In a bustling city like Fresno, accidents are unfortunately common. Whether you or a loved one has been injured, it’s crucial to find a skilled personal injury lawyer to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Having the right attorney can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case.
After suffering an injury, the last thing you want to stress about is finding a trustworthy personal injury lawyer. You’re looking for someone who not only understands the law but is also dedicated to helping you reclaim your life post-accident.
So, what if you could easily find the leading personal injury attorney in Fresno without the hassle? Good news—the task is simpler than you might think! We have curated a list of the top 10 personal injury lawyers in Fresno, evaluated on their expertise in the field, success in case outcomes, professional reputation, and client interaction skills. This way, you can focus on your recovery, knowing you have access to the best legal support available.
Methodology
Rankmini’s methodology for finding the best personal injury lawyers includes evaluating factors such as legal experience, special licenses, certifications, ethics, and bar disciplinary measures. The model considers hundreds of data points, assigning weighted scores to narrow down top choices.
Public data from state bar associations, court records, and other sources inform these rankings. However, they may not include all relevant information about a lawyer’s skills and experience.
While the list highlights legal backgrounds, it doesn’t evaluate personalities or law knowledge. Establishing good rapport with your attorney is crucial during a potentially difficult legal situation. These rankings should serve as a starting point in your search for the right lawyer for your needs.
Best Personal Injury Attorneys in Fresno
This highlights the best personal injury lawyers in Fresno, known for their dedication to client success and exceptional legal services:
1. Jason S. Bell
CA Bar Association Status: Active
Year Admitted to CA Bar: 2001
Law School Attended: San Joaquin College of Law
Why They Made Our List: Born and raised in Fresno, Jason S. Bell has over 20 years of legal experience. Notably, Bell served as co-counsel in obtaining one of the Top 50 Verdicts in California in 2018, where a defamation/discrimination case against Chipotle Mexican Grill resulted in a $7.9 million verdict. His expertise has also led to several other multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts, including a $4 million case involving dangerous working conditions and a $3.25 million case where a motorcyclist was struck by a California Highway Patrol vehicle.
Notable Facts and Recognitions:
- Recognized in 2012 as one of the Top 40 Lawyers Under 40 in California by the National Trial Lawyers Association
- Elected by colleagues to serve on the Board of Directors for the Fresno County Bar Association
- Member of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA)
Practice Areas:
- Product liability
- Car accidents
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims
2. Steven S. Dias
CA Bar Association Status: Active
Year Admitted to CA Bar: 2007
Law School Attended: San Joaquin College of Law
Why They Made Our List: Raised in Fresno, Steven S. Dias has significant trial experience and specializes in various aspects of personal injury, including medical malpractice and childhood sexual assault. Dias has secured millions in settlements, with notable cases including a $1.9 million settlement for a box truck collision and a $400,000 settlement for a gym injury.
Notable Facts and Recognitions:
- Member of the California Applicants’ Attorneys Association
- Background in business and finance
Practice Areas:
- Catastrophic personal injury
- Wrongful death
- Medical malpractice
3. Monrae L. English
CA Bar Association Status: Active
Year Admitted to CA Bar: 2005
Law School Attended: University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law
Why They Made Our List: With over 15 years of experience, Monrae L. English has a unique background in nursing and an MBA, which allows her to understand complex medical malpractice and personal injury cases. She is also active in the community, volunteering for mock trials and moot courts. Recently, English won a $497,000 jury verdict for a motor vehicle injury.
Notable Facts and Recognitions:
- Background in nursing and as a hospital ombudsman
- Frequent TV and radio program appearances
- Member and past president of the Central Valley Trial Lawyers Association
Practice Areas:
- Wrongful death and catastrophic injuries
- Car accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
4. Edward D. Fanucchi
CA Bar Association Status: Active
Year Admitted to CA Bar: 1996
Law School Attended: San Joaquin College of Law
Why They Made Our List: Edward D. Fanucchi has worked alongside his father for over 18 years, handling personal injury cases with a focus on maximizing compensation for his clients. His notable achievements include a $20 million judgment for a severe burn injury and a $100,000 settlement for a slip and fall incident in a grocery store.
Notable Facts and Recognitions:
- Director of the Fresno Grand Opera
- Board member of the Nazareth House
- Honorary Vice Consul of Italy
Practice Areas:
- Personal injury
- Slip and fall incidents
- Wrongful death
5. Daniel L. Harralson
CA Bar Association Status: Active
Year Admitted to CA Bar: 1983
Law School Attended: San Joaquin College of Law
Why They Made Our List: Daniel L. Harralson has extensive experience in both personal injury and criminal defense, representing clients at state and federal levels. His firm has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements, including a $5 million verdict in a worker’s compensation trial and a $1.8 million judgment in a medical malpractice case.
Notable Facts and Recognitions:
- Member of the Federal Defender Panel
- Litigates at both state and federal levels
- Lifelong equestrian and board member of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association
Practice Areas:
- Personal injury
- Medical malpractice
- Criminal defense
6. Nolan C. Kane
CA Bar Association Status: Active
Year Admitted to CA Bar: 2012
Law School Attended: University of California, Hastings College of the Law
Why They Made Our List: Nolan C. Kane began his career as a deputy district attorney for Fresno County, gaining significant litigation experience. Active in various legal associations, Kane has achieved notable verdicts and settlements, including a $1.25 million settlement for a slip and fall incident and a $121,778 jury verdict for a car accident.
Notable Facts and Recognitions:
- Member of the Consumer Attorneys of California and the Central Valley Trial Lawyers Association
- Past president of the King County Bar Association and Fresno County Young Lawyers Association
Practice Areas:
- Personal injury
- Wrongful death
- Uninsured/underinsured motorists
7. Kristin M. Lucey
CA Bar Association Status: Active
Year Admitted to CA Bar: 1996
Law School Attended: University of California, Davis School of Law
Why They Made Our List: With over 25 years of experience, Kristin M. Lucey has successfully assisted clients in personal injury matters, securing high-value verdicts and settlements. Her firm’s achievements include an $875,000 settlement for a car accident and a $13.6 million trial verdict for wrongful death.
Notable Facts and Recognitions:
- Member of the Alameda Contra Costa Trial Lawyers Association and Order of Barristers
- Member of the California Employment Lawyers Association and the National Employment Lawyers Association
- Active in volunteer legal programs and community initiatives
Practice Areas:
- Catastrophic injuries
- Wrongful death
- Pedestrian accidents
8. Warren R. Paboojian
CA Bar Association Status: Active
Year Admitted to CA Bar: 1987
Law School Attended: San Joaquin College of Law
Why They Made Our List: Warren R. Paboojian is a distinguished attorney with over 35 years of experience. He has won several multi-million dollar cases, including a $10 million personal injury car accident case and a $19.1 million employment verdict against a public entity. Paboojian also founded Departed Angels, supporting parents who have lost a child.
Notable Facts and Recognitions:
- Past president of the San Joaquin Valley Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA)
- Frequent guest lecturer on trial advocacy
- Cal-ABOTA Trial Lawyer of the Year (2017)
Practice Areas:
- Catastrophic injury
- Wrongful death
- Personal injury
9. Adam B. Stirrup
CA Bar Association Status: Active
Year Admitted to CA Bar: 2008
Law School Attended: San Joaquin College of Law
Why They Made Our List: Adam B. Stirrup, a Fresno native, has extensive experience handling serious personal injury cases. He has served as past president of both the Fresno County Bar Association and the Kings County Bar Association. Stirrup’s notable achievements include a $49.8 million settlement in a medical malpractice case involving a negligent ambulance company.
Notable Facts and Recognitions:
- Top 100 Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers
- Current president of the Central Valley Trial Lawyers Association
- Member of the Board of Directors for Consumer Attorneys of California
Practice Areas:
- Personal injury
- Insurance bad faith
- Wrongful death
10. Christopher C. Watters
CA Bar Association Status: Active
Year Admitted to CA Bar: 2007
Law School Attended: San Joaquin College of Law
Why They Made Our List: Christopher C. Watters is an experienced trial attorney who has worked in civil litigation for over 15 years. He has successfully advocated for clients in high-value cases, including a $1.29 million settlement for a dog bite victim and a $100,000 settlement for a scooter accident.
Notable Facts and Recognitions:
- Named a Top 100 Trial Lawyer and a Top 40 Under 40 Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers Association
- Holds memberships in the Central California Trial Lawyers Association, the Federal Bar Association, and the American Association for Justice
- Designated as a 2014 Top Attorney by Northern California’s Outstanding Young Lawyers
Practice Areas:
- Personal injury
- Wrongful death
- Product liability
Top 10 Personal Injury Firms in Fresno, CA
Fresno is home to many highly qualified personal injury lawyers, but these ten stand out for their dedication, expertise, and successful track records.
1. The May Firm
Address: 1775 Fulton St #101, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
Phone: +1 559-385-2090
Why Choose Them:
- Personalized attention to each case
- Compassionate and experienced legal team
- Proven track record of significant settlements and verdicts
Practice Areas: - Personal Injury
- Car Accidents
- Wrongful Death
What Sets Them Apart:
The May Firm takes the time to understand each client’s unique situation, providing dedicated support and expert legal advice to achieve the best possible outcomes.
2. Berg Injury Lawyers
Address: 1616 W Shaw Ave Suite B-1, Fresno, CA 93711, United States
Phone: +1 559-202-0371
Why Choose Them:
- Extensive experience in personal injury law
- Free consultations and contingency fee arrangements
- Strong client advocacy and support
Practice Areas: - Personal Injury
- Car Accidents
- Workplace Injuries
What Sets Them Apart:
Berg Injury Lawyers offer comprehensive support from the initial consultation through the entire legal process, ensuring clients receive the compensation they deserve.
3. Tomassian Pimentel & Shapazian
Address: 3419 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93711, United States
Phone: +1 559-201-0327
Why Choose Them:
- Strong focus on client well-being
- Experienced in dealing with insurance companies
- Wide range of personal injury cases handled
Practice Areas: - Motorcycle Accidents
- Car Accidents
- Truck Accidents
What Sets Them Apart:
Their empathetic approach and relentless pursuit of justice make Tomassian Pimentel & Shapazian a reliable choice for personal injury victims.
4. Griselda Torres
Address: 1255 W Shaw Ave #105, Fresno, CA 93711, United States
Phone: +1 559-981-2392
Why Choose Them:
- Deep understanding of clients’ challenges
- Strong commitment to fighting for victims’ rights
- Free consultations available
Practice Areas: - Personal Injury
- Car Accidents
- Wrongful Death
What Sets Them Apart:
Griselda Torres provides compassionate legal representation, ensuring clients do not feel alone in their fight for justice.
5. Todd R. Tatro
Address: 6061 N Fresno St # 108, Fresno, CA 93710, United States
Phone: +1 559-431-0123
Why Choose Them:
- Proven success in personal injury cases
- Comprehensive legal support and advice
- Free initial consultations
Practice Areas: - Personal Injury
- Car Accidents
- Truck Accidents
What Sets Them Apart:
Todd R. Tatro offers detailed guidance and relentless advocacy to help clients navigate the complexities of personal injury claims.
6. Freedman Law
Address: 3705 W Beechwood Ave, Fresno, CA 93711, United States
Phone: +1 559-447-9000
Why Choose Them:
- Over 20 years of experience
- Expertise in navigating the legal system
- Focus on achieving the best outcomes for clients
Practice Areas: - Wrongful Death
- Car Accidents
- Truck Accidents
What Sets Them Apart:
Freedman Law’s deep understanding of personal injury law and their commitment to client care make it a top choice for those seeking justice.
7. Law Offices of Frank M. Nunes Inc.
Address: 6073 N Fresno St #101, Fresno, CA 93710, United States
Phone: +1 559-436-0850
Why Choose Them:
- Extensive experience in personal injury law
- Dedicated to handling all aspects of the case
- Free consultations
Practice Areas: - Personal Injury
- Car Accidents
- Workplace Injuries
What Sets Them Apart:
The Law Offices of Frank M. Nunes Inc. handle all the complexities of personal injury cases, ensuring clients can focus on recovery.
8. Fowler | Helsel | Vogt
Address: 1705 L St, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
Phone: +1 559-900-1280
Why Choose Them:
- Over a decade of experience
- Successful track record with multi-million dollar settlements
- Free consultations
Practice Areas: - Car Accidents
- Defective Products
- Wrongful Death
What Sets Them Apart:
Their extensive experience and proven success make Fowler | Helsel | Vogt a strong advocate for personal injury victims.
9. Bonakdar Law Firm
Address: 2344 Tulare St #200, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
Phone: +1 559-495-1545
Why Choose Them:
- Expertise in negotiations and trial practices
- Personalized attention to each case
- Free consultations available
Practice Areas: - Personal Injury
- Insurance Disputes
- Car Accidents
What Sets Them Apart:
Bonakdar Law Firm provides skilled representation and personalized support, ensuring clients receive the compensation they deserve.
10. Megeredchian Law
Address: 1444 Fulton St, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
Phone: +1 559-212-3317
Why Choose Them:
- Experienced in personal injury law
- Successful in securing significant settlements
- Free consultations
Practice Areas: - Personal Injury
- Car Accidents
- Workplace Injuries
What Sets Them Apart:
Megeredchian Law’s dedication to client care and their strong track record makes it a reliable choice for those seeking justice.
These top personal injury lawyers in Fresno, CA, are committed to helping victims of accidents and negligence receive the compensation and support they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured, consider reaching out to one of these firms for expert legal assistance.
Conclusion:
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit in California
Filing a personal injury lawsuit in California involves considering the type of claim, the filing deadline, and relevant laws. Personal injury cases can be complex, but with proper research and a skilled attorney, you may secure compensation for injuries or suffering due to negligence.
California Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations is the time limit for filing a lawsuit. This ensures that both parties can reasonably gather witnesses and evidence.
In California, you have two years from the injury date to file a personal injury case. For example, if you were injured in a car accident on June 5th, 2022, you have until June 5th, 2024, to file. The case does not need to be resolved within this time, but the claim must be initiated by the deadline.
Exceptions to this limit include cases where the victim was a minor or the injury was not immediately discovered. For instance, traumatic brain injuries may not show symptoms for months or years. In such cases, you have one year from the injury’s discovery to file.
Though two years might seem long, it’s beneficial to start early. Fresh evidence and witnesses are crucial. Begin discussing your case with an attorney soon to avoid losing critical information over time.
Types of Personal Injury Cases in California
Personal injury encompasses physical or emotional harm caused by another’s negligence. Three main types of personal injury claims include:
- Accidental Injuries: These occur due to someone’s mistake, such as medical malpractice or slip and fall accidents.
- Strict Liability Claims: These arise when someone’s actions or inactions cause harm, like an accident due to faulty brakes.
- Intentional Torts: These involve deliberate harm, such as in assault cases.
In a personal injury case, you sue an individual or company for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. In some instances, the defendant might face additional punitive measures.
California Personal Injury Laws
Several laws apply to personal injury cases in California:
- Pure Comparative Negligence: You can file a lawsuit even if you share some blame for your injuries. Compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Lawsuit Caps: Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, have caps. For example, in medical malpractice cases, non-economic damages are capped at $350,000.
- Dog Bite Liability: Dog owners are liable for bites if the victim was lawfully in a public or private place. However, they might not be liable for other injuries caused by their dog.
- Slip and Fall Coverage: Property owners must maintain safe premises. If you slip and fall in a business or home, you may file a claim under their insurance.
How Can an Attorney Help You?
A qualified attorney simplifies the process of filing a personal injury case. They assist with filing, mediation, and court proceedings if necessary. Attorneys, experienced in handling various personal injury cases, know what settlements are reasonable and how to fight for fair compensation. They help gather evidence and build a strong case, increasing your chances of a positive outcome.
In California, personal injury attorneys often work on contingency, meaning they get paid a portion of the settlement or verdict. This minimizes financial risk for plaintiffs, as they only pay filing fees upfront.
How to Find the Best Personal Injury Lawyer in Fresno, CA
To find the right lawyer in Fresno, consider the following:
- Experience and Qualifications: Look for attorneys with a proven track record in similar cases.
- Recommendations: Seek advice from friends and family who have worked with lawyers.
- Process and Fees: Understand each lawyer’s process, expectations, and contingency fees.
- Your Intuition: Trust your gut feeling about whether a lawyer feels invested in your case and is communicative.
FAQ: Personal Injury Lawsuits in Fresno, CA
How Does a Personal Injury Lawsuit Work in Fresno?
A personal injury lawsuit in Fresno typically follows these steps:
- Initial Consultation: Meet with a personal injury lawyer to assess your case.
- Investigation: Your lawyer gathers evidence and interviews witnesses.
- Filing the Complaint: A legal complaint is filed in court outlining your claims.
- Discovery Phase: Both parties exchange information and evidence.
- Mediation and Negotiation: Attempt to settle the case out of court.
- Trial: If no settlement is reached, the case goes to trial.
- Verdict and Judgment: A judge or jury delivers a verdict, awarding damages if you win.
Can I Sue for Emotional Distress in Fresno?
Yes, you can sue for emotional distress in Fresno. Emotional distress compensates for psychological impacts like anxiety, depression, or trauma caused by an incident. To succeed, you must prove the distress was directly caused by the defendant’s actions and support your claim with evidence such as medical records or expert testimony.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help You?
A personal injury lawyer can help you by:
- Providing Legal Expertise: Navigating the legal system and understanding personal injury law.
- Gathering Evidence: Collecting medical records, police reports, and witness statements.
- Negotiating Settlements: Securing fair compensation through negotiation.
- Representing in Court: Presenting your case to a judge or jury if necessary.
- Advising on Legal Strategy: Offering advice on whether to settle or proceed to trial.
What Is a Personal Injury Case in California?
A personal injury case in California arises when someone suffers harm due to another party’s negligence or intentional actions. Common examples include:
- Car Accidents: Injuries from motor vehicle collisions.
- Slip and Fall: Injuries from slipping or tripping on someone’s property.
- Medical Malpractice: Harm caused by negligent medical professionals.
- Product Liability: Injuries from defective products.
- Workplace Injuries: Harm sustained while performing job-related duties.
Victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Personal Injury Case in California?
The time to settle a personal injury case in California varies based on:
- Case Complexity: More complex cases take longer to resolve.
- Medical Recovery: Settlements may wait until the plaintiff’s medical condition stabilizes.
- Negotiation Willingness: Willingness to negotiate can speed up the process while going to trial extends it.
Typically, settlements can take from a few months to several years.
How Much Can You Sue for in a Personal Injury Case in California?
The amount you can sue for depends on the following:
- Medical Expenses: Costs for treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income.
- Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm.
California caps non-economic damages at $350,000 for medical malpractice cases. For most other personal injury claims, there are no caps, allowing full compensation for damages.