Speak To Attorney Now
(707) 422-1202
SPEAK TO ATTORNEY NOW(707) 422-1202
Speak To Attorney Now
(707) 422-1202 SPEAK TO ATTORNEY NOW(707) 422-1202
The truth is that many attorneys lack the passion, experience and ability to fully represent the interests of their clients in a personal injury matter. That is, in order to receive the full value for your injuries and damages, it is imperative that you find a personal injury attorney who has your best interests in mind. If you do, chances are that you will have a long and beneficial relationship.
When and if you are injured through the negligence of another, these are some of the qualities you should look for in an accident attorney:
So, now that you know the qualities to look for, how do you get this type of information. First, remember to have a healthy bit of skepticism. Personal Injury attorneys are trying to sell themselves. Yes they are professionals, and yes they are for the most part hard working, but they are in business and there is a tremendous amount of competition. Trust what the attorney tells you, but try to verify.
Here are the 13 killer questions to ask of every personal injury attorney.
There is something to be said for youth and enthusiasm, but there is also a lot to be said for experience. After years of practice, I can honestly say that I am not the same attorney I was when I started and like a fine wine I have improved with age. This is not the be all and end all. Some attorneys who have been practicing for years are simply bored with what they do and have lost their passion. This is just an indicator of what depth of experience the attorney has.
This is a red flag. There may be a very good reason why an attorney has had their license suspended or revoked. If so, ask about the situation. What caused it and how has the situation been fixed? Trust your gut and it the explanation doesn’t ring true, then it’s time to find someone else.
Just because you have been practicing patent law for 20 years doesn’t mean you know a lot about personal injury. And it is not enough that you have been representing insurance companies for 15 years. There is a world of difference between defending a personal injury case and representing the injured victim. You may get some insight into how a case should be handled, but the only true way to become a great trial attorney is to actually be in the trenches and fight for justice.
My mother once told me it is better to be an expert in one area than a jack of all trades. If an attorney is dedicated to the representation of injured victims he or she will have very little time for anything else. The quest for justice for injured people is time consuming. Dealing with other areas of the law and being knowledgeable about each individual area is exhausting. I would rather be great at one thing then good at many. When it comes to my attorney, I want him to be great at my case and care less about anything else.
There is a reason that personal injury attorneys are called trial attorneys. It’s because they are willing to go to court and find justice. If a personal injury attorney simply tries to negotiate every deal, then the insurance carriers will shortly figure this out and will low-ball every offer. That means that as the client you will not get full value for your damages. On the other hand, if your attorney has a successful track record, the insurance company will know and will not want to be the next victim in court. However, be wary of an attorney that says he has never lost. This means that he isn’t willing to go out on a limb and fight for every case. An attorney who has never lost has never experienced the anguish that comes with it and is unwilling to go to the ends of the earth to win for you. Having tried and lost cases, I can tell you it is an experience I do my very best not to relive. I will work myself to the bone to provide the very best representation so I never have to taste defeat again.
You want your attorney to be accessible and knowledgeable about your case. It is fine to have a paralegal or associate work on the case, but you are hiring the attorney for his experience, not his staff or underlings. If you are simply meeting with a suit and the case will be handed off to someone else, maybe you are talking to the wrong person. Why did you just spend twenty minutes going through the first five questions when the person answering the questions will not be handling your case?
There are lots of services that rate attorneys. Some are good, some not so good. A good attorney will be able to show you how he or she has been rated. However, be careful that the rating is independent of any payment. Anyone can pay to be in the “Top 10 Attorneys” list. It is another matter to not be able to buy your way to the top. In addition, you should be careful that the attorney is not just under the umbrella of a firm and given the rating by proxy. A law firm can have great attorneys and poor attorneys. You want your attorney to be great.
There must be hundreds of trial lawyer associations. Attorneys, like all professionals can simply pay dues to be a member of an organization. Such things are in reality meaningless. On the other hand, active participation in an organization shows a degree of concern and interest. Does the attorney actively participate on the Boards or Associations or committees of trial lawyer groups? Does she work for organizations that support areas of interest in the community? For example does the attorney work for Mothers Against Drunk Drivers, or similar community based organizations. Hopefully, the attorney does not finish her day at work and then just go home. Hopefully, the attorney gives back to the community.
If an attorney is good, then his former clients should speak well of him. After years of practice, I have many former clients who have returned, and more importantly have sent me their friends and relatives to represent. These former clients are obviously pleased with the representation provided and will be happy to speak to potential clients. If an attorney cannot provide positive references, then there may be a real problem.
Just like references, testimonials from both peers and clients will give you an indication of how the attorney has done in the past. Some attorneys are great, but are not well liked by their peers. This is an area that should be evaluated. It may be jealousy, or it may be that the attorney is simply not a nice person. The absence of peer reviews is an indicator. In addition, former clients who have written reviews and testimonials are ready and willing to permanently say how they feel . This shows a level of trust and confidence that should be considered.
An attorney who has been practicing for many years has probably handled some difficult cases. These type of cases can be recognized for the effort that it takes to bring them from the beginning to trial or ultimate result. These types of cases are important because they let you know that this is an attorney that is willing to fight for you. Any decent attorney can handle your basic auto rear end case, but does this attorney have the ability to truly fight for the full value of your case? An attorney that has been recognized for his or her representation in the past is evidence of the extent to which this attorney will go to represent you. It is also an indication that the attorney will go out there and fight as opposed to just settling for the last offer.
It is not enough to simply give a client a check and say here you go. A good attorney will account for every last penny and will show you specifically where the funds came from and where they were spent. An attorney acts as a “fiduciary” that is one of trust. If the attorney will not fully account for the funds spent and received on your case then you may have an issue.
I view the attorney client relationship as a partnership. You and your attorney are working towards a common goal. This means that you will need to communicate and consult on numerous issues during the case. For me it means that in order to explain how you have been affected by the accident, I need to get to know you. I need to learn your story. Anyone can relate the facts of an accident and the medical history. It is quite another thing to be able to tell your client’s story and the consequences. This requires a real relationship and an attorney that doesn’t want anything from you won’t know your story. This attorney will not be able to fully understand the impact he accident has had on your life and therefore can truly negotiate a resolution for the full value of your damages.
If you have been injured in a truck, motorcycle, plane or car accident, or charged with a DUI or other criminal or traffic offense, call the lawyers at The Choyce Law Firm right now! Our experienced staff and attorneys are available to give you the answers you need to know immediately and can fight for justice and compensation with integrity and relentless enthusiasm.
It’s important to understand that there are many legal deadlines if you are injured or charged with a DUI. We are a local law firm with offices in Fairfield, CA & Sacramento, CA. We limit our practice to four areas of expertise: criminal defense, DUI defense, traffic ticket defense and personal injury. Don’t hesitate, to call our office at (707) 422-1202 or (916) 306-0636 for your free consultation!
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”
According to the Center for Decease Control (“CDC”) more than 4.7 million dog bites happen every year in the United Stated. While most of them do not require medical attention, however roughly 800,000 will seek medical treatment. About 400,000 of those who will seek medical attention are children.
While we do not regularly hear about dog bites. However, the ones that we do hear about are extreme, often horrific and involve children. The problem with young children is that have not learned to be weary of dogs because they do not know about their ability to attack, bite and even kill. Children do not understand the concept boundaries and do not pick up body language. To kids, dog is another toy they can squeeze, jump on and hub.
It is hard to get into the mind of an animal and put a finger on what exactly made the animal attack. But we have to remember that though they are domesticated the dog are animals. Often a child will grab and pull the dog’s fur, ear or tail causing the dog to bite. You must understand that dog cannot speak and biting is their way of letting you know – I don’t like it.
However, some attacks are unprovoked. Dogs attack children for the same reason they chase cats and squires. Children like to run causing the dog’s predatory instinct to take over the begin to chase and bite. Children are also small and an easy target. Children between ages 5 to 9 years old are most likely be bitten by a dog requiring medical treatment.
Next, the California Civil Code section 3342 is known as the California’s Dog Bite Statute. It is states in pertinent part that:
“(a) The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.”
However, just because the states that the owner of the dog is responsible for the injures his/her dog causes it does not mean that that owner will automatically pay you. Most of us don’t have thousands of dollars lying around just in case we cause someone to be injured. Similarly, dog owner’s do not put money into their savings bank account to pay people they might injure.
Even suing and obtaining a judgement again the dog owner might not put money in your pocket. Judgements for negligence may take years to collect or at worse be discharged in bankruptcy court if the dog owner files for bankruptcy.
So, to recover against a dog owner he or she must have insurance to cover the dog. Best available insurance is a home owner’s policy or renter’s insurance policy.
A Sacramento dog bite attorney can help you determine avenues which are best for you to recover payments for your medical bills resulting from a dog bite, possible corrective plastic surgery (if needed) and for pain and suffering. An attorney may hire a private investigator to go and speak with the home owner. Attorneys also have resources to determine if the dog owner is a home owner and whether the dog owner has insurance to cover the incident. Attorney will work with animal control to get the best result possible for you and your family.
Whether you or a loved one suffered one single bite, or a more devastating attack, you deserve a personal injury attorney who cares about your situation and is here to help make sure you are fully compensated for your injury. Our American system of law is set up only one way – to repay you for your loss with money. The insurance companies have one job – to pay you as little as possible and keep expenses as low as possible for their company. You must level the playing field by having an attorney on your side, who will fight to make sure justice is done.
Call Sacramento dog bite injury lawyer at The Choyce Law Firm for free consultation today. Our experienced personal injury lawyer is available to give you the answers you need to know immediately and can fight for justice and compensation with integrity and relentless enthusiasm.
It’s important to understand that there are many legal deadlines if you are injured.Give us a call at (916) 306-0636 to speak to a personal injury attorney in Sacramento who can handle your case and take the burden off your hands.
The Choyce Law Firm
1438 Del Paso Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 306-0636
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”
Sacramento criminal defense attorney Dione Choyce talks with Mike Duffy of ABC News 10 about the Death of George Floyd Trial.
If you have been issued a citation, charged a DUI or another criminal offense your liberty, your name and your reputation are at stake. It is important that you consult with an experienced Sacramento criminal defense attorney at The Choyce Law Firm as soon as possible.
Call our firm at (916) 306-0636 today for a FREE consultation with our experienced criminal defense attorneys.
The Choyce Law Firm
1438 Del Paso Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 306-0636
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”
It is no secret that driving under the influence of alcohol or any other intoxicating substance is illegal. Generally, if you get caught driving under the influence of alcohol, you may be charged pursuant to Vehicle Code section 23152(a) VC, and driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher per Vehicle Code section 23152(b) VC.
So the question arises, whether you can still get a DUI conviction of you get caught driving Tesla in autopilot mode. Some may argue that the autopilot is engaged and the intoxicated individual is technically not driving the vehicle. However, this argument fails.
Most recently, on December 1, 2018, the California Highway Patrol arrested a man who fell asleep behind the wheel of his Tesla Model S while the car was driving down the road in autopilot mode. The arresting officer was having hard time pulling the vehicle over because the driving was passed out and under the influence. CHP officer managed to stop the self-driving Tesla by pulling in front of it and slowing down. The Tesla vehicle slowed and came to a stop. Officers were able to wake the drive and place him under arrest.
Further, there are other instance of drivers operating their Tesla vehicles in autopilot mode while drunk. In August 2018 a California man was arrested for driving under the influence after he crashed into a San Jose fire truck while driving in autopilot mode. Also, in early 2018, another driver was arrested on the same charge after passing out in his Tesla vehicle while it drove in autopilot mode across the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge.
Though Tesla claims that its self-driving technology operates at a “safety level substantially greater than that of a human driver” it continues to instructs drivers to keep their hands on the wheel at all times in autopilot mode. The law also will hold you criminally guilty and civilly liable for driving drunk, even in autopilot mode.
Eventually, technology may advance to the point where we will rely on autopilots exclusively, and the law will surely adjust to the changing times; however, it is not that time yet.
Be safe! Do not drink and drive!
California law enforcement has been cracking down on DUI’s. Being convicted of a DUI can have serious implications on your life. The Choyce Law Firm is dedicated to fight your case and ensure any consequences are minimized if you are under the age of 21. Give us a call at (916) 306-0636 to speak to a Sacramento criminal attorney.
If you have been issued a citation, charged a DUI or another criminal offense your liberty, your name and your reputation are at stake. It is important that you consult with an experienced Sacramento criminal attorney at The Choyce Law Firm as soon as possible.
Call our firm at (916) 306-0636 today for a FREE consultation with our experienced Sacramento criminal attorney.
The Choyce Law Firm
1438 Del Paso Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 306-0636
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”
The Choyce Law Firm, established in 2005 by Dionne E. Choyce, is a traffic, criminal defense and personal injury law firm that specializes in traffic tickets, traffic accidents and DUIs but handles serious criminal cases as well.
Choyce describes his team of local attorneys as “personable and aggressive” in the service of their clients.
“We are results-oriented and have obtained an excellent track record of results for our clients. With over 15 years of experience handling cases throughout Northern California, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional legal service no matter what,” the company’s website states. “Whether you’re facing a murder charge or fighting a traffic ticket, the lawyers at The Choyce Law Firm are on your side. We dedicate the time, resources and commitment to treating our clients with utmost respect, dignity and compassion during such a difficult time.”
Choyce’s courtroom development began at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, where he helped lead the McGeorge trial competition team to a regional championship in the American Trial Lawyers Association Competition.
After graduating from law school, Choyce went to work for the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office in Oakland, where he gained extensive courtroom experience prosecuting all phases of criminal cases, including jury trials, felony preliminary hearings, juvenile felony trials as well as misdemeanor and felony law and motion hearings before entering private practice.
Choyce received his undergraduate degree in English (with honors) from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. He then went on to receive his graduate degree from Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He earned his law degree from the University of Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento.
If you have been injured in a truck, motorcycle, plane or car accident, or charged with a DUI or other criminal or traffic offense, call the lawyers at The Choyce Law Firm right now! Our experienced personal injury lawyer is available to give you the answers you need to know immediately and can fight for justice and compensation with integrity and relentless enthusiasm.
It’s important to understand that there are many legal deadlines if you are injured or charged with a DUI. We are a local law firm with offices in Fairfield, CA & Sacramento, CA. We limit our practice to four areas of expertise: criminal defense, DUI defense, traffic ticket defense and personal injury. Don’t hesitate, to call our office at (707) 422-1202 for your free consultation!
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”
Getting attacked by a dog can cause a lot of serious injuries that can lead to physical, emotional and financial suffering. California has a strict liability statute which means the owner of the dog is held responsible the moment a bite occurs.
But what happens if the dog is part of a government entity? The first thing you should do if you get attacked by a dog, is contact an experienced attorney who can evaluate your case and look to see what the best option is.
Police departments across California use K9 unites to assist in law enforcement. Dogs are extremely intelligent and can help detain a suspect, pursue a suspect, identify a suspect by his scent, detect illegal substances, deter crime, protect officers and control crowds. K9 units are specifically trained to not severely harm individuals, including avoiding any bites in areas such as the neck, face or spinal cord. Although, for the most part government agencies are immune from dog attacks by K9 units, there are times when police dogs attack the wrong person or are not trained in a proper way making them liable in certain situations. Again, the best way to deal with any dog attack is by contacting an experienced personal injury attorney with knowledge and expertise in government entities.
California civil code section 3342 states that no one can bring a lawsuit upon a government entity using a dog in any of the following:
Bite incidents needs to be thoroughly reviewed to determine whether the dog was necessary, the handler issued the correct commands, and the use of force was justified. It’s also important to note down information such as: the severity of the crime, the behavior of the victim, the personal characteristics of the victim such as race and ethnicity should be tracked to determine whether dogs are used against certain people and not others.
Police dogs are extremely dangerous due to the way they were trained. Dogs are taught a bite-and-hold technique for subduing individuals suspected of crimes. This type of technique applies a greater force which results in more serious injuries, including deep puncture wounds, severe crush injuries, large tissue avulsions and lacerations, wounds necessitating surgical debridement, bony injuries ranging from cortical violations to displaced fractures, neurovascular damage and other wounds prone to infections. If you’ve suffered an injury from a police dog, contact a personal injury attorney in Sacramento at The Choyce Law Firmimmediately.
California’s strict liability statute for dog bites, outlined in California Civil Code Section 3342, holds dog owners automatically liable for injuries caused by their dogs. Under this law, if a dog bites someone in a public place or when the victim is lawfully on private property, the owner is responsible for any resulting damages, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any risk.
Strict liability means that a dog owner cannot avoid liability by claiming they were unaware of their dog’s aggressive tendencies or that the dog had never bitten anyone before. This law is designed to protect victims by ensuring they can seek compensation for their injuries without needing to prove that the owner acted negligently. The statute applies solely to dog bites and does not cover other injuries that a dog might cause, such as those resulting from being knocked over or scratched.
Victims of dog bites in California can generally pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. California’s strict liability law reflects a strong commitment to public safety, holding pet owners accountable for their animals’ actions and offering clear recourse for bite victims.
Whether you or a loved one suffered one single bite, or a more devastating attack, you deserve an attorney who cares about your situation and is here to help make sure you are fully compensated for your injury. Our American system of law is set up only one way- to repay you for your loss with money. The insurance companies have one job – to pay you as little as possible and keep expenses as low as possible for their company. You must level the playing field by having an attorney on your side, who will fight to make sure justice is done.
Give us a call at (916) 306-0636 to speak to a personal injury attorney in Sacramento who can handle your case and take the burden off your hands.
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”
In California, as in most states, the crime of homicide is classified in various ways. Each classification has specific elements that define the crime. As with all criminal statutes, if a person accused of a crime has not been proven to have committed each specific element of that crime beyond a reasonable doubt, then the accused cannot be found guilty of the offense.
The distinctions between different types of homicide usually have to do with the “mens rea” — or state of mind—element involved in the crime, although other factors can also distinguish one homicide crime from another. For example, traditionally, first degree murder is a homicide in which the perpetrator carries out the murder with “malice aforethought” — or, with the cold-hearted and explicit and premeditated intent of causing death to the victim.
If you are changed with a crime in Solano County, you need an experienced criminal defense legal team on your site. Contact a Fairfield criminal attorney for consultation about your case.
In contrast, the term “manslaughter” is distinguished from murder because the intent element does not require the specific intent to cause death.
Traditionally, “voluntary” manslaughter is when an individual is gravely provoked in such a way as to induce a violent reaction, and ends up killing another human being “in the heat of passion,” rather than after any “cooling off” period in which that person should be able to regain his composure.
For “involuntary” manslaughter, however, a mindset of “recklessness,” “abandonment,” or “gross negligence” is sufficient to define the “mens rea” of the crime. That is, if one person kills another not out of any intent or desire to cause harm, but simply as a result of acting in a manner that is heedless of the likelihood of causing harm or death, the requisite state of mind element is met for manslaughter.
Vehicular manslaughter falls into the category of “involuntary manslaughter.” Manslaughter does not lie every time an individual is killed in an automobile accident; sometimes, vehicle accidents in which people are killed truly are truly accidents, and no crime is committed.
However, if a driver operates his or her vehicle—whether it’s an automobile, boat, motorcycle, or any other vehicle—in a reckless or grossly negligent way, and that conduct results in the death of another human being, they may be facing criminal charges for manslaughter.
California Penal Code Sections 191.5 and 192 are California’s vehicular manslaughter statutes. They can be a bit confusing to decipher, but essentially vehicular manslaughter is classified into three types:
“Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated” is when the driver of a vehicle ends up killing a human being in the course of and as a result of driving while intoxicated beyond legal limits as defined by specific portions of the California Vehicle Code (which are misdemeanors), and with gross negligence. “Gross negligence” implies extreme carelessness, without any regard for the consequences or the welfare of others. Gross vehicular manslaughter is punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
“Vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated” is when the driver of a vehicle kills of a human being in the course of and as a result of committing any of the same misdemeanors dealing with intoxication, but without gross negligence. Vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated is punishable by up to four years in prison, depending upon the circumstances, but normally the sentence is less than one year in a county jail.
An example of the distinction between “gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated” and “vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated” would be if, in the first case, a driver is so intoxicated or high on drugs that they cross over a highway divider at a high rate of speed and slam head-on into an oncoming car, and, in the second case, if they are driving over the legal speed limit, and the accident happens because they failed to react in a timely and responsible manner to a normal traffic situation, such as a light turning red.
“Vehicular manslaughter” not involving alcohol or drugs is the killing of a human being while operating a vehicle in the course of and as a result of: a) committing an unlawful misdemeanor other than being under the influence; b) driving dangerously; or c) intentionally causing an accident to achieve financial gain (such as collecting funds from an insurance policy).
California’s vehicular manslaughter statutes also provide that persons convicted of gross vehicular homicide while intoxicated, and who have previously been convicted of this or other specified crimes, can face a sentence of 15 years to life. In addition, if a driver’s conduct amounts to extreme “wantonness” or with a blatant disregard for the risk to human life, a prosecutor can assert that the driver’s “mens rea” amounts to “implied malice,” such that the individual can be charged with murder, rather than manslaughter. A conviction for murder in California carries a minimum sentence of 15 years to life.
As explained above, if you are charged with vehicular manslaughter in California, depending upon the facts of your case, you may be facing an extended period in prison. This means that it matters a great deal which specific crime you are charged with—and it matters whom you hire as your criminal attorney to represent you.
Fairfield criminal lawyer at our firm has extensive experience representing clients charged with vehicular manslaughter, and we will fight aggressively to preserve your rights and to preserve your freedom. Remember: for a defendant to be found guilty of a crime, every element of the crime must be shown and proved beyond a reasonable doubt. Our job is to find the weaknesses and gaps in the prosecution’s case, and to provide evidence that supports our client’s position so that the prosecution cannot prove its case. When we get to work for you, we may be able to get charges reduced or even dismissed, and, if we go to trial, you can be sure we will do our utmost to undermine the prosecution’s ability to meet its burden of proof in your case.
If you need Fairfield criminal lawyer to represent you in a vehicular manslaughter case, call The Choice Law Firm. Call (707) 422-1202 or you may use the online form right here on this website. Contact us today for a consultation.
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”