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Personal Injury

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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Person holding photo evidence in their hands

Why Preserving Evidence Matters

By Bicycle Accident, Personal Injury, Product Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall

Why Preserving Evidence Matters After an Injury

When you are injured due to someone else’s negligence, the details of what happened can disappear quickly. Cleanup crews may remove dangerous items. A store manager might mop up a spill. Or a friend might toss out a broken helmet thinking they are doing you a favor. That is why preserving evidence is one of the most important things you can do to protect your case.

Tangible items tell a powerful story. They can show what caused the accident, how the injury happened, and who may be at fault. Preserving evidence strengthens your ability to seek compensation and hold the responsible party accountable.

What to Save After an Accident

Every type of injury case is different, but some common examples of evidence to keep include:

Defective product claims:

  • The product itself, untouched and unrepaired

  • All packaging, warning labels, and instruction manuals

  • Your proof of purchase, such as receipts or online order confirmations

  • Clear photographs of the product and any visible damage

Bicycle accident claims:

  • The bicycle, even if it is completely destroyed

  • Helmet, gloves, or other damaged safety gear

  • Any video footage from cameras or nearby businesses

  • Clothing worn at the time, especially if torn or stained

Slip and fall cases:

  • The shoes you were wearing (do not clean or throw them away)

  • Photos of the location, including floor conditions, lighting, or signage

  • Any written reports made by store staff or property owners

  • Medical records that document your injuries

What to Avoid

It is easy to accidentally harm your claim without realizing it. Do not fix or replace damaged items before talking to a lawyer. Do not post photos or updates online that could be misinterpreted. And never send key items—like a broken product or piece of clothing—to the insurance company without legal guidance. Once evidence is lost or altered, it may be impossible to use it in your favor.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand that time matters in personal injury cases. Our legal team acts quickly to preserve evidence and secure expert analysis when needed. Whether your case involves a defective product, a bicycle accident, or a slip and fall injury, we are ready to build a strong claim on your behalf. From the very first call, we handle the legal stress so you can focus on healing.

If you or a loved one has been injured, call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law. Evidence fades, but with our help, your case will not.

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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Person laying on a table for physical therapy

Healing Through Trusted Physical Therapy Connections

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

Supporting Clients Beyond the Courtroom

At Fielding Law, we know that recovery after an accident is about more than a case result. Healing requires physical, emotional, and financial support. That is why we build strong connections with trusted professionals who can walk beside our clients on the road to recovery. For many, physical therapy after an accident is one of the most important steps to regaining health and independence.

Fielding Law team group photo with Scott Moncrief of ProSportBrunch and Learn with ProSport

Our team recently welcomed Scott Moncrief of ProSport Physical Therapy Performance for a Brunch and Learn session. Scott shared his expertise on how therapy helps accident victims rebuild strength, reduce pain, and prevent long-term complications. These opportunities allow our attorneys and staff to better understand the treatment process so we can guide clients toward the care they need.

Why Physical Therapy is Important After an Injury

The right physical therapy plan can make the difference between a difficult recovery and a successful one. After an accident, injuries often limit movement, create lasting pain, and disrupt daily life. Without proper treatment, some injuries may even worsen over time. Physical therapy plays a vital role in helping clients overcome these challenges:

  • Pain management: Targeted exercises and treatments can reduce pain without relying heavily on medication.

  • Restoring mobility: Therapy helps improve flexibility and range of motion so clients can return to normal routines.

  • Strength building: Injury can weaken muscles and joints, and therapy rebuilds strength safely.

  • Preventing long-term damage: Early treatment can keep small issues from turning into chronic problems.

  • Boosting confidence: Clients gain independence as they see progress in their recovery.

For many of our clients, physical therapy after an accident is not only about healing the body but also about regaining control and confidence after a difficult experience.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Our mission is to improve the lives of each client through ethical and efficient legal representation. That means fighting for fair compensation while also connecting you with trusted resources that support your healing. Whether it is partnering with respected physical therapists or offering compassionate guidance, Fielding Law is here to help you every step of the way.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence, call 833.88.SHARK today to speak with an experienced member of our team.

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

August 28, 2025
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alcohol on a wooden counter

What Is a Dram Shop?

By Car Accident, Personal Injury

A dram shop is a bar, restaurant, or business that serves alcohol. These laws allow injured people to hold establishments accountable when alcohol is served irresponsibly.

Each state handles dram shop liability differently. Both California and Arizona have unique laws that determine who can be held responsible and under what conditions.

Dram Shop Laws in California

California limits dram shop liability. Under Civil Code 1714, the person who drank the alcohol is usually responsible—not the person who served it. However, there are two important exceptions:

  • Serving Minors: A business may be liable if it knowingly serves alcohol to someone under 21 who later causes harm.

  • Serving Intoxicated Minors: A business that serves a clearly drunk minor can be held responsible if that minor causes a crash or injury.

So while California’s dram shop laws are strict, they do allow claims in cases involving underage drinking.

Dram Shop Laws in Arizona

Arizona provides broader protections for victims. According to A.R.S. § 4-311 and  § 4-312, a business can be liable if:

  • It knowingly serves alcohol to someone who is obviously drunk.

  • That person later causes injury or death.

In Arizona, bars and venues must stop serving guests who show signs of intoxication. If they continue, and harm follows, they can be held responsible.

Arizona does not usually hold social hosts liable. However, if a host knowingly serves alcohol to a minor, they may still face legal consequences.

Why Dram Shop Laws Matter

It is easy to blame only the drunk driver. But in some cases, a business played a role by overserving them. Dram shop laws allow victims to seek justice beyond the driver who caused the crash.

Holding a dram shop accountable can help victims:

Dram shop cases require clear evidence and a strong legal strategy. You must prove the establishment overserved alcohol or ignored obvious signs of intoxication.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we help victims of alcohol-related injuries find answers. We understand the differences between dram shop laws in California and Arizona. Our team investigates quickly and thoroughly to hold all responsible parties accountable.

Whether you were hit by a drunk driver or lost a loved one, we are here to help. We treat our clients with compassion and fight hard to protect their futures.

If you believe a dram shop played a role in your injury, contact Fielding Law or call 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.

August 27, 2025
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A Haboob or dust storm in the Arizona desert

Stay Safe During a Haboob

By Bicycle Accident, Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury

What is a Haboob?

A haboob is a powerful type of dust storm that often happens in Arizona, especially during the summer monsoon season. The word comes from the Arabic word habūb, meaning “blasting.” These storms form when strong winds rush out from a collapsing thunderstorm. As the winds spread out, they pick up dirt and dust from the desert floor and push it forward in a massive, rolling wall.

Haboobs can rise thousands of feet high and stretch miles wide. They move quickly, reducing visibility to almost zero and creating serious dangers for anyone outside, on the road, or on a bike. That is why learning haboob safety tips is so important if you live in Arizona.

Why Haboobs are Dangerous

  • Visibility can drop to less than a few feet in seconds

  • Roads become slick with dust, sand, or debris

  • Breathing can become difficult for those with asthma or other conditions

  • Flying objects may cause injuries

Knowing the right haboob safety tips can make a major difference if you are caught in one.

Safety Tips if You Are Walking

If you are on foot when a haboob arrives, protect yourself right away.

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth or mask to avoid inhaling dust

  • Protect your eyes with sunglasses or goggles if possible

  • Seek shelter inside a sturdy building

  • If no shelter is nearby, crouch low to the ground, cover your head, and wait for the worst part to pass

Safety Tips if You Are Driving

Drivers face some of the greatest risks in a haboob. Accidents are common because people panic or continue driving without being able to see.

  • Pull off the road as soon as possible

  • Turn off your lights and keep your foot off the brake so other drivers do not try to follow your taillights

  • Stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on until the storm passes

  • Avoid stopping in the middle of the road, which increases the chance of being rear-ended

Safety Tips if You Are Riding a Bike or Motorcycle

Cyclists and motorcyclists are especially vulnerable.

  • Dismount and move off the road immediately

  • Lay the bike down if necessary to prevent it from being blown over

  • Find shelter, or at least crouch low away from traffic and flying debris

  • Protect your mouth, nose, and eyes from dust

After the Haboob

Once the storm passes, use extra caution. Visibility may still be poor, and fallen trees, power lines, or debris may block roadways or sidewalks. Following haboob safety tips even after the storm can help reduce your risk of injury.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Haboobs can lead to serious accidents, especially on Arizona roads. If you or a loved one has been injured due to another driver’s negligence during or after a storm, Fielding Law is here to help. Our attorneys provide skilled, compassionate support and work to secure the compensation you deserve. Call 833.88.SHARK 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.

August 26, 2025
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