Claims Act.

  • Talk to an Attorney Immediately
    Without UM/UIM through OCTA, your path to compensation may be complex. Speaking with a lawyer can help you avoid delays, protect your rights, and identify every possible source of recovery.

Why Hire Fielding Law

When public transportation accidents happen, especially those involving UM/UIM gaps, the legal path is not always clear. At Fielding Law, we understand the frustration and confusion passengers experience after an OCTA accident. Our experienced team is ready to help you sort through your options and build a strategy that fits your case.

We treat every client with empathy and respect while delivering aggressive representation where it matters most.

You do not have to figure this out on your own. 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.

September 11, 2025
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Doctor looking at a brain scan after a concussion injury

Beginner’s Guide to a Concussion

By Brain Injury (TBI), Personal Injury

Suffering a head injury can be a disorienting and scary experience. Whether it is from a slip and fall, car accident, or another personal injury, they should never be ignored. At Fielding Law we want to ensure that you have all the resources to best approach a concussion and know how to work through recovery while receiving proper legal help.

What is a Concussion?

A type of traumatic brain injury caused by a jolt, bump or blow to the head, or even a hit to the body that causes the brain to move inside the skull. It can feel frightening, but with proper care, support, and rest, most people recover well and return to their normal activities.

Signs You Might Need a Concussion Injury Attorney

If your concussion was caused by someone else’s negligence, watch for these signs that it may be time to seek legal representation:

  • Persistent Headaches—Ongoing pain or pressure in your head that does not go away.
  • Feeling “Foggy/Dazed”—You have difficulty thinking clearly, concentrating, or not feeling quite like yourself.
  • Memory Loss—You struggle to remember things before or after the injury, or general forgetfulness.
  • Vomiting—Throwing up more than once and feeling sick to your stomach.
  • Sensitivity to Light or Noise—You might feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed to bright lights or loud sounds.
  • Sleep Disturbances—You struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep.

What Not to Do After

It is important to give your brain the rest it needs after a concussion. Activities that require a significant amount of mental or physical effort like studying, working, physical exercise, or using your phone, can worsen symptoms. Giving your brain time to rest helps the healing process. It might be hard to pause your typical routine, but taking this time to rest is a great way to support your recovery.

Steps After an Injury

If you suspect a concussion, take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:

  1. Call 911 —Get help immediately and ensure a report is filed.
  2. Seek Medical Attention  —Even if symptoms seem minor, a medical evaluation is crucial.
  3. Document Everything—Take photos and videos of the scene. Write down what happened while it is fresh.
  4. Stay off Social Media—Avoid sharing any details publicly, which could hurt your case.
  5. Do Not speak With the Other Party’s Insurance—Do not speak to the insurance company before talking to us with the other party’s insurance.
  6. Contact Fielding Law—Our team can guide you from the start.

You Need a Concussion Injury Attorney In Your Corner

At Fielding Law, we are here to support you through your post-concussion journey. Our team is here to stand by you and provide not only personalized care but expertise, and legal representation. Call us at 833.88.SHARK for your free consultation today. We are here when you need us the most.

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

September 8, 2025
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Outside of Fielding Law office in Irvine California

Best Avvo-Rated Lawyers You Can Trust

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

When you face a personal injury, choosing the right attorney is crucial. At Fielding Law, we guide clients through complex legal processes while advocating for the compensation they deserve. Our attorneys combine expertise, compassion, and client-focused service to achieve results.

Clark and Ryan. Free Consultation

Left to Right: Clark H. Fielding, Ryan W. Cooper

Clark H. Fielding, founding principal, has maintained his Superb rating on Avvo since 2015, along with his Client’s Choice ranking since 2015, reflecting long-standing excellence and consistent client satisfaction. Ryan W. Cooper, senior attorney, has held his Superb rating on Avvo since 2020 and his Client’s Choice ranking since 2019, demonstrating his dedication and commitment to clients. Together, they are recognized as among the best Avvo-rated lawyers.

Why Choosing the Best Avvo-Rated Lawyers Matters

Working with a highly rated Avvo lawyer ensures you receive:

  • Experienced guidance for personal injury cases in California and Arizona

  • Clear communication and personalized attention throughout your case

  • Strong advocacy and strategic handling of complex claims

  • Recognition from clients and peers for professionalism and results

Clark’s and Ryan’s long-standing Superb and Client’s Choice rankings demonstrate that they are trusted, reliable, and committed to achieving the best outcomes possible for their clients.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we are dedicated to improving the lives of each client through ethical and effective representation. With Clark H. Fielding and Ryan W. Cooper leading the team, clients receive personalized support, careful case investigation, and assertive advocacy while focusing on their recovery.

For trusted representation from some of the best Avvo-rated lawyers, call 833.88.SHARK today to schedule a consultation with Fielding Law.

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

September 5, 2025
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Massage therapist helping align a patient after a spinal injury

Dysfunction After Spinal Injury: What to Watch For

By Personal Injury, Spinal Cord Injury

Dysfunctions after spinal injury often go beyond mobility issues. They can affect critical bodily functions and senses, greatly impacting quality of life. When reviewing medical records, these dysfunctions are key indicators of the injury’s severity.

Sexual Dysfunction and Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control

One of the most serious dysfunctions after spinal injury is the loss of sexual function or control over bladder and bowel movements. These dysfunctions signal nerve damage that affects autonomic body functions:

  • Sexual dysfunction can deeply affect relationships and emotional well-being.

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control may require ongoing medical care, such as catheterization or surgery.

These dysfunctions are red flags in medical records and carry significant weight in injury claims.

Sensory Loss and Impairments

Damage to the spinal cord can also cause sensory deficits, another important category of dysfunctions after spinal injury. Harm to any of the five senses—touch, sight, hearing, taste, or smell—is a serious indicator of injury extent:

  • Loss of touch or pain sensation increases risk of injury from numbness.

  • Impaired vision or hearing may stem from related nerve damage.

  • Changes in taste or smell affect appetite and daily life.

Proper documentation of these sensory losses is crucial for a full evaluation of your injury.

Why Dysfunction Signs Are Important in Your Case

Medical proof of dysfunctions after spinal injury like sexual dysfunction, bladder or bowel control loss, and sensory impairment helps demonstrate:

  • The severity and permanence of your injury

  • The impact on your daily life and independence

  • The need for ongoing medical care and support

Highlighting these dysfunctions strengthens your claim and increases the chance of fair compensation.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand how devastating dysfunctions after spinal injury can be. Our experienced team works closely with medical experts to review your records and prove the full extent of your injuries. We fight for your right to proper compensation and care.

Call 833.88.SHARK anytime for a free, no-obligation consultation available 24/7.

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

September 3, 2025
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open books on a table

Terms to Know in Personal Injury

By Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Car Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Public Entity

Personal Injury law can seem unnerving at first, especially if it is your first time going through the process. Following an accident that was not your fault, it is completely natural to feel uncertain or overwhelmed about what comes next. That’s why we have created this simple guide to help you understand some of the key terms in personal injury law. Our goal is to make things clearer and help you feel more confident as you move forward in the legal process. Even a basic understanding of terminology can help the path feel a bit more approachable and less overwhelming.

Personal Injury

Negligence

  • Failure to take proper care or act with a level of caution that then results in the harm or damage to another person.
  • Example: A driver is texting while driving and runs a red light, hitting another car. The driver has failed to follow traffic laws and pay attention.

Plaintiff

  • You! The party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a complaint against another party. They are the one bringing the legal action and seeking a remedy for damages, and who we as Fielding Law represent.

Defendant

  • Them! The person, company or organization being blamed or sued in a legal case, whichever party is believed to have acted wrongfully.

Claim

  • When someone seeks legal justice for harm they’ve experienced, often because they are trying to find support, accountability, and sense of closure.

Liability

  • Being legally responsible for causing an accident or harm. They are responsible for covering medical bills, lost wages, or other costs after an accident.

Compensation

  • Money or support that someone receives after being hurt or harmed because of someone else’s actions or negligence. This helps cover things like medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Medical Lien

  • Money given to someone who has been hurt or suffered a loss because of another person’s actions.

How Fielding Law Can Guide You

At Fielding Law, we are committed to more than just guiding you through the legal terms. We are here to make sure you feel supported and understood throughout the entire process. If you or a loved one has any questions or concerns, please contact us at 833.88.SHARK. Your peace of mind matters to us and we want you to feel empowered in moving ahead.

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

September 2, 2025
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flag on a boat

Labor Day Safety Matters

By Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Burn Injury, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Wrongful Death

Injuries on Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day should be a time of rest and celebration. Families in California and Arizona often attend parades, host backyard barbecues, or travel for a last summer getaway. Unfortunately, holiday festivities can create dangerous conditions. When people act carelessly, serious accidents may occur. Labor Day safety is important, but if you were injured because someone else was negligent, you may need legal support.

Common Holiday-Related Accidents

Road Trips and Travel

Holiday weekends often bring heavier traffic. Distracted or impaired drivers increase the risk of serious car, truck, or motorcycle crashes.

Rideshare Accidents

With more people using services like Uber and Lyft during the holiday, rideshare accidents may occur. Victims can face complex insurance issues when injured as a passenger or in another vehicle.

Boating Accidents

Holiday weekends fill lakes and rivers with recreational boaters. Operator inexperience, intoxication, and overcrowded waterways often lead to serious boating collisions.

Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accidents

Jet skis and other PWCs are popular on long weekends. High speeds and reckless operation can cause severe injuries in collisions or ejections.

Parades and Public Gatherings

Large crowds can create unsafe conditions. Pedestrian accidents, trampling, or slip and fall injuries may happen when safety measures are not followed.

Barbecues and Backyard Parties

Premises liability accidents can occur at private gatherings. Guests may suffer burns, slip and fall injuries, or dog bites when property owners fail to provide a safe environment.

Firework Incidents

Fireworks are a tradition during Labor Day weekend. Mishandling them can cause severe burns, vision damage, or traumatic injuries.

Pools and Water Activities

Drownings and near-drowning accidents are a tragic risk at parties or community pools. Lack of supervision or safety equipment often contributes to these accidents.

Labor Day Safety Tips

Even with the risks, there are ways to reduce the chance of an accident.

Driving Safety

Use a designated driver, stay alert on the road, and allow extra time for traffic.

Hosting Safety

If you are hosting, secure walkways, monitor grills and fire pits, and provide a safe space for guests.

Firework and Pool Safety

Follow local firework regulations, supervise children near water, and require life jackets during boating or pool activities.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If your holiday weekend ended with an injury, you do not need to face the aftermath alone. Fielding Law is here to provide guidance, support, and advocacy. Our team listens to your story, investigates the cause of your accident, and works to hold the negligent party accountable. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an injury brings, and we are committed to standing by your side.

Call 833.88.SHARK today for a free consultation with Fielding Law.

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

August 29, 2025
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robot hand holding a glass globe

Can AI Replace Lawyers?

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Sexual Assault & Abuse, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Can You Replace a Lawyer With AI?

Artificial intelligence tools like Chat GPT are gaining popularity. They can draft documents, explain legal concepts, and summarize laws. Some people now believe they can replace a lawyer with AI and handle legal issues on their own. This is misleading and risky. Legal cases require human advocacy, judgment, and compassion that AI cannot provide.

What AI Can and Cannot Do

AI Can:

  • Explain general legal ideas and procedures

  • Summarize statutes and regulations

  • Draft basic templates or documents

  • Suggest broad next steps

AI Cannot:

  • Provide personalized advice specific to your case

  • Investigate evidence or interview witnesses

  • Navigate complex California or Arizona laws

  • Represent you in court or negotiate with insurers

  • Offer strategy, empathy, or advocacy

Attempting to replace a lawyer with AI may result in missed deadlines, weak claims, or reduced compensation.

What Fielding Law Provides That AI Cannot

Personalized Legal Guidance

Our attorneys study every detail of your case and create strategies tailored to your circumstances.

Thorough Investigation

We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build strong claims that AI tools cannot manage.

Negotiation and Advocacy

We handle insurance companies and opposing parties with proven negotiation skills and legal experience.

Courtroom Representation

If needed, we fight for you in court, file motions, and adjust strategies in real time.

Compassionate Support

We understand how stressful injuries are. Our team provides clear communication and empathy throughout the process.

Why Real Lawyers Matter

Legal representation requires strategy, adaptability, and human insight. Trying to replace a lawyer with AI leaves you without proper protection.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we combine experience, compassion, and skill to protect your rights. We fight for fair compensation and support clients every step of the way. Technology can assist, but it cannot replace a real lawyer.

Call 833.88.SHARK today for a Free Consultation and experience the difference of true legal advocacy.

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

August 29, 2025
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