Can you sue the government or city if you were involved in an auto-bus accident? Can a passenger on the bus that sustained injuries and damages sue the bus driver?
Depending on a number of factors, you may be able to file a law suit against the responsible entity. However, if you were involved in an accident involving a public transportation vehicle, such as the Los Angeles Metro or Los Angeles Fire Department, it is vital that you contact a personal injury attorney that specializes in government tort claims because due to special laws that apply to government bodies and employees. If you were involved in an accident with a public transportation vehicle, call KAASS LAW for a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer specializing in government torts. Below are a few steps you take if you were the other car(s) that was/were involved in the accident.
If you have passengers make sure you check to see if anyone needs immediate medical attention.If anyone is injured it’s imperative that you wait for emergency personal to tend to injured passengers.
Depending on the severity of the accident it is important to try to not move anyone because this might aggravate their injuries
If there is significant property damage, physical injury, or death call the police.
If injuries are reported tell the office to write a police report and get the responding officer's name, badge number, and what bureau the officer is employed with.
Like most car accident cases parties will have to prove who the at-fault driver was. Public transportation companies are subjected to “common carrier” law in some states.
“Common carrier” law refers to the higher or highest degree of care that public transportation companies have to provide for their customers. Trolleys, trains, buses, taxis, and even limousines are subject to the “common carrier” law meaning they have a higher duty to act reasonably. Further, if the public transportation driver was found at fault there are special laws and rules that apply to government entities. If the driver/employee of public transportation is found negligence, you can file a claim or sue the city, county or state responsible for overseeing public transportation activities under Government Tort laws.
For instance, the if the accident involved the Los Angeles Metro the responding entity would most likely be the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
Six months deadline to properly notify the proper entity overseeing that specific public transportation/bus, in writing of the precise circumstances of your accident.
You may have to file a special form provided by the responsible government agency. If you fail to file a claim with the correct entity within the 6-month statue, you may lose your chances of filing a lawsuit If you properly filed your claim and your claim was denied, it is required by law that you are put on notice of your legal rights regarding the 6-month statute of limitation to file lawsuit for personal injuries and damages sustained. If you have not heard from or unsure about the status of your claim, you may still have 2 years to file a lawsuit against the government entity.
If you are unsure if you have a claim, call KAASS LAW at (310) 943-1171 for a free consultation.
If you are an officer, president, or owner of California corporations and have been served with legal papers for a lawsuit or pending legal proceedings, it is crucial to hire a business lawyer to represent you in court. This is not just a recommendation—it’s the law. According to Paradise v. Nowlin (1948) 86 C.A.2d 897 and Code of Civil Procedure § 116.540(b), California law prohibits anyone other than a licensed California attorney from representing a corporation or LLC in court proceedings, except in small claims cases.
California law treats corporations as separate legal entities from their owners, officers, and directors. This means that even if you are the CEO of a corporation, you cannot represent the corporation in court unless you are a licensed attorney in California. Courts recognize corporations as distinct "persons" under the law and require them to have representation by a licensed professional. Attempting to represent your corporation without an attorney risks case dismissal or sanctions.
Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorneys and Accident Litigation Attorneys are Prepared to Help Potential Victim's Bring Wrongful Death Lawsuits.
A wrongful death lawsuit involves the deceased's estate or family member to bring a claim against a wrongdoer for causing the death of another, either negligently or intentionally. Wrongful death lawsuits fall into two categories: intentional deaths and negligent deaths.
Common examples of wrongful death cases brought under negligence include: medical malpractice, car accidents, bicycle accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, semi-truck accidents, medication errors, drowning accidents, slip and fall accidents, and defective products.
Usually, wrongful death claims are based on a theory of , victims must prove that the wrongdoer owed the deceased a, the wrong does breached that duty, causing damages as a result of the breach.
Most people recognize the term Initial Public Offering (IPO), but few truly understand its significance. An IPO occurs when a private company, for the first time, offers shares to investors and issues stock in exchange. At this moment, the company transitions from a private entity to a public one. This change is crucial for companies looking to raise capital for growth, pay off debt, or make strategic acquisitions. The IPO process involves several complex steps. Companies usually engage an investment bank to handle the underwriting process, which includes assessing the company’s value, determining the optimal price per share, and creating the means to offer these shares to the public. An IPO allows companies to tap into a broader pool of investors, enabling them to raise substantial capital to fuel operations and expansion plans.
Most startups aspire to go public, but several hurdles must be cleared before they are ready for an IPO. First and foremost, the company must prove that it operates smoothly, remains financially stable, and generates profits. Investors require assurance that the company has a , a strong management team, and a clear growth strategy. To prepare for an IPO, companies often undergo a thorough internal audit and restructuring to enhance their appeal to potential investors. This preparation may include improving corporate governance, optimizing financial reporting systems, and establishing a strong marketing strategy to effectively communicate the company’s value proposition.
Can’t get a job because you have a criminal record? There is help. Use KAASS LAW legal tips to get your life back! In order to clear your record, you need to get your conviction expunged. What does that mean you might ask? Well, read carefully!
If granted in court, after your conviction is expunged it will allow you to reopen your case and set aside the conviction.
Such convictions are either a misdemeanor or certain types of felonies. You will be able to withdraw your plea of “guilty”, enter a plea of “not guilty”, and close the case without a conviction. However, this does not mean that your case entirely gets removed from your record. The arrest and charges will still exist and you must disclose the conviction in any direct question contained in any application for public office, for censure by state or local agency or for a contract with the California State Lottery.
Never leave the scene of an accident no matter how minor the accident. If you fail to do so you may be criminally prosecuted. Thus, when it is safe to do so, pull over and stop your car.
If any party was injured after the accident, it is imperative to call emergency personal. Do not try moving an injured party because you may further aggravate their injuries.
Instead, speak to them and keep them warm until help arrives. In the event that there is severe bleeding, try to stop it by applying direct pressure on the wound. Call the police at which point the police officer will take down all parties information, as well as take down any witness statements and may possibly write a police report. Usually, if none of the parties reported any injuries at the scene of the accident, a police officer will not write a police report.
However, the police report is a helpful tool when filing your claim with both your and opposing parties insurance company.
Whether you are a foreign citizen willing to work in the US or an US employer that wants to hire a foreign employee, below are a number of questions our business startup attorneys encounter regarding H-1B visa:
H-1B visa allows US employers to hire foreign employees on a temporary basis. Please keep in mind that H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa and does not bring to Green Card unless the employer files separate employment based petition for the employee during his H-1B stay.
The H-1B category is limited to workers coming to US to perform services in a specialty occupation. A specialty occupation is an occupation that requires attainment of a bachelor’s or higher degree in the specific specialty as a minimum requirement for entry into the occupation in US.
Under California law, Uber, Lyft, and other TNCs are required to carry an insurance policy containing $1 million liability coverage. Unfortunately, many times both passengers and pedestrians that have been injured by an Uber or Lyft driver’s negligence face a great deal of difficulties in recovering fair settlements. Our Ride-Share Accident Attorneys have helped many Uber and Lyft drivers that have been involved in accidents. Many feared being sued after their insurance company denies coverage under their insurance policy.
Next time you decide to use Uber for a night out in Hollywood, make sure the driver has the proper insurance coverage, such as Metromile, which is discussed below. Our Los Angeles Uber Accident Lawyer at KAASS LAW will frequently encounter the following questions: As Uber and Lyft passengers' what happens if we are not covered under an Uber or Lyft drivers insurance policy? What happens if the insurance company denies a passengers claim? What if Uber passenger sustained injuries and were rushed to the hospital? Will Uber pay for my medical bills, treatments, and other damages? How do drivers and passengers recover money damages? If you were involved in an Uber or Lyft accident or have any questions regarding ride-share insurance, Uber accident, Lyft accident, or any of the questions listed above, give us a call for a free consultation and maximize recovery for your Uber accident injury claims. represent Uber and Lyft drivers in Los Angeles, Glendale, and the San Fernando Valley.
There are a few steps a trademark owner can take once discovered a competitor or a competitor offering similar goods or services uses a mark, such as a company logo, that is substantially similar to your trademark or service mark.
Trademark infringement is the unauthorized use of a trademark or service mark. A mark that is substantially similar to your trademark may also be considered a trademark infringement. A trademark owner who believes its trade market or service mark is being infringed may file a civil action for trademark infringement. Generally, a trademark owner must present evidence that the similarities of the trademark or service mark can cause a likelihood of confusion to the average consumer. Specific factors are considered and weighted when courts determine the likelihood of confusion thus each trademark infringement action varies from case to case.
Running a small business or starting an startup business is an exciting venture that can lead to the financial freedom simple employees work their whole lives to attain. However, with the great rewards come great risks that can lead us small business owners to financial failures. Below are Ten Issues Startups Businesses Face:
Knowing what your business will be and how you will sell your products or services are not enough to keep it running. You need to have a business plan written out, including (but not limited to) the following:
Starting a small business simply because you want to be rich can lead to an unfulfilling experience, where you will always be looking for schemes that can bring you fortune. Before you do, think first about your own interests and passions. Do you believe you can give something of value to people at large? Are you driven enough to overcome the many inevitable obstacles an entrepreneur will face?
Failing to hire an attorney to represent your corporation in court can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. Improperly appearing in court on behalf of your corporation without legal representation can delay or dismiss your case, or result in a default judgment for the other party. A default judgment means the opposing party could win the case without the court ever hearing your defense, leaving your corporation liable for damages, penalties, or other legal consequences. In addition to court-imposed penalties, failing to secure representation can result in missed opportunities to negotiate or settle disputes out of court. Experienced business lawyers often possess the strategic insight and negotiation skills to shorten the legal process or even prevent cases from going to trial. This could save your corporation significant time, money, and reputational harm.
A qualified business attorney guides you through complex court procedures, ensures you meet all deadlines, and protects your corporation's rights. Once served with a summons and complaint, your corporation typically has 30 days to file an answer with the court. Missing this deadline can result in a default judgment, leaving your corporation with no legal recourse. Moreover, business lawyers evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your case and develop strategies tailored to your specific situation. Whether it's negotiating settlements, filing motions to dismiss, or representing your corporation in a full trial, having an experienced legal team by your side is invaluable. In many cases, having a business defense attorney involved early can lead to quicker, more favorable outcomes. Some attorneys may be able to negotiate settlements that avoid lengthy court proceedings altogether. Even if litigation is inevitable, a skilled attorney can work to expedite the process. Thus, reduce costs, and minimize the impact on your business.
One of the common concerns for corporations facing lawsuits is the cost of hiring an attorney. However, business defense doesn’t have to break the bank. Many law firms, including ours, offer various fee structures to accommodate the financial constraints of small and medium-sized businesses. These fee arrangements can include flat fees, hybrid fee agreements, traditional hourly rates, discounted fees, and capped fees. At KAASS LAW, we understand that the legal system can be both intimidating and costly. That’s why we strive to provide affordable and transparent legal services that fit your needs. Our goal is to offer high-quality legal representation while ensuring that our clients feel comfortable with the financial aspect of hiring an attorney.
Our attorneys are licensed to practice law in California. They have years of experience handling business litigation, corporate disputes, and defense cases. Whether your corporation is facing a breach of contract claim or other business-related litigation, our team is prepared to represent your corporation with professionalism and dedication. We have a deep understanding of California corporate law, and we take pride in defending businesses across various industries.
If your California corporation is facing a lawsuit, don’t wait to get legal help. Schedule a consultation with one of our experienced business law attorneys today. Remember, your corporation’s legal interests matter, and with KAASS LAW, you’re in capable hands. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business.
Our attorneys at KAASS LAW are authorized to practice law in California.
Usually a representative of the deceased’s estate or next of ken can file an Wrongful Death Claim. All states, including California allow spouses to bring wrongful death lawsuits on behalf of their partner. Parents may also bring wrongful death lawsuits on behalf of their minor children.
Medical expenses that the deceased incurred, funeral and burial costs, loss of the deceased person’s expected income, and loss of consortium. A loss of consortium claim is brought for the loss of intimacy between spouses. In some cases victims may win punitive damages.
Bringing a wrongful death lawsuit can be a complicated process, thus if an deceased's estate or family member is considering bringing a wrongful death lawsuit should seek the advice of a legal professional. If you are interested in bringing a wrongful death claim against a medical professional, hospital, or other wrongdoer, call our 24-hour answering line and request a free wrongful death consultation from a Los Angeles personal injury attorney.
Investment banks play a crucial role in the IPO process by providing a range of services:
Does a business need to comply with specific regulations during the IPO process? Absolutely. An IPO is more than a financial transaction; it falls under strict regulations to protect investors and maintain fair and efficient markets. In the United States, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) oversees the IPO process. Companies seeking to go public must adhere to SEC regulations, which include:
Understanding and complying with SEC regulations is vital for businesses considering an IPO. Noncompliance can lead to significant legal and financial consequences, including fines, legal action, and reputational damage. Therefore, companies must grasp the regulations governing their industry and the IPO process thoroughly.
If you are considering an Initial Public Offering, seek professional guidance to navigate this complex process. Consulting with a Los Angeles Business Startup Attorney can provide you with essential insights and expertise. At KAASS LAW, our attorneys understand the various regulations and steps required to achieve your business objectives. Whether you are preparing to go public for the first time or need assistance with compliance issues, we are here to help you maximize your potential for success.
Yes, the California Judicial Council Form CR-180 is the form to file a petition for dismissal pursuant to California Penal Code § 1203.4. as well as § 1203.4a. Filing a petition for dismissal can be relatively easy, however, it can be a bit confusing. There are a number of forms that you must fill out and properly file them with the appropriate court. If you need help expunging your criminal record get help from a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney or call our office at (310) 943-1171 and schedule a free consultation.
However, if you served state prison time and or parole or are a parolee, you are ineligible for an expungement. But, you may still be eligible to apply for a Pardon. Further, there are certain Misdemeanor/Felony violations that are prohibited from being expunged. If you are unsure if you qualify, you may seek the advice of an experienced Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney. We hope this information was helpful. Stay SAFE! Glendale Criminal Defense Lawyer
After an accident, drivers are required to exchange information, such as your name , address, and insurance information. Including passengers or any witnesses.
It's important to remember that you do not have to give any information that the law does not require you to. Further, do not make any statements or comments with regards the cause of the accident. Specifically, DO NOT admit fault event if you believe that you were the one at fault. Many times, it is discovered that the opposing driver was equally at fault. No one has the right to force you to give an opinion with regards to the cause of the accident. whether at the police station or elsewhere. Keep in mind you have the right to consult with a car accident attorney before making any statement.
Make sure you right down the details of the accident, including the date and time, location of the accident, weather conditions and speed of all other vehicles.
It is always a good idea to seek medical attentions soon after if not immediately following the accident, including that of your passengers.
Notify your insurance company immediately following the accident. Cooperate with your insurance adjuster during the investigation.
However, prior to submitting to a recorded statement, including both your and the opposing insurance company, it is imperative that you seek consult from accident attorney. If you have been involved in an accident, you can request a free consultation with one of our accident attorneys. At this point do not admit fault and remember to always keep copies of all and any correspondence, documents, and reports for your personal records.
Many times insurance adjusters will use various tactics and ask you questions that lead you to admit fault of the accident.
Consult an attorney if you are unsure about your rights and remedies. In most cases an experienced accident attorney will increase your personal injury settlement claim and guide your throughout the entire process.
Recover damages for your injuries: You are entitled to recover money damages for injuries sustained due to another drivers negligence. If the opposing driver is found to be at fault or even partially at fault you may also be entitled to damages from the opposing insurance policy as well. Further, if you sustained any other losses, such as missing work, loss of use, you may also be entitled to reimbursement under your personal insurance policy.
You may be entitled to recover money for the following:
The annual H-1B cap is set at 65,000. There are additional 20,000 spots for foreign citizens with advanced degrees from US universities. However, certain organizations are exempt from the annual cap. Exempt organizations include institutions of higher education or related nonprofit entities, nonprofit research organizations, and governmental research organizations.
The H-1B petition may be approved for an initial maximum three-year period. Petition extensions may be obtained up to additional three years, for a total maximum period of stay of six years. When the employee reaches the limit, he must reside abroad for a period of one year before he can reenter US in the H-1B category.
Employers who are bringing workers in H-1B category must pay the employees the prevailing wage for the specialty occupation in the territory where the employment will take place. For instance, an Los Angeles Startup company is looking to hire a foreign software developer on H-1B visa basis. The company will have to pay the foreign worker the prevailing wage for software developers in Los Angeles. Information about prevailing wages for all the occupations in all the states can be obtained from the Foreign Labor Certification Data Center Online Wage Library.
If your company is seeking to sponsor an employee for an H-1B and is unfamiliar with the H-1B process, give our Business Startup attorneys a call. They will advise you on the requirements, help you decide what job title would be appropriate for the employee, and guide you through the process. Our attorneys specialize in other types of employment law matters as well.
Generally H-1B petitions can be filed up to six months before the intended commencement of employment. For cap purposes, the filing season for a given fiscal year starts on April 1 for employment starting on October 1. The annual cap is usually reached within a few days after April 1, therefore, employers willing to hire H-1B workers must have their H-1B petitions ready by April 1. In order to send the H-1B petition on April 1, employers must plan ahead to fulfill all the procedural requirements and to have all the supporting documents ready.
KAASS LAW Locations: Glendale: 815 East Colorado Street, Suite 220, Glendale, CA 91205 Los Angeles: 633 W 5th St 26th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071 San Bernardino: 570 West 4th Street Suite 300, San Bernardino, CA 92401
California Insurance Commissioner allowed Uber to obtain additional liability coverage through an insurance company called, “Metromile”. Metromile Insurance Company offers drivers the opportunity to add coverage on top of their personal auto policy. If your driver has additionally liability coverage with Metromile, it goes into effect as soon as they turn on their app. In other words, once an Uber driver, begins working and turns on the Uber app, liability coverage with Metromile goes into effect.
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It is a good idea to speak with a trademark or intellectual property attorney to gain a better understanding of your rights and remedies. A California trademark attorney can help explain the process and evaluate whether or not you have a solid case. If you are unable to hire or consult with an attorney, there are also a few immediate steps you may take if you discovered that there has been a trademark infringement:
Absent of legal representation, you can also write a letter to the company or person requesting to stop the use of trademark activity. A cease and desist letter may cover a number of issues, including but not limited to:
If the infringing third party failed to cease and desist infringing activity, at this point it is recommended that you hire an intellectual property or Los Angeles business lawyer that specializes in trademark infringement in order to take appropriate legal action to protect your proprietary rights. KAASS Law may be able to provide you with legal assistance.
Small business entrepreneurs usually come into their industries with little to no knowledge of handling the multiple facets of a business such as financial management, employee relations, advertising and other essential responsibilities. Educate yourself through short business and finance courses, or hire managers who have expertise in the fields where you are lacking.
Some entrepreneurs think they will be making profits for their beginning operation cycles, spending most (if not all) of their resources immediately, only to find out later that they will not have enough funds to start the succeeding cycle(s). Consider every possible cost (overhead, production, equipment, etc.) and save enough money that can be used for at least one fiscal year despite poor sales.
It is not enough to set up a store at a location with high human traffic or with a very cheap lease. Opening a restaurant near a school campus can seem like a good idea, but don’t expect too many customers if the food is expensive and there are much cheaper alternatives around.
You need to consider your target market and their habits, as well as the direct competition in the area. Don’t be afraid of spending on prime location, as the increased rate of customers coming into your store and making a purchase will make up for the initial cost.
In this age of high-speed information, people expect to find just about everything on the Internet with their computers and mobile devices. Not having a website or at least a social media page will render your business virtually invisible to a great majority of the world’s population.
You can hire professionals to create a website for you or put up the website yourself. Make accounts for your business on Facebook, Twitter and other leading social media platforms where your target market can usually be found.
Growth is a good thing unless it is left unchecked and your generated revenue can’t keep up with the expansion. If your business experiences great success, do not be overeager to spend your profits by immediately buying more equipment or opening up new stores. Stick to the strategies you have set so you can still grow without bankrupting the business.
Cash is the lifeblood of any business, and there will be no business once that runs out. Therefore, it is imperative that small business entrepreneurs practice strict financial record-keeping so that every penny is duly accounted for. Knowing exactly how much money is going in and out of your business will correctly guide every decision you make.
Having a great business plan will amount to nothing if each objective is tackled with incompetence. Employees who are lazy, dull, bad-mannered and unmanageable will not just cut down on productivity, but will also have a negative effect on the work environment and customer/client relations. Follow strict hiring guidelines and subject your hires to rigorous training to ensure quality output from each one.
A small business needs to market its brand considering the tough competition it will face against more established businesses. You need to invest enough resources into promoting your products through the right channels. This is so your target market knows exactly that you can fulfill its needs. Online marketing is a must these days, but you should not ignore the physical reach of traditional marketing methods such as brochures, flyers and business cards.
Ultimately, it is a matter of planning out your overall strategy, assessing your own strengths and weakness, and keeping a good eye on all of your resources—be it financial or human. Consider each of these possible pitfalls, and you can find your small business not just surviving, but thriving in this competitive world.