Areas of Specialty
Auto Accidents — Lawyer Using Laptop in Fresno, CA

WHY DO I NEED AN EMPLOYMENT LAWYER?

DO I HAVE A CASE?

In general, there is no such thing as wrongful termination/discipline in most states if you don't have a contract saying you can only be fired for cause. So why on earth would you ever need an employment lawyer? How do you figure out if you have a case?

Why Do I Need An Employment Lawyer?

 There are some times in your employment that you may definitely need an attorney. Here are some reasons you might need a lawyer.

Deadlines

 Employment laws are a morass of confusing deadlines, prerequisites to filing suit, and requirements you might miss if you try to do it yourself. If you're thinking about filing suit, you probably want to speak to a lawyer.

Confusing claims

There are some employment laws on the books that you might not know about, so you might have a case you don't know about. And there are some laws you think exist, that don't. If you think you might have claims, if your termination doesn't feel right or you think something has happened that's illegal, you might want to run it past a lawyer.

Being taken seriously

 Some employers don't take you seriously unless you have representation.

Uncomfortable in confrontations

 If you're trying to negotiate your own employment agreement or severance package, many people don't feel comfortable being in a confrontational situation or advocating for themselves. Sometimes it's better to have an advocate.

When you absolutely, positively need a lawyer

 If any of these happen to you, you should contact a lawyer immediately: Your employer or former employer sues or threatens to sue you. You're being asked to sign an agreement that you don't fully understand, especially if it's a noncompete, confidentiality, arbitration, or employment agreement.

When you might want a lawyer
  • If you think your employer or former employer has broken employment laws;
  • If you have been retaliated against for complaining about discrimination or something illegal the employer has done;
  • If you're not being paid all the wages you're owed;
  • If you think you're misclassified as exempt from overtime or as an independent contractor.

When you probably don't need a lawyer

CASES INVOLVING TERMINATION, DEMOTION, OR SUSPENSION WITHOUT PAY

  • To make a written complaint of discrimination to the human resources department, as long as you follow the policy;
  • To attend a disciplinary meeting (take good notes, don't sign anything except a form acknowledging receipt of the discipline, and sign "as to receipt only, rebuttal to follow);
  • To sign documents you understand, like applications, insurance forms, and tax documents.
  • To file a union grievance if you're a union member (use your union rep - they're free).
Wrongful Termination — Woman Ripping Contract Paper in Fresno, CA

WRONGFUL TERMINATION

The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (as well as federal laws) is of interest to Baby Boomers and other older workers who may believe they have been discriminated against, or may be discriminated against at the workplace. Such laws were intended to protect employees age 40 and above from such varieties of employment discrimination as the following:

  • Firing shortly before qualifying for pension (which may also be an ERISA violation).
  • Demotion apparently triggered by age differences among workers.
  • Failure to promote as scheduled or promised.
  • Replacement by younger workers.
  • Wage differentials unfavorable to older workers.

Contact our office if you suspect you have been the target of age discrimination on the job.
Our office will handle age discrimination and wrongful discharge cases on a contingency basis. Clients do not pay attorneys' fees until and unless compensation is obtained for the worker who has been discriminated against because of age, sex or race.
Sometimes an employee over the age of 40 or older who suspects age discrimination questions whether the situation warrants a formal complaint, claim or lawsuit. Explore legal options and strategies by contacting our office.

SEX DISCRIMINATION

Legal protection from discrimination in the workplace on the basis of gender is an integral feature of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. In the words of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, "It is unlawful to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of his/her sex in regard to hiring, termination, promotion, compensation, job training, or any other term, condition, or privilege of employment...... based on stereotypes and assumptions about abilities, traits, or the performance of individuals on the basis of sex."

California also has laws to protect employees from discrimination in the workplace. Contact us and let us know the circumstances of your potential sex discrimination complaint, claim or lawsuit, including the following:
  • Sexual harassment
  • Gender harassment
  • Pregnancy based discrimination
  • Unequal pay for equivalent work on the basis of sex
  • Wrongful discharge in retaliation for reporting or complaining of sex discrimination on the job
  • Sexual orientation discrimination in private employment
  • Harassment in the form of hostile, offensive or intimidating behavior because of sexual orientation, when such behavior is so “severe or pervasive” that it interferes with ability to perform a job.

DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION AND ACCOMMODATIONS

If you have experienced discrimination, harassment, or other unfair treatment on the basis of an actual or perceived disability on the job, both state and federal law protect persons with disabilities in the workplace, and we can investigate and pursue your claims for discrimination or wrongful termination, for compensation.

The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) requires employers to engage in a good faith informal "interactive process" with a disabled employee to determine what accommodations might be necessary to allow a worker with a disability to be employed productively at a given workplace. These accommodations might involve adjustment to a workstation, special protective gear or safety equipment, or technological solutions to an impairment of hearing or vision or similar accommodations so the employer can initiate the interactive process with the employee. An employee should request an accommodation by his or her employer and be prepared to discuss possible job modifications that will allow the employee to perform the essential functions of their job.

Although neither California’s FEHA nor the federal Americans with Disabilities Act requires an employer to create a position expressly for an employee with a disability, state and federal law provide definite and certain requirements for employers to accommodate an employee’s disability on the job. The employee must be careful not to waive any rights under the FEHA by failing to participate in a discussion with the employer about the accommodations necessary of mutually satisfactory job performance. Often, reasonable accommodation is an ongoing process rather than a single action.

If an employee is not actually disabled, but is perceived by the employer to have a disability, the employer can also be held liable to the employee for disability discrimination or failure to make reasonable accommodations for the perceived disability – especially when the perceived disability is the underlying basis for an adverse employment action (such as termination).

For reliable advice about your rights as an employee with a disability, or how to document and remedy any violations of your rights, call or e-mail (see our employment law form) us today.

FAMILY LEAVE DISCRIMINATION (FMLA/CFRA)

State and federal regulations prohibit employers from discriminating against employees for utilizing their right to use family medical leave. We are committed to protecting employee’s rights under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the California Family Rights Act (CFRA). To discuss your rights and needs, e-mail or contact us for a no-charge consultation.

FAMILY AND PERSONAL MEDICAL LEAVE

The FMLA and CFRA provide that a full-time employee with at least 12 months consecutive service may take a period of up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for the purpose of personal medical leave (such as pregnancy or other serious medical condition) or family medical leave (such as to care of a sick mother or other immediate family member) without being terminated, demoted or otherwise discriminated against. However, many employers violate CFRA and FMLA laws.

If you have been fired after returning from family or personal medical leave, it is essential to have an experienced lawyer advocating for your rights and interests. Contact us by e-mail or phone to discuss your case.

RACE DISCRIMINATION

More than four decades after the passing of the Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, race discrimination in employment still rears its ugly head in America today. We dedicate our careers to the pursuit of justice on behalf of the workers who have experienced illegal racial discrimination and other forms of employment discrimination.

Contact us to schedule a consultation if you believe you have been discriminated against on the basis of your ethnic or racial identity in California.

The EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) specifies with clarity and force the following prohibitions against race discrimination in American employment contexts.

Equal Employment opportunity cannot be denied to any person because of his/her racial group or perceived racial group, his/her race-linked characteristics (e.g., hair texture, color, facial features), or because of his/her marriage to or association with someone of a particular race or color.

Title VII also prohibits employment decisions based on stereotypes and assumptions about abilities, traits, or the performance of individuals of certain racial groups. Title VII's prohibitions apply regardless of whether the discrimination is directed at Whites, Blacks, Asians, Latinos, Arabs, Native American, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, multi-racial individuals, or persons of any other race, color, or ethnicity.

EMPLOYEES OF ALL WALKS OF LIFE

We welcome inquires from all types of workers, including employees of machine shops, repair shops, garages and automotive assembly line component manufacturers. Our clients may be insurance adjusters, bank employees (including tellers), tech writers, department store employees, fast food workers, sporting good store sales personnel, airport workers and workers at casual labor job sites.

If you answer yes to any of these questions, you may have potential claims. Contact the office of Eric P. Oren to find out if you have a case if any of these occurred shortly before your termination, demotion, and suspension without pay or other discipline.
_____ Did you make a worker's compensation claim shortly before being fired?
_____ Had you recently objected to, refused to participate in, or reported illegal activity or discrimination by the company? (as opposed to something unethical or a violation of company policy)
_____ Had you recently had surgery, revealed the existence of a medical condition, genetic information or pregnancy?
_____ Has the employer made a false statement of fact (as opposed to opinion) about you to someone outside the company, such as a potential employer?
_____ Had you recently performed jury duty?
_____ Had you recently served in the military?
_____ Had you recently taken family or medical leave?
_____ Had you recently served as a witness in a lawsuit or provided testimony or evidence to EEOC?
_____ Had you recently engaged in activity for the benefit of co-workers with respect to terms and conditions of employment?
_____ Did your employer fail to pay you for all hours worked, or fail to pay overtime if you worked over 40 hours per week? Many times, employees are misclassified as exempt and will be owed back wages for up to 2 - 3 years.

Woman Harassment — Man Holding The Shoulder of Woman in Fresno, CA

HOSTILE WORK ENVIRONMENT

An employer may not have perpetuated a hostile work environment but the employer may still be responsible for other employees who did so, if the employer knew (or should have known) about the harassment and failed to rectify it.

A preliminary discussion with an experienced employment lawyer is an important first step in confronting an unacceptably hostile work environment. Contact our office to schedule a consultation if you have experienced subtle or overt harassment on the basis of race, sex or religion.

The Federal Communications Commission defines hostile workplace environment as follows:

Unwelcome verbal or physical conduct based on race, color, religion, sex (whether or not of a sexual nature and including same-gender harassment and gender identity harassment), national origin, age (40 and over), disability (mental or physical), sexual orientation, or retaliation.

An employer is responsible for providing a respectful work environment for all employees. Workers ought not to be expected to put up with actions that inhibit their ability to do their jobs such as the following:
  • Leering
  • Gesturing
  • Unwanted touching
  • Telling lurid jokes
  • Sending emails of a sexual nature
  • Displaying pornography in common work spaces
  • Using racially derogatory language
  • Disparaging remarks about employees’ skin color or other racial or ethnic characteristics
  • Negative comments about employees’ age, national origin or disability

Discrimination — Man Surrounded By People in Fresno, CA

RETALIATION

It is illegal for employers to discriminate on the basis of race, age, sex or sexual orientation. It is also illegal for employers to retaliate when workers report or complain about employment discrimination.

WRONGFUL DISCHARGE

Contact us to discuss a potential wrongful discharge case on the basis of alleged workplace retaliation. A few examples are as follows:
  • You were let go, demoted or otherwise discriminated against at the workplace after you complained about a form of discrimination or refused to go along with illegal activity.
  • You were retaliated against after you acted as a whistleblower (reporting or complaining about illegal activities).
  • You were let go after you brought a legitimate complaint about your lack of paid meal times or break times.
  • Your duties are removed or reduced or there was a material change in your job.
  • Your duties were curtailed after you complained about nonpayment of overtime when due.
  • You lost your job after filing a valid complaint of a hostile work environment.
  • You experience retaliation because you were a witness for a co-employee that complained of harassment..

WORKPLACE RETALIATION ATTORNEYS

We are well prepared, equipped and ready to vigorously represent employees who have been targeted with workplace retaliation.
Sexual Exploitation — Man Holding the Shoulder and Hand of a Woman in Fresno, CA

SEXUAL HARASSMENT / QUID PRO QUO

A worker knows sexual harassment when he or she experiences it. However, proving that sexual harassment has taken place on the job can become a "he said, she said" proposition. One person says one thing, another says another, and those with the authority to make the right decision may have trouble determining the full truth.

QUID PRO QUO AND SUBTLE SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Learn about your legal rights in the area of sexual harassment. Learn how to prevent it, how to stop it, how to report it and how to pursue justice when it is getting in the way of your ability to do your job. You are entitled to freedom from a hostile work environment.

QUID PRO QUO AND SUBTLE SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination (gender-based discrimination) as is pregnancy discrimination. Sexual harassment may vary in forms, including the following:
  • Hostile work environment
  • Unwanted attention of sexual nature
  • Sexy or “dirty” jokes, innuendos or pornographic materials in work areas
  • Unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature
  • Quid pro-quo demands for sexual favors in return for continued employment, raises, promotions or any other benefit on the job
  • Retaliatory discharge after reporting of sexual harassment

EYEWITNESS REPORTS

To bring a successful lawsuit alleging sexual harassment in the workplace, it is very helpful to have a witness to the unsavory words or actions of a fellow worker or supervisor. You may have experienced isolated instances of subtle or overt sexual harassment, and wonder how to protect your rights. Or you may have been targeted in serious, frequent overtures that inhibited you from being able to perform your job free from harassment.

You may be entitled to compensation for back pay, damages for emotional distress and payment of attorneys' fees by your employer. You can e-mail us today with the information about your situation. We will evaluate your circumstances and respond promptly.

EMPLOYERS DUTIES UNDER FEHA

The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) imposes obligations on California employers to take all reasonable steps necessary to prevent harassment and discrimination from occurring and also to investigate claims of harassment and discrimination and to take prompt remedial action. Employers that fail to comply with these provisions run serious risk of liability to employees on harassment or discrimination claims. If you believe that your complaint of sexual harassment, racial discrimination, or other wrongdoing was mishandled by your employer, resulted in retaliation, or that your employer failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harassment and discrimination from occurring or continuing to occur, contact our office today.

Currently, the FEHA mandates that all supervisory employees obtain yearly training in the prevention of harassment and discrimination in the workplace. The timing, content, and documentation of this mandatory training are prescribed in detail by FEHA and regulations issued by the Fair Employment and Housing Commission (FEHC). An employer's failure to provide such training, in and of itself, may lead a judge, jury or arbitrator to conclude that the employer failed to take all reasonable steps necessary to prevent harassment and discrimination from occurring.

Employers covered under FEHA also are responsible for investigating complaints of harassment and discrimination (sexual harassment or otherwise), and are required to take prompt remedial action. Often, employers are ignorant of the proper methods of investigating claims of workplace harassment and discrimination. Common mistakes include putting the offending employee and the victim in the same room, using an inexperienced investigator, or failing to identify and interview potential witnesses, among others. Other times, employers fail to take prompt remedial action, even going so far as to leave the offending employee in direct, day to day contact with the victim. Either way, proof of an inadequate investigation of workplace harassment or discrimination and/or proof of an employer’s failure to take prompt remedial action are violations of FEHA, and may be actionable depending on your specific circumstances.

For additional information about our ability to analyze the sufficiency of the employer's investigation of your discrimination or harassment complaints, contact our office. You can e-mail us now with information about your case or call us for a free consultation.
Law Offices of Eric P. Oren, INC. — Men's hands, sending money to a Man in Fresno, CA

WAGE AND HOUR CLAIMS


UNPAID MEAL / BREAK TIME

Unpaid or missed meal times and break times are a rampant phenomenon in the workplace. Employers get away without paying hourly workers for their meals and break times because they can get away with it. Speak up if your labor has been exploited through unpaid or missed meal times. Contact an experienced employment lawyer at our firm to schedule a consultation.

REST PERIODS AT ONE-EMPLOYEE PLACES OF EMPLOYMENT

What if you are the only employee at a one-person operation (such as a convenience store, gift shop or gas station) and the business cannot continue operation without you for 15 minutes? In this case, you may need to put up a sign that says, "Back in 15 minutes " to ensure that you are able to take your allotted meal time and break time.

CLAIM BACK PAY

If you have been denied meal times and breaks over weeks, months or years, your accumulated unpaid wages could amount to a significant dollar sum.
Fresno — Woman Leaving Her Office in Fresno, CA

WRONGFUL TERMINATION

Employees are wrongfully terminated from the workplace, at an alarming rate in the state of California. The state of California has laws to protect employees from management and employers who wrongfully terminate employees. A loss of one's job can be a devastating and overwhelming tragedy in one's life.

Mr. Oren has settled and litigated many employment cases involving sexual harassment, disability discrimination, age discrimination and pregnancy (gender) discrimination, retaliation, whistleblower cases and more.

Examples of the types of cases Mr. Oren has handled in the employment area are:
1.     Sexual Harassment
2.     Hostile work environment
3.     Violation of public policy
4.     Gender discrimination
5.     Retaliation
6.     Age discrimination
7.     Disability discrimination
8.     Pregnancy Discrimination
9.     Family Leave Discrimination (FMLA/CFRA)
10.  Sex Discrimination
11.  Whistle blower violations

At the Law Offices of Eric P. Oren, Inc., we are dedicated to representing our clients in these most serious cases. Mr. Oren has over 35 years of experience in litigating cases, including cases involving employees in serious employment matters and obtained favorable verdicts and settlements in those cases.

The law protects workers from many types of workplace discrimination including sexual harassment. A worker may have legal rights against his or her employer for illegal conduct. No employee should have to be fired or endure harassing or discriminatory conduct by their employer. If you are being subjected to conduct by your employer that you suspect is discriminatory, sexually harassing or in other ways illegal, or if you feel you have been wrongfully terminated; contact our office now. You can fill out our questionnaire on-line and submit it to our office now. We will promptly review your situation and contact you regarding your case.

WRONGFUL TERMINATION

Firing an employee may or may not be legal. Letting a worker go may constitute wrongdoing in certain circumstances. However, an experienced employment lawyer will recognize a viable wrongful termination case when he or she hears the facts of the matter.

Contact the Law Offices of Eric P. Oren if you suspect discrimination because:
  • You used your lawful rights as a whistle blower to report workplace safety violations.
  • You reported other illegal activity (such as wage and hour violations or sex harassment) at your place of employment.
  • You exercised the "Qui tam" provisions of federal law, allowing you as a private individual, or whistleblower with knowledge of fraud committed against the           U.S. federal government to bring suit on its behalf.
  • You were apparently singled out from among other employees for firing on the basis of your race, religion, sex, age or national origin.
  • You refused to engage in requested sexual activity – in other words, you were a target of quid pro quo sexual harassment.
You may also have been the target of defamation in connection with your job loss. An empathetic, skillful and aggressive wrongful termination lawyer on your side can be a valuable ally and a force for the cause of justice.

Do not roll over and accept a wrongful or retaliatory discharge as inevitable. Stand up for your rights.


CA — Man With head Injury in Fresno, CA

BRAIN DAMAGE

The human brain is a delicate organ and susceptible to injury in a variety of ways. Mr. Oren has represented clients who have sustained brain injury in automobile accidents, and other traumatic events.

Each year over 2 million Americans sustain traumatic brain injury. When those injuries result from the fault of another, you have the right to seek legal assistance from a qualified lawyer to help defray the expenses that brain injuries produce.

The cost of taking care of a person with a severe brain injury can climb into the millions of dollars depending upon the level of care required and the injured person's life expectancy. Additionally, clients who have sustained traumatic brain injury often lose their ability to earn a living, and with it, their health insurance and other employment-related benefits. We help individuals who have sustained traumatic brain injury cover the costs of their rehabilitation and care. We work with experts in the fields of physical medicine and rehabilitation, life care planning, neurology, neurosurgery and neuropsychology to properly assess and quantify the nature and extent of a client's loss.

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, whether as the result of an automobile accident, bicycle collision, fall, playground mishap or other cause, it is critical that you contact a personal injury lawyer as early as possible following the injury. At The Law Offices of Eric P. Oren, Inc., we have seen the devastating effects of brain injury. We have special expertise and specialized knowledge in the area of brain injuries and we are prepared to help you obtain full, fair and just compensation.
Car Accidents — Man Holding His Back in Fresno, CA

CATASTROPHIC INJURIES

Personal injury claims involving serious and catastrophic injuries involve complex medical evidence and substantial money damages. Catastrophic injuries change a client's life forever and often require long term medical attention and treatment. The costs associated with treatment of catastrophic injuries can be overwhelming and will exhaust most insurance coverage. If you are suffering from a catastrophic injury or your loved one suffers from a catastrophic injury, you need a catastrophic injury attorney to help you secure the financial resources necessary to deal with the injury. Mr. Oren can help.

  • Brain Damages
  • Spinal Cord Injuries
  • Neck injuries
  • Head Trauma
  • Amputation
  • Paralysis
  • Disfigurement
  • Severe Burns
Liability — Picture of Document With Gavel Next to It in Fresno, CA

WRONGFUL DEATH

The accidental loss of a loved one in a fatal accident is devastating to the survivors. If you and your family are struck by the sudden loss of a loved one, working with the right wrongful death litigation attorneys can at least help you make sense of the legal and financial ramifications of your loss.

Our office has successfully represented husbands and wives, sons and daughters of those killed in fatal accidents of all types, including car accidents. During such a difficult time, you should not have to face a wrongdoer, corporation or insurance company alone. We will help you secure financial compensation to assist with expenses related to your loss, replace lost wages, and secure the financial future of you and your family.

Wrongful or accidental death can occur for a variety of circumstances. If you have lost a loved one because of someone else's negligence or malice, our office will help you hold the people responsible for your loss accountable for the damages caused to your family. We will make sure the responsible insurance company or corporation is accountable and the jury understands the impact of your loss.
Truck Accidents — Two Trucks Crashed in Fresno, CA

TRUCK ACCIDENTS

The tremendous difference in size and weight between 18 wheelers and passenger cars often spells disaster for motorists. It has been estimated that as many as 10% of all fatal accidents are caused by 18-wheelers.

A big rig usually weighs in excess of 80,000 pounds and may be 65-75 feet long. Because of this tremendous difference in size and weight, big rigs produce distinct and peculiar issues in lawsuits: for instance, it takes a 40-ton 18-wheeler driving at 10 miles above the speed limit an additional 100 feet to stop. In many cases, this failure to brake correctly explains why big rigs are involved in rear-end collisions, or overturns trying to avoid rear-end collisions.

Additionally, the size and configuration of big rigs, when traveling on city streets, present unique and unusual risks to both pedestrians and motorists as the following trailer swings widely left or right, "squeezing" pedestrians, automobiles and bicyclists who are otherwise observing the legal right of way. Our office has experience in successfully resolving claims against big rig drivers and the companies that hire them. Semi-truck drivers and the companies they work for have a duty to operate their vehicles in a safe and responsible manner. Unsafe driving, loads which are too big or heavy, substandard equipment, dangerous tires, and other unsafe practices put innocent motorists at risk.

At the Law Offices of Eric P. Oren, Inc., we know what to look for when analyzing trucking accidents. We are familiar with the unique issues that arise, the federal regulations and commercial insurance issues that are involved, and the accident reconstruction problems that are unique to big-rig accidents.

If you, a member of your family, or someone close has been injured in an accident involving a semi-tractor or big rig, you should contact our office today.
Wrongful Terminus — Man Holding Some Paper With Word Written to It in Fresno, CA

DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS

At The Law Offices of Eric P. Oren, Inc., we have over 25 years of experience in representing clients who have been injured through the fault of property owners, property managers, and commercial business owners. When property owners fail to protect visitors and guests from injury, you need attorneys who have experience in the field. Our office has just such experience. Our office has successfully prosecuted claims for adults and children against the owners of both commercial and private property. We work with safety engineers, property management experts, industrial hygienists, architects and engineers to identify and prove fault, and to secure compensation on your behalf.

Since the California Supreme Court first recognized a consumer's right to bring suit against the maker of a defective product, we have successfully resolved cases against manufacturers of products for injuries from poorly designed or constructed consumer products.

When you suffer an injury because of a defective product, whether the defect is in the design, manufacture, packaging, instructions, or warnings, you have the right to seek financial compensation.

The laws of California protect consumers from products that do not perform in a matter consistent with the ordinary expectations of a user. We have experience in protecting the rights of injured consumers who are injured by household products, drugs, medical devices, industrial machines, food additives, recreational safety equipment and a host of other items mass produced for use by the public.

We provide a comprehensive premises liability practice in which we represent clients with premises liability claims involving:
  • Slip & Fall Injuries
  • Falling Objects
  • Dog Bites
  • Inadequate Security

Securing financial compensation in premises liability cases can be difficult because of confusing issues of ownership, responsibility, and causation. However, we have developed a successful record of representing clients in premises liability cases. Working with an experienced slip and fall lawyer can mean the difference between a favorable result and devastating one.

You have a right to be safe when you are in public and commercial places. Crime prevention and security, or lack thereof, plays an important role in cases where someone is the victim of a crime in a public or commercial place.

Premises liability claims can arise out of injuries on most any type of property, including:
  • Supermarkets
  • Parking Lots & Ramps
  • Stadiums
  • Amusement Parks
  • Shopping Malls
  • Hotels & Motels
  • Bars & Restaurants

All of these places invite the public to be present, and often to spend money, and you have a right to be safe from injury while on the property.
Injuries — Man Slipped on The Floor in Fresno, CA

PREMISES LIABILITY

At The Law Offices of Eric P. Oren, Inc., we have over 25 years of experience in representing clients who have been injured through the fault of property owners, property managers, and commercial business owners. When property owners fail to protect visitors and guests from injury, you need attorneys who have experience in the field. Our office has just such experience. Our office has successfully prosecuted claims for adults and children against the owners of both commercial and private property. We work with safety engineers, property management experts, industrial hygienists, architects and engineers to identify and prove fault, and to secure compensation on your behalf.

We provide a comprehensive premises liability practice in which we represent clients with premises liability claims involving:
  • Slip & Fall Injuries
  • Falling Objects
  • Dog Bites
  • Inadequate Security

Securing financial compensation in premises liability cases can be difficult because of confusing issues of ownership, responsibility, and causation. However, we have developed a successful record of representing clients in premises liability cases. Working with an experienced slip and fall lawyer can mean the difference between a favorable result and devastating one.

You have a right to be safe when you are in public and commercial places. Crime prevention and security, or lack thereof, plays an important role in cases where someone is the victim of a crime in a public or commercial place.

Premises liability claims can arise out of injuries on most any type of property, including:
  • Supermarkets
  • Parking Lots & Ramps
  • Stadiums
  • Amusement Parks
  • Shopping Malls
  • Hotels & Motels
  • Bars & Restaurants

All of these places invite the public to be present, and often to spend money, and you have a right to be safe from injury while on the property.
Pedestrian Accidents — Man Hit By The Car In Pedestrian Lane in Fresno, CA

PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS

Our office has experience in successfully resolving claims on behalf of pedestrians, bicyclists, and runners. All have the same right to use the road as cars and trucks, even though drivers do not always behave in a way that acknowledges this. Drivers of vehicles are required to be particularly watchful for pedestrians because automobiles can easily cause injury or death to a pedestrian.

Whenever a person is legally using a city or county street while walking or riding a bike, and he is struck by a car, truck or other vehicle, he has the very same right to seek financial compensation as any motorist. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 5,000 pedestrians die each year in motor vehicle accidents, and more than 78,000 pedestrians suffer injury when hit by a car or truck. Pedestrians are at a higher risk for injury and death than any other non-vehicle occupant group involved in automobile accidents. Almost 90% of non-occupant fatalities are pedestrians, not cyclists or skateboarders. Motor vehicle versus pedestrian accidents can cause extraordinary suffering and loss. Injured victims should be represented by an attorney with experience in such cases. In crowded cities throughout Northern California, simply crossing a street can often be dangerous. As a pedestrian, you have no safety devices or protection of any kind in an accident. Serious injury is almost guaranteed in a collision with a car or truck.

Bicyclists, too, are vulnerable and unprotected in most instances when struck by cars and trucks. Many drivers do not understand, or believe, that cyclists have an equal right to be on the roadway. Inattentive drivers often ignore bicyclists and focus only on other cars and trucks. Motorists commonly make right turns directly in front of cyclists, or open their vehicle doors without looking. Others pull out from a driveway, a curb, a side street or an alley.

Bicycle accidents involve unique issues regarding visibility and accident reconstruction. They require attorneys who are skilled and experienced in handling such cases. For the cyclist, a bicycle accident is often a fearful and traumatic experience. An unprotected human body is no match for a 10,000 pound car or truck, or even for the hard pavement below. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you are entitled to the same compensation as a person in a vehicle: reimbursement for medical bills, repayment of lost wages, compensation for your pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring, embarrassment and disfigurement.

Just like a car accident, it is critical that you find an attorney who knows how to handle your claim, who can conduct a prompt and reasonable investigation, who knows how to collect the important evidence, and who has credibility in dealing with automobile liability insurance companies.
Auto Accidents— Man in The Wheelchair in Fresno, CA

PARALYSIS / SPINAL CORD INJURIES

Spinal cord injuries resulting from accidents are life-changing events for most victims and their families. Serious spinal cord injuries require a lifetime of therapy, medical treatment, and rehabilitation. Unfortunately, many people never fully recover from spinal cord injuries, particularly where the injury results in paralysis or quadriplegia. Because of the extensive medical care required for victims of spinal cord injuries, astronomical medical costs accompany most every spinal cord injury case. Securing the necessary financial resources to insure appropriate care is an important legal step for victims of spinal cord accidents.

At The Law Offices of Eric P. Oren, Inc. we are experienced and skilled in representing victims of spinal cord injuries and have been successful in obtaining compensation for victims' injuries and in obtaining reimbursement for the losses they have sustained and are likely to sustain in the future. If you are facing a lifetime of expensive medical care for a spinal cord injury, it is extremely important that you are represented by an attorney who is experienced in assessing and articulating the damages and losses that are common in these cases. Calculating current, future, and potential damages, losses, and expenses in catastrophic cases is a complex process. We work with disability planners and certified life care specialists to make certain that in any claim the cost of ongoing attendant care, medication, supplies, rehabilitation, home modification and transportation are included.

A serious spinal cord injury sustained in a motor vehicle accident, a fall, as the result of an assault, or from an accident with a defective product may require a lifetime of rehabilitation and medical treatment. We make sure you have the resources to meet your needs.
Harassment — Woman Yelling in Old Woman in Fresno, CA

NURSING HOME ABUSE AND NEGLECT

As our population ages, more and more seniors are unable to care for themselves. Because friends and family are not always able to care for the needs of seniors, for-profit nursing homes and assisted living centers have experienced a major surge in their number and in the number of seniors they care for.

Unfortunately, in some such facilities, elders are being abused, both physically and financially.

Nursing home neglect can manifest itself in many different conditions and it can result in a variety of injuries, including:
  • Bed Sores
  • Infections
  • Falls
  • Financial Abuse
  • Fractures
  • Malnutrition
  • Dehydration
  • Failure to Medicate & Monitor
  • Death

The national statistics on nursing home and elder abuse are grim. Conservative estimates indicate that one of three homes in America will be affected in some way by abuse of an elder in a nursing home or assisted living facility. With the senior citizen population growing at a rapid pace, nursing homes and senior assisted care facilities nationwide now exceed 1.5 million. This number is expected to triple in the next three years. Oftentimes, nursing homes attempt to save money and maximize profit by using inadequately trained or unqualified help. This puts your loved one at risk.

Working with experienced nursing home abuse and neglect lawyers is critical in order to obtain proper compensation for your elderly relative and insure that your loved one will be treated with the proper dignity and respect. Forcing nursing homes to meet their responsibilities to their residents is achieved by holding them financially accountable.
Motorcycle Accidents — Motorcycle Hit The Car in Fresno, CA

MOTORCYLE ACCIDENTS

Motorcycle crashes involve unique issues of liability, comparative fault, injury causation and accident reconstruction. Tragically, motorcycle accidents account for a disproportionate number of catastrophic injuries on California's highways. Injuries to motorcyclists are typically much more severe than to automobile occupants. For this reason, if you are injured in a motorcycle accident, or if you have lost a loved one in a collision, it is critical that you speak to an attorney who understands motorcycle accident reconstruction as soon after the accident as possible. Many juries, and some judges, are predisposed to find motorcycle riders at fault. Many drivers ignore motorcycles on the highway, and fail to grant them full use of the road, or the legal right of way. For these reasons, motorcycle riders are at higher risk than other vehicle drivers. Experienced motorcycle riders know the risk of careless drivers, and experienced motorcycle accident attorneys know how to protect the rights of motorcycle riders.

A complete and thorough investigation of any motorcycle accident by a competent attorney, skilled in the field, is critical. Issues including highway design, stopping distances, field of vision by the rider and opposing vehicle operator, vision obstructions including signage and shrubbery issues must all be considered. Reconstruction of a motorcycle accident often requires prompt identification and analysis of road debris, skid marks, or gouge marks produced from impact between the bike and the pavement. This type of investigation must be done soon after an accident to guarantee that it is accurate. If you or someone you know has been involved in a serious motorcycle accident, you need an experienced motorcycle accident attorney to stand up for your rights and secure the compensation you are entitled to.
Vehicle Accidents— Crashed Vehicle in Fresno, CA

AUTO ACCIDENTS

At The Law Offices of Eric P. Oren, Inc., we understand the engineering principles involved with automobile accident reconstruction, the medical issues presented by the dynamics of car crashes, and the ways in which automobiles are designed to protect their occupants. If you wait too long to speak with a lawyer, it is possible that evidence in your case may be lost, witnesses may disappear, and memories may fade. When we accept your automobile accident injury claim, we immediately begin an investigation to secure and preserve evidence in your case.

Many people believe that claim resolution in automobile accidents is simple and easy, and that insurance companies simply pay. In fact, this is often not the case. In California, an injured person must prove fault in a claim against another driver. This means that your lawyers must be prepared not only to negotiate, but to bring your case to trial if necessary.

Automobile accidents kill thousands of people per year across the United States. In California, approximately 300,000 people per year are injured in automobile collisions. Because the minimum liability limits in California require only $15,000 per person of insurance coverage, your attorneys must understand how to investigate all avenues of loss, all available insurance coverages, and if necessary, to find ways to collect above and beyond available insurance when possible. Our office will negotiate with the responsible insurer, and if necessary, directly with the defendant, to reach a fair and just settlement. However if settlement on terms favorable to you are not available, our office is prepared to vigorously litigate your case in court.
Injuries to Children — Kid Get Injured in Playground in Fresno, CA

INJURIES TO CHILDREN

The leading cause of death in children over one year of age is trauma. Each year, more than 6,000 children die from accidental injury. Over 14,000,000 children are hurt each year from carelessness. Our office understands that the emotional, physical, and financial losses that result from injuries to your child can be overwhelming and unexpected.

At The Law Offices of Eric P. Oren, Inc., we understand that children are our greatest asset. They carry on our hopes, dreams and aspirations. The serious injury of a child is an event that impacts not only the present and future life of the child, but also the lives of those who care for him or her. If your child has been injured in an accident because of the negligence or fault of another, contact us today.

Children's injury claims often involve:
  • Playground Equipment
  • Accidents
  • School
  • Auto Accidents
  • Animal Bites
  • Drowning
  • Toys
  • Poisoning
  • Falls
  • Sexual Molestation
Injuries to Man — Worker Get Injured in the Construction Site in Fresno, CA

CONSTRUCTION SITE INJURIES

Any worker injured at a job site through the fault of defective equipment, poor safety management, or employer neglect, needs representation by an attorney who has experience in the field. At The Law Offices of Eric P. Oren, Inc., we are familiar with the needs of injured construction workers, as well as those who are injured off-premises by activities occurring at construction projects. Construction zones, building projects and construction sites are inherently dangerous. Careful site management and supervision are required in order to protect workers and the public, from risks that are not of their making.

Even though your injury occurred at work, depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be entitled to compensation above and beyond workers' compensation benefits.

If your construction site injury was caused by a defective product, machine, or tool, you may have a defective product liability claim. Inadequate safety precautions, dangerous design, architectural defects or errors can result in other avenues of liability. As with all our cases, we will examine and investigate your construction site injury claim from every perspective.
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