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Slip or Trip and Fall

A family and attorney speaking about an injured minor

Navigating Minor’s Compromise in Arizona

By Brain Injury (TBI), Car Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Public Entity, Slip or Trip and Fall

What Is a Minor’s Compromise?

A Minor’s Compromise in Arizona protects the rights and interests of children who suffer injuries in accidents or legal claims. Arizona requires court approval through what is known as an Arizona Minor’s Compromise, a process that ensures any settlement is truly in the child’s best interest.

Key aspects of this process include:

  • Court Approval: All settlements for minors must be reviewed and approved by the court to ensure fairness and adequacy.

  • Guardian Representation: A parent or legal guardian represents the minor in court and demonstrates that the settlement is in the child’s best interest.

  • Settlement Details: The court evaluates the proposed settlement, medical expenses, rehabilitation needs, and the long-term impact on the child’s life.

  • Distribution of Funds: Approved settlements may be placed in a structured or blocked account to protect the funds until the minor reaches an appropriate age or as directed by the court.

Common Situations for Minor’s Compromise

Minor’s Compromise is often used when a child suffers an injury due to someone else’s negligence. Examples include:

These cases often involve long-term medical or therapy needs, which the court considers when approving the settlement.

Structured Settlements vs. Lump-Sum Settlements

In many Minor’s Compromise cases, the court recommends structured settlements. This ensures that funds are available over time for ongoing care, education, or other needs. Lump-sum settlements may be allowed in certain cases but are carefully reviewed to protect the minor from mismanagement of funds.

Role of the Guardian ad Litem

In Arizona, a court may appoint a guardian ad litem (GAL) to advocate for the minor’s best interests. The GAL is an independent representative whose job is to ensure the child’s rights are fully protected throughout the legal process. They review the proposed settlement, evaluate whether it fairly covers current and future needs such as medical care or therapy, and make recommendations to the judge.

Think of the GAL as a dedicated advocate for your child in court. Even though parents or guardians are involved, the GAL focuses solely on what is truly best for the minor, helping ensure they receive the care and compensation they deserve.

Steps in the Minor’s Compromise Process

  1. Gather Necessary Documents: Collect medical records, accident reports, and settlement agreements.

  2. File the Petition: Submit the Minor’s Compromise petition to the appropriate court.

  3. Court Hearing: Attend the hearing, where the judge reviews the case to ensure the settlement is fair and adequate.

  4. Receive Court Order: Once approved, the court issues an order confirming the settlement and how the funds will be managed.

Why Timing Matters

It is important to consult a lawyer early in the process. Accepting a settlement without proper legal guidance could leave the child undercompensated, especially if long-term medical care or therapy is needed.

How Fielding Law Can Help

Navigating a Minor’s Compromise in Arizona can be complex. At Fielding Law, we provide experienced and compassionate guidance to ensure that your child’s best interests are protected. We investigate the circumstances of the injury, advocate for fair compensation, and help families understand the legal process.

If your child has been injured, call 833.88.SHARK 24/7 for a free consultation with an Arizona Minor’s Compromise lawyer. Our team is here to support your family and guide you through every step with care and clarity.

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

October 24, 2025
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Disneyland in the background with a Halloween wreath

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party Safety Tips

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

Enjoying Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party at Disneyland is one of the most anticipated seasonal events, offering trick-or-treating, themed entertainment, and photo opportunities with beloved characters. While the event is fun for all ages, the excitement and large crowds can create safety risks.

Common Risks at the Event

Even with strict safety protocols, attendees should be aware of potential hazards, including:

  • Slips, trips, and falls on wet or crowded pathways

  • Collisions with other guests or ride vehicles

  • Costume or accessory hazards, such as long capes or masks that obstruct vision

  • Fatigue, dehydration, or heat-related issues during long evenings

  • Children wandering or getting separated from caregivers

Practical Safety Tips

Follow these tips to keep your family safe while enjoying the event:

  1. Choose safe costumes – Make sure shoes fit well and costumes do not drag on the ground

  2. Stay hydrated – Bring water and take breaks throughout the evening

  3. Keep children close – Use ID bracelets and designate a meeting spot in case anyone gets lost

  4. Be mindful of crowds – Avoid pushing and watch for congested areas near popular attractions

  5. Use safe lighting – Glow sticks or reflective gear help keep children visible

  6. Plan ahead – Map out restrooms, first aid stations, and exit routes before the event

Legal Considerations

Even with precautions, accidents can still happen. Injuries may occur due to slips, falls, or negligence by staff or other guests. Disneyland and other event organizers have a responsibility to maintain safe conditions, and victims of preventable injuries may have legal options.

How Fielding Law Can Help

If you or a loved one suffers an injury during Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party, it is important to seek guidance as soon as possible. Fielding Law provides compassionate, knowledgeable support and can help investigate your case, gather evidence, and explain your legal options.

You can call 833.88.SHARK 24/7 for a free consultation to discuss your injuries, your rights, and potential compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Our team is available around the clock to provide guidance, answer questions, and help you take the next steps with confidence.

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

October 22, 2025
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People reaching through the door of a haunted house

Haunted House Legal Nightmares

By Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall, Wrongful Death

When Thrills Turn Into Injuries

Haunted houses are designed to scare, but no one expects to leave with a serious injury. From poorly lit stairwells to unsafe props, a night meant for fun can quickly become dangerous. If you are injured in a haunted house, it is important to understand your rights and know the steps to take to protect them.

Who May Be Liable for Haunted House Injuries

Haunted houses fall under premises liability law in both California and Arizona. The property owner, event operator, or even a third-party vendor may be held responsible if their negligence caused the injury. Examples include:

These hazards can result in severe injuries such as fractures, concussions, or emotional trauma.

When Other Guests Cause Injuries

Not every haunted house injury comes directly from unsafe conditions. Sometimes another guest may panic, run, and knock someone over. Event operators still have a duty to prepare for this foreseeable risk. Haunted attractions are designed to frighten people, so it is reasonable to expect that some visitors may run, push, or collide with others.

If the operator fails to provide adequate lighting, safe walkways, or staff to manage crowd movement, they may still be liable. For example, injuries can occur if groups are allowed to move too closely together or if paths are too dark and narrow for safe passage. Even when another guest caused the initial contact, the operator’s negligence in managing the environment may have contributed to the accident.

Liability Waivers: Do They Always Protect the Business

Most haunted houses require guests to sign liability waivers. These documents are meant to limit the property owner’s responsibility for injuries. However, a waiver does not give businesses permission to act negligently. In both California and Arizona, waivers cannot protect against gross negligence or willful misconduct. If an operator ignored obvious safety risks, you may still have a claim even if you signed a waiver.

What To Do If You Are Injured in a Haunted House

Taking the right steps immediately after an accident can strengthen your claim:

  1. Report the incident: Notify staff or management right away and request a written report.

  2. Document the scene: Take photos of where the injury happened, including any hazards or unsafe conditions.

  3. Gather witness information: Ask for names and contact details of anyone who saw what happened.

  4. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, a medical record can link the accident to your injuries.

  5. Avoid signing further documents: Do not sign statements or agreements beyond the initial waiver without legal advice.

Next Steps After a Haunted House Accident

Once you have reported and documented the incident, the next step is to speak with a personal injury attorney. An attorney can investigate liability, review the enforceability of the waiver, and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you were injured in a haunted house, Fielding Law can help. Our team understands the complexities of premises liability and how waiver laws apply in both California and Arizona. We provide compassionate, capable representation and will work tirelessly to hold negligent businesses accountable. Call 833.88.SHARK today to learn how we can help you pursue 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.

October 15, 2025
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Creepy person standing in the dark with a light behind them

Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights: I Signed a Waiver — Can I Still Make a Claim?

By Assault, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall

Understanding Waivers at Halloween Horror Nights

Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights is one of the most popular and thrilling Halloween events. Many attendees love the scares and immersive experiences. However, before entering, guests often must sign waivers or agreements meant to limit the park’s liability.

But what does signing a waiver really mean? Does it prevent you from making a legal claim if you get injured during the event?

What Is a Waiver?

A waiver is a legal document where you acknowledge certain risks and agree to give up the right to sue for injuries resulting from those risks. These are common at high-risk events, like haunted houses or extreme amusement park attractions.

Waivers Do Not Always Bar Claims

If negligence or misconduct caused your injury, an experienced Halloween Horror Nights injury lawyer can help determine whether you have a case despite signing a waiver. In California and Arizona, waivers generally do not protect companies from liability for:

  • Gross negligence (extreme carelessness or reckless conduct)

  • Intentional harm

  • Defective equipment or unsafe premises beyond assumed risks

If your injury was caused by the event’s negligence—such as poor maintenance, inadequate safety measures, or employee misconduct—a waiver may not fully protect Universal Studios.

Common Injuries at Halloween Horror Nights

While many visitors enjoy the excitement safely, injuries can and do happen. Some common types of injuries reported at Halloween Horror Nights include:

If you experienced one of these injuries or another harm during the event, a Halloween Horror Nights injury lawyer can help evaluate your case.

What Should You Do If You Are Injured?

If you were hurt at Halloween Horror Nights despite signing a waiver, it is important to:

A skilled lawyer can review your waiver and circumstances to determine if you still have a valid claim.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you or a loved one suffered an injury at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights, do not assume the waiver ends your legal options. Fielding Law has experience handling event injury claims in California and Arizona. We provide kind, capable guidance through this complex area of law. To discuss your case, 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.

October 13, 2025
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Golden Gate Bridge in California

How SB 82 California Law 2025 Could Impact the Injured

By Bicycle Accident, Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Slip or Trip and Fall, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Understanding SB 82 and the New California Laws

Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed SB 82 and several related bills intended to reduce costs and strengthen protections for California families. These new laws address issues such as rental housing, unfair fees, and consumer rights. While they are not specific to personal injury, they can influence how injured Californians manage expenses and protect themselves financially during recovery.

How SB 82 and Related Laws May Help the Injured

1. Limits on Hidden Fees
SB 82 and other new laws restrict hidden or surprise charges added to purchases or services. For injured individuals, this could mean more transparent billing when using delivery, repair, or transportation services. Avoiding unexpected fees can make it easier to manage finances while focusing on recovery.

2. Stronger Tenant Protections
New housing-related laws require landlords to provide basic appliances like stoves and refrigerators in rental units and offer more flexibility when tenants face delayed government benefit payments. For someone injured and temporarily unable to work, these protections can help maintain housing stability while waiting for insurance or disability payments.

3. Easier Contract Cancellations
The updates also allow homeowners to cancel certain home improvement or repair contracts through email or phone. This change protects injured individuals from being trapped in costly agreements if their financial situation changes during recovery.

4. Broader Consumer Protections
California expanded existing consumer laws to make it harder for businesses to mislead or overcharge customers. Injured people, who may depend more heavily on outside services during recovery, gain stronger legal protection against unfair practices.

What This Means for Injury Victims

SB 82 California law 2025 does not directly change personal injury law, but it reflects a growing effort to protect residents from unexpected costs. For people coping with an injury, these safeguards can make recovery more manageable by reducing financial stress and improving access to fair treatment in housing and business transactions.

If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, understanding your financial rights is only part of recovery. Legal representation can help ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we provide compassionate and capable legal help for those injured due to negligence in California and Arizona. Our team understands that recovery involves more than physical healing. Financial pressure, medical bills, and lost wages can make life overwhelming, and we are here to help you find stability and peace of mind.

Call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation about your injury.

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

October 7, 2025
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Two people in a pumpkin patch gathering pumpkins into a wagon

Injury at a Pumpkin Patch or Corn Maze?

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

Pumpkin patches and fall festivals are a favorite seasonal tradition in California and Arizona. Families enjoy hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking. While these events bring fun, they also create risks. Uneven walkways, poor lighting, and crowded paths can lead to an injury at a pumpkin patch that may require medical care and legal action. Understanding property owner responsibilities can help you protect your rights if you are hurt.

Common Hazards at Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes

Uneven and Unsafe Surfaces

Dirt paths, tractor ruts, wet leaves, and loose gravel can all cause slips and trips. Temporary walkways and dim evening lighting can make hazards harder to see.

Seasonal Attractions

Hay bales, inflatables, petting zoos, and wagons add to the festive atmosphere but can be dangerous if not secured or regularly inspected.

Crowd and Traffic Management

Crowded walkways can push visitors into unsafe areas. Vehicle traffic near pedestrian paths creates additional danger if not well controlled.

Property Owner Responsibilities

In both California and Arizona, property owners, operators, and event organizers are responsible for keeping visitors safe. This duty includes:

  • Inspecting the property before and during the event

  • Repairing or isolating dangerous areas

  • Providing adequate lighting and visible warning signs

  • Training staff to monitor and correct unsafe conditions promptly

When an event is held on leased property, both the landowner and the event operator may share responsibility for any injury at a pumpkin patch.

What to Do After a Pumpkin Patch Injury

If you are injured at a pumpkin patch or corn maze, the following steps can help protect your claim:

  1. Seek medical attention immediately.

  2. Take photographs of the hazard and surrounding area.

  3. Collect names and contact information from witnesses.

  4. Report the incident to event staff and request an incident report.

  5. Keep copies of all medical bills, lost wage records, and other related documents.

  6. Contact Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK for a free chat about the incident.

Time Limits and Comparative Fault

California and Arizona both require most personal injury claims to be filed within two years of the accident date. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to recover damages.

Both states follow comparative fault rules. This means that if you are found partially responsible for your injury, your compensation may be reduced, but you may still recover damages.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand that an injury at a pumpkin patch can have lasting effects on your health, finances, and well-being. Our caring and capable team investigates every detail, holds negligent property owners accountable, and works to secure the best possible result for each client.

If you or a loved one experienced an injury at a pumpkin patch or corn maze in California or Arizona, 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.

October 7, 2025
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someone riding a onewheel skateboard on a college campus

Onewheel Skateboard College Campus Accidents

By Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Public Entity, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall

For college students, navigating campus often requires creative transportation. One popular option is onewheel skateboards and electric unicycles. These self-balancing skateboards can be fun and convenient, but accidents happen and can leave riders or bystanders injured.

The Rise of Onewheel Skateboards on Campus

Depending on the model, onewheel skateboard can reach speeds between 16 and 25mph. They have a single, large tire at the center, and riders use their balance and body movements to control the board through pressure-sensitive pads. Features like battery life, lighting, and customization of your ride profile is all controlled by a smartphone app. Given the speed and unique control of these devices, it is very important that riders are confident before using a onewheel skateboard before bringing it onto a busy college campus.

Campus Hazards and Liability

There can be many hidden dangers when riding through a college campus that can harm you or loved ones when using onewheels. Some of these can include:

If the campus fails to maintain safe walkways, it could be liable for injuries under premise liability law. In some cases, the college campus may be responsible for maintaining safe conditions and could be liable for injuries.

Student Liability

Even if you do not own a onewheel, many of your classmates might. These students can be careless riders, disregard signage. They even can ignore signs of faulty breaks, drive aggressively in a crowd, and preform reckless stunts. If you are involved in a onewheel skateboard accident with another student, it is important to exchange contact information and document the incident, like a bicycle or scooter accident. If they are still learning how to use these devices safely, there are great risks of accidents.

How Fielding Law Can Help

Whether your accident was caused by poor campus maintenance or the negligent riding of a student, Fielding Law is here to support you every step of the way. We are committed to helping you heal physically and emotionally, because we know first-hand how life-altering these types of onewheel skateboard college campus accidents can be. Reach out whenever you are ready at 833.88 SHARK for your free consultation today.

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

October 6, 2025
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puddle of Grease Soap or Oil on pavement

Slipped on Grease, Soap, or Oil?

By Premises Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall

Slipped on grease, soap, or oil? You are not alone. These are some of the most common causes of falls in restaurants, grocery stores, parking lots, and gas stations. Property owners must take reasonable steps to clean up spills and post warning signs. When they fail to do so, innocent people get hurt. If this happened to you, preserving your clothing, shoes, and photo evidence could make the difference in your case.

Keep Your Clothes as Evidence

Slipping and falling in a public place is painful and disorienting—but what you do next could make or break your case. Whether it was grease from a kitchen, oil from a parking lot, or soap from freshly mopped floors, the substance you slipped in matters. Even more importantly, your clothing can hold key evidence.

After a fall, many people go home and wash their clothes. That is a mistake. Your clothing and shoes may hold residue, stains, or patterns that help prove what happened. These materials can support your claim that the property owner failed to maintain a safe environment.

How to Preserve Your Clothing

To protect the evidence, follow these simple steps:

  • Do not wash or clean your clothes or shoes

  • Place items in a paper bag—not plastic

  • Take clear photos of the clothing before storage

  • Avoid touching or brushing off the substance

Your clothing could help identify the slippery material and show how much was present. It may also indicate where and how the fall occurred.

Take Photos and Videos Right Away

If you can, document the area before leaving the scene. If you are injured and unable to do so, ask someone nearby to help. Photos and videos are powerful tools.

Be sure to capture:

  • The exact area where you fell

  • A close-up of the grease, soap, oil, or substance

  • Your shoes and clothing after the fall

  • A wide shot showing whether warning signs were posted

  • Contact information for any witnesses

  • Security cameras or nearby recording devices

This documentation can support your case and help your attorney prove that the property owner was negligent.

Understanding Liability in Arizona and California

Arizona and California both require property owners to keep their premises safe for visitors. That includes mopping spills promptly, posting visible warnings, and inspecting the area regularly. If an owner knew or should have known about a slippery substance and did nothing, they may be held legally responsible.

However, proving negligence requires strong, clear evidence—which is why preserving your clothing and documenting the scene are so important.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand how frustrating and overwhelming a slip and fall injury can be. You are dealing with pain, medical bills, and lost time—all because someone else failed to take proper care. Our team is here to help you rise together.

We treat each case with care, professionalism, and urgency. We are not a big, cold firm. We are focused on your recovery and your future.

Call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation about your injuries. Contact Fielding Law today to speak with a slip and fall lawyer who will stand up 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 30, 2025
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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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Man sitting at the edge of a bed touching his back and head from an injury

Living with Chronic Back Pain After a Fall

By Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury

Understanding Back Injuries from Falls

A fall might seem minor at first, but its effects can be life-altering. In both Arizona and California, we regularly see clients who suffer from chronic back pain after a slip and fall — especially if it is due to hazardous conditions in public spaces. The spine is delicate, and even a seemingly small incident can lead to serious damage such as herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or nerve impingement.

The Long-Term Impact of Chronic Pain

Chronic back pain is not just uncomfortable — it can be debilitating. Victims often struggle with basic mobility, loss of sleep, reduced ability to work, and a steep decline in quality of life. In some cases, chronic pain requires ongoing physical therapy, spinal injections, or even surgical intervention. These long-term needs place a significant financial and emotional burden on injured individuals and their families.

The Legal Path: Your Right to Compensation

If your back injury from a fall was due to another party’s negligence — such as a wet floor, broken staircase, or unsafe work environment — you may be eligible to pursue a personal injury claim. A successful claim can help cover:

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Ongoing care or assistive devices

Both Arizona and California recognize the right to pursue compensation in these situations, but strict deadlines and liability laws apply. That is why taking action quickly is crucial.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand that chronic back pain does not just affect your body — it affects your life. Our client-first approach ensures you feel supported every step of the way. We take the time to listen to your story, investigate the cause of your fall, and work with medical experts to build the strongest case possible.

From negotiation to trial, we fight for full compensation — not just for today, but for your future care as well. We also recommend having a dash cam if your fall occurred in a setting like a parking lot or work zone. Video evidence can be extremely valuable in proving fault.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you are living with chronic back pain from a fall, you do not have to navigate this journey alone. Contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK today. We are here to help you move forward with clarity, care, and confidence.

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

September 1, 2025
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