When to Hire a California Insurance Attorney

You pay your insurance premiums on time, expecting your provider to be there for you after an accident. But now, they’re delaying, denying, or offering a ridiculously low settlement. It feels unfair because it is. This is precisely when a California insurance attorney steps in. They act as your dedicated advocate, fighting to hold massive insurance companies accountable for their promises. Their job is to decode complex policies, challenge unfair denials, and negotiate for the full compensation you deserve. This guide will explain what these attorneys do, how they can help you, and when it’s the right time to get one on your side.

Key Takeaways

• An Attorney Is Your Professional Shield: They step in to handle the legal complexities, from decoding confusing policy language to negotiating a fair settlement, ensuring the insurance company can’t use its size and resources to intimidate you.
• Recognize the Signs of Insurance Bad Faith: California law requires insurers to act fairly. Unreasonable delays, baseless denials, and lowball settlement offers are not just poor service—they are potential violations of your rights and a clear signal to seek legal advice.
• Document Everything and Know When to Get Help: Your most powerful tool is a detailed record of every interaction with your insurer. If you face a denial or a lowball offer, stop communicating directly with the adjuster and consult an attorney to protect your rights.

What Does a California Insurance Attorney Do?

Think of a California insurance attorney as your dedicated advocate—someone who steps in to fight for you when your insurance company isn’t playing fair. After an accident or injury, you expect your insurer to hold up their end of the bargain. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. Insurance companies are large corporations with teams of lawyers, and their goal is often to protect their bottom line. This can lead them to unfairly delay, underpay, or deny a legitimate claim.

An insurance attorney’s job is to level the playing field. They understand the complex language of insurance policies and the specific state laws that protect you. They represent policyholders, not the insurance giants. Their work involves a deep dive into your case: reviewing your policy, gathering evidence like medical records and accident reports, and building a strong argument for why your claim should be paid in full. Whether it’s negotiating directly with the claims adjuster or taking the company to court, an attorney ensures your rights are protected every step of the way. They work to hold the insurance company accountable and secure the full benefits you’re entitled to under your policy.

What Kinds of Cases Do They Handle?

While our firm focuses on personal injury cases stemming from accidents, insurance attorneys handle disputes across a wide range of policies. You might need one if you’re having trouble with a claim related to your health, life, or long-term care insurance. They also handle cases involving short-term and long-term disability claims, which are crucial when an injury or illness prevents you from working.

Essentially, if you have a policy that is supposed to provide a benefit and the insurance company is refusing to pay or creating unreasonable hurdles, an attorney can step in. They have the experience to manage the specific rules and regulations that apply to each type of insurance, ensuring your claim is handled correctly.

Understanding Insurance Bad Faith

“Insurance bad faith” is a legal term for when an insurance company fails to treat its policyholders fairly and honestly. It goes beyond a simple disagreement over a claim’s value. Under California law, insurance companies have a legal duty to investigate and process your claim promptly and in good faith.

When they violate this duty, they are acting in bad faith. This can look like denying a claim without a proper reason, failing to conduct a thorough investigation, or intentionally delaying payments. It can also include misrepresenting the terms of your policy or making threatening statements to discourage you from pursuing your claim. Recognizing these actions is the first step toward holding an insurer accountable for their misconduct.

How Can an Insurance Attorney Help You?

When you’re up against a massive insurance company, it’s easy to feel like you’re at a disadvantage. Their teams are trained to protect the company’s bottom line, not yours. An experienced insurance attorney steps in to level the playing field. They act as your advocate, your negotiator, and your guide, handling the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery. From the moment you hire them, they take over communication with the insurer, manage all the paperwork, and build a strong case on your behalf. Their goal is simple: to make sure the insurance company honors its legal and contractual obligations to you. Having a professional on your side sends a clear message that you won’t be intimidated or accept less than you deserve.

Fight a Denied Claim

Receiving a denial letter for your claim can be devastating, but it’s not the final word. Insurance companies deny claims for many reasons, some valid and some not. An attorney will thoroughly review your policy and the details of your claim to determine why it was denied. If the insurer’s reasoning is weak or contradicts the terms of your policy, your lawyer can formally challenge the decision. They will gather the necessary evidence to build a strong appeal. If the denial was unreasonable or unjustified, it may be a case of bad faith, and your attorney can help you take legal action against the insurance company to fight for the benefits you are owed.

Pursue a Bad Faith Claim

You pay your premiums with the understanding that your insurance company will be there for you when you need them. When an insurer fails to uphold its end of the bargain, it may be acting in “bad faith.” This can include unfairly denying a valid claim, failing to conduct a proper investigation, or causing unreasonable delays in payment. Pursuing a bad faith insurance claim is complicated, but an attorney can manage the entire process. They know how to prove the insurer acted improperly and will fight to hold them accountable, not just for your original claim amount, but also for any additional harm their actions caused.

Decode Complex Policy Language

Insurance policies are notoriously dense and filled with legal jargon that can be difficult for anyone to understand. Insurers can sometimes use this confusing language to their advantage, misinterpreting clauses to limit or deny coverage. An experienced attorney knows how to read these documents and can decode complex policy language to clarify your actual rights and the insurer’s obligations. They will ensure your policy is interpreted fairly and prevent the insurance company from using confusing terms to avoid paying what they rightfully owe you. This clarity is crucial for building a strong case and holding the insurer to their promises.

Negotiate a Fair Settlement

Insurance adjusters are skilled negotiators whose primary job is to settle claims for the lowest amount possible. Going into these negotiations alone can put you at a significant disadvantage. An insurance attorney takes over all communications and negotiations on your behalf. They will calculate the true value of your claim, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Armed with evidence and a deep understanding of California law, your lawyer will push for a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your losses. If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable amount, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court.

How to Choose the Right California Insurance Attorney

Finding the right attorney can feel like a monumental task, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of an injury and a difficult insurance company. But making a thoughtful choice is one of the most powerful steps you can take. You’re not just looking for a lawyer; you’re looking for a partner who will fight for you. The right attorney will have the specific skills, experience, and dedication to stand up to insurers and protect your rights. Here’s what to focus on to find the best fit for your case.

Look for Relevant Experience and Specialization

When you’re up against a powerful insurance company, you need an expert in your corner. Not all attorneys have the same background, and choosing one who specializes in personal injury and insurance bad faith claims is critical. These lawyers live and breathe this area of law. They understand the complex tactics insurers use to deny or devalue claims and are deeply familiar with the California laws designed to protect you. An attorney with the right specialization knows what it takes to build a strong case from day one, giving you the best possible chance at a fair outcome.

Check Their Track Record and Client Reviews

Experience is important, but a proven track record of success is what truly matters. Before you commit, do a little digging into the attorney’s history. Look for case results, testimonials from past clients, and online reviews. While every case is unique, seeing a history of successful settlements and verdicts shows that the attorney knows how to get the job done. Reading client reviews can also give you a sense of what it’s like to work with them. Do clients feel supported, informed, and respected? A strong reputation built on real results and positive client experiences is a clear sign you’re in good hands.

Assess Their Communication and Availability

The legal process can be confusing, and the last thing you need is an attorney who leaves you in the dark. Clear, consistent communication is essential. During your initial consultation, pay attention to how the attorney and their staff treat you. Do they listen to your story and answer your questions directly? Ask about their communication policy. Who will be your main point of contact? How often can you expect updates on your case? A good lawyer will be accessible and ensure you understand what’s happening every step of the way. You deserve an advocate who makes you feel heard and valued.

Understand the Fee Structure

Worrying about legal fees shouldn’t stop you from getting the help you need. Most personal injury and insurance attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. In simple terms, this means they only get paid if you win your case. The fee is typically a percentage of the final settlement or award. This structure ensures your attorney is motivated to secure the best possible outcome for you. Always ask for a clear, written explanation of the contingency fee agreement upfront. You should also ask about any other potential costs, like court filing fees or expert witness expenses, so there are no surprises down the road.

When Should You Hire an Insurance Attorney?

After an accident, you trust your insurance company to be there for you. But what happens when they aren’t? Knowing when to hire an attorney can feel like a big decision, especially when you’re already dealing with injuries and medical bills. For a simple claim with minor damages, you might be able to manage it on your own. However, if your injuries are serious, the other party is disputing fault, or the insurance adjuster is giving you the runaround, it’s time to get professional help. Insurance companies are businesses focused on profits, and their adjusters are trained to settle claims for the lowest possible amount. They have teams of lawyers on their side, and you should too. An insurance attorney levels the playing field, ensuring your rights are protected and that you aren’t taken advantage of during a vulnerable time. They handle the complex paperwork, negotiations, and legal hurdles so you can focus on your recovery. If you find yourself in any of the situations below, it’s a strong sign you need an advocate in your corner who will fight for what you rightfully deserve.

Your Claim Was Denied or Unfairly Delayed

Receiving a denial letter can feel like a punch to the gut, especially when you’ve been paying your premiums faithfully. Sometimes, a denial is based on a simple error, but other times, it’s a sign of something more serious. The same goes for unreasonable delays. If the insurance adjuster is ignoring your calls or constantly asking for the same information without moving your claim forward, they may be hoping you’ll just give up. When an insurance company denies a claim without a proper reason, it may be acting in bad faith. California law allows you to take legal action against an insurer for these practices. An attorney can review the denial, determine if the insurer acted improperly, and fight to get you the benefits you deserve.

You Received a Lowball Settlement Offer

The first settlement offer from an insurance company is rarely its best. Insurers are for-profit businesses, and their goal is to pay out as little as possible. They might offer you a quick, low payment, hoping you’ll accept it before you realize the full extent of your damages, including future medical care and lost income. According to California law, an insurer cannot make an “unreasonably low” offer in an attempt to settle a claim for less than what a reasonable person would believe they are owed. If you’ve received an offer that doesn’t even cover your medical bills, it’s a major red flag. An attorney can help you calculate the true value of your claim and negotiate for a fair settlement that truly covers your losses.

The Policy Language Is Confusing

Insurance policies are notoriously difficult to read. They are dense legal documents filled with complex jargon, exclusions, and exceptions that can be nearly impossible for a non-lawyer to understand. This complexity is often intentional, and it can work in the insurance company’s favor. You might think you’re covered for something, only to have an adjuster point to an obscure clause to deny your claim. Understanding your rights as a policyholder is crucial to getting a fair outcome. An attorney can interpret the language, explain your consumer rights, and ensure the insurance company honors its contractual obligations to you. Don’t let confusing terms prevent you from getting the coverage you paid for.

The Insurer’s Investigation Seems Unfair

An insurance company has a duty to conduct a prompt, thorough, and fair investigation of your claim. If you feel like the adjuster is biased, ignoring key evidence, or misrepresenting the facts, it’s time to get legal help. Red flags of an unfair investigation include the insurer failing to interview key witnesses, refusing to consider all your medical records, or accusing you of being at fault without any evidence. These are common tactics used to justify denying a claim or making a lowball offer. An attorney can oversee the investigation, submit evidence on your behalf, and challenge any unfair practices to ensure your claim is evaluated properly and in good faith.

Is Your Insurance Company Acting in Bad Faith?

When you buy an insurance policy, you’re entering into a contract. You agree to pay your premiums, and in return, the insurance company agrees to cover your losses if something goes wrong. This agreement comes with a crucial, built-in rule under California law: the implied duty of good faith and fair dealing. This legal principle requires your insurer to treat you fairly and honestly when you file a claim. They can’t put their own financial interests ahead of their responsibility to you.

Unfortunately, that promise isn’t always kept. When an insurance company unreasonably denies, delays, or underpays a valid claim, they may be acting in “bad faith.” This isn’t just poor customer service or a simple disagreement; it’s a serious violation of your rights as a policyholder. It can feel incredibly frustrating and isolating to be fighting with the very company you trusted and paid to protect you during a vulnerable time. Recognizing the signs of bad faith is the first step toward standing up for yourself and getting the compensation you’re entitled to. If your gut tells you something is wrong with how your claim is being handled, it’s worth paying attention to that feeling and exploring your options.

Red Flags to Watch For

It can be tough to tell if your insurer is just being difficult or if they’ve crossed the line into bad faith. Look out for these common red flags. Your insurer might be acting in bad faith if they are delaying your claim without a reasonable explanation or not conducting a thorough and timely investigation. Another major warning sign is when they deny your claim based on incomplete information or misrepresent the facts or your policy language. Offering you a settlement that is drastically less than what your claim is actually worth is also a classic bad faith tactic. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s a signal that you may need professional legal help.

Real-World Examples of Bad Faith

Sometimes, seeing a concrete example makes it easier to understand what bad faith looks like. Imagine you were injured in a car accident and your policy clearly covers your medical treatments. However, the insurance company denies your claim, stating that a pre-existing condition is the real cause of your pain, even though your doctor has provided clear evidence to the contrary. This is a potential example of bad faith. Another instance would be an insurer that fails to communicate with you for months, leaving you in the dark about the status of your claim while your bills pile up. These aren’t just administrative hiccups; they are serious failures to uphold their end of the bargain.

Clearing Up Common Myths About Bad Faith

Many people hesitate to challenge their insurance company because of a few persistent myths. The biggest one is that hiring an attorney is too expensive. The reality is that most bad faith insurance lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything unless they win your case. Another common belief is that you can handle the claim on your own. While it’s possible, going up against a massive insurance company and its legal team alone is incredibly difficult. People who try to manage these claims themselves often face more stress and may end up with a much lower settlement than they deserve. Don’t let these myths stop you from exploring your options.

What to Expect When You Work with an Insurance Attorney

Deciding to work with an attorney can feel like a big step, but it’s really about getting an expert in your corner. The process is more straightforward than you might think. From the first conversation to the final resolution, your lawyer’s job is to handle the complexities so you can focus on your recovery. Here’s a look at what the journey typically involves.

Your First Meeting: The Case Evaluation

Your first meeting is a chance for you to share your story and for the attorney to assess your situation. Think of it as a two-way interview. You’ll discuss the details of your insurance policy, the claim you filed, and the response you received from the insurer. Bring any documents you have, like your policy, denial letters, and emails. This initial consultation is all about determining if you have a strong case. A good attorney will give you an honest assessment and explain your options clearly, without pressure. Choosing a lawyer with the right experience and communication style is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your interests.

Building Your Case: Investigation and Evidence

Once you decide to move forward, your legal team gets to work. They will take over all communication with the insurance company, lifting that burden from your shoulders. The main goal is to build a powerful case by gathering evidence. This includes a deep dive into your insurance policy, collecting all correspondence, and reviewing the insurer’s investigation (or lack thereof). Under California law, your insurance company has a duty to investigate and process your claim promptly and fairly. Your attorney will look for any evidence that the insurer failed to do this, such as unreasonable delays or an improper denial, to strengthen your position.

The Path Forward: Negotiation and Litigation

With a solid case built, your attorney will approach the insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement. They will present the evidence and lay out the legal reasons why the insurer’s decision was wrong, demanding the compensation you deserve. Most insurance disputes are resolved at this stage. However, if the insurance company still refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, your attorney will be prepared to take the next step: filing a lawsuit. While going to court can sound intimidating, your lawyer will guide you through every part of the process, fighting to hold the insurance company accountable for its actions.

How Much Does a California Insurance Attorney Cost?

When you’re already dealing with medical bills and lost income, the last thing you want is another expense. It’s completely understandable that the potential cost of hiring a lawyer is a major concern. Many people hesitate to seek legal help because they assume they can’t afford it. But here’s the good news: getting expert legal representation is often more accessible than you think, especially in insurance and personal injury cases.

The most common arrangement is a contingency fee, which means you don’t pay any attorney fees unless you win your case. This structure is designed to help people who are in a tough financial spot get the justice they deserve. Other fee structures, like hourly rates, exist but are less common for these types of claims. It’s all about finding a transparent attorney who can clearly explain their fee structure so you feel confident moving forward. Let’s break down what you can expect.

Understanding Contingency Fees

One of the biggest myths about hiring a lawyer is that it’s incredibly expensive. The reality is that most personal injury and insurance bad faith attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. In simple terms, this means the attorney’s payment is contingent on them winning your case. If you don’t receive a settlement or a court award, you don’t owe them any attorney fees.

This approach removes the financial risk from your shoulders. Instead of paying upfront, the lawyer’s fee is a pre-agreed-upon percentage of the total amount recovered for you. This also means our goals are perfectly aligned with yours—we are motivated to get you the best possible outcome because we only get paid if you do.

When Hourly Rates Apply

While contingency fees are the standard for bad faith claims, some legal matters are handled on an hourly basis. In these situations, an attorney charges a set rate for every hour they spend working on your case. These rates can vary widely depending on the lawyer’s experience and how complex your situation is.

However, this is not the typical model for the cases we handle. During your initial consultation, it’s always a good idea to ask directly about the fee structure. A trustworthy attorney will be upfront about how they charge and provide a clear, written agreement so there are no surprises down the road. For most people fighting an insurance company, the contingency model is the one you’ll encounter.

What About Other Costs and Expenses?

It’s important to distinguish between attorney’s fees and case expenses. Fees are what you pay the lawyer for their time and expertise. Expenses are the out-of-pocket costs required to build and pursue your case. These can include things like court filing fees, the cost of obtaining medical records, paying for expert witness testimony, or deposition transcripts.

In many contingency fee agreements, the law firm will advance these litigation expenses on your behalf, and they are then reimbursed from the settlement or award. Be sure to ask a potential attorney how these costs are handled. Do they come out of the total settlement before or after the attorney’s percentage is calculated? A clear fee agreement will outline all of these details, ensuring you understand exactly what to expect.

Common Hurdles in a Bad Faith Insurance Claim

Filing a bad faith claim means you’re standing up to a powerful insurance company, and that path can have its share of challenges. Insurers have extensive resources and legal teams dedicated to protecting their bottom line. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for the road ahead and understand why having an experienced attorney by your side is so important. From proving your case to countering the company’s strategies, here are some of the most common hurdles you might face.

Meeting the Burden of Proof

In California, the law is clear: your insurance company has a duty to treat you fairly and handle your claim in good faith. While this puts the legal obligation on them, it’s up to you—the policyholder—to prove they failed to do so. This is known as the “burden of proof.” You can’t just say they acted unfairly; you have to show it with concrete evidence. This includes documenting every phone call, saving every email, and keeping detailed records of delays or misleading statements. An attorney knows exactly what kind of evidence is needed to build a strong case that clearly demonstrates the insurer violated your insurance legal rights.

Facing the Insurance Company’s Tactics

Insurance companies often use specific tactics to delay, deny, or underpay claims. A common strategy is making an “unreasonably low” settlement offer, hoping you’ll accept it out of desperation or frustration. They might also drag out the investigation, ask for endless and unnecessary paperwork, or misinterpret the language in your own policy to avoid paying what you’re rightfully owed. These tactics are designed to wear you down and make you feel powerless. Recognizing these strategies for what they are is the first step in fighting back and refusing to settle for less than your claim is worth.

Common Myths About Getting Legal Help

Many people hesitate to seek legal help because of a few persistent myths. One of the biggest is that hiring an attorney is too expensive. The reality is that most personal injury and bad faith lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless they win your case. Another common belief is that you can handle the claim on your own to save money. Unfortunately, this often leads to lower settlements, as individuals are left to fight against the insurer’s experienced legal team alone. Understanding these bad faith insurance claims myths can help you make an informed decision and get the professional support you need.

Key California Insurance Laws to Know

Navigating an insurance claim can feel like learning a new language, but you don’t have to do it alone. California has specific laws designed to protect you, the policyholder, from unfair treatment. Understanding these rules can make a huge difference in how you approach your claim and what you expect from your insurer. These laws aren’t just suggestions; they are requirements that every insurance company operating in the state must follow. They form a legal safety net, ensuring that you have rights and a clear path to follow if your insurer isn’t holding up their end of the bargain.

California’s Bad Faith Laws

In California, every insurance policy includes an unspoken agreement called the “covenant of good faith and fair dealing.” This isn’t just a nice idea—it’s the law. It legally requires your insurance company to investigate, process, and pay your claim fully and promptly. They must deal fairly with you at all times. When an insurer fails to meet this duty, whether by unreasonably denying a valid claim or needlessly delaying payment, they are acting in “bad faith.” This legal principle is your first line of defense against an insurance company that isn’t treating you right.

Your Rights as a Policyholder

Knowing your rights is crucial when you’re up against a powerful insurance company. If your claim is denied or handled in bad faith, you have the right to take legal action. This means you can file a lawsuit to hold the insurer accountable for their obligations. Furthermore, California law protects you from being pressured into accepting an unfair settlement. Insurers are prohibited from making “unreasonably low” offers, which means they can’t try to settle your claim for an amount that a reasonable person would find inadequate. You don’t have to accept an offer that doesn’t fully cover your losses.

Important State-Specific Rules

California provides an extra layer of protection through the Unfair Insurance Practices Act. Think of this as a specific rulebook that outlines exactly what insurance companies are not allowed to do. This act is designed to prevent insurers from engaging in shady tactics that could harm you. For example, it prohibits them from misrepresenting facts about your coverage, failing to promptly investigate a claim, or not attempting to reach a fair settlement when liability is clear. These essential protections ensure there are clear consequences for insurers who don’t play by the rules.

Your Next Steps if You Suspect Bad Faith

Feeling like your insurance company is giving you the runaround is incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re trying to recover from an injury. If your gut tells you something is wrong, it’s time to take clear, deliberate action. Protecting your rights starts with being proactive and strategic. These next steps can help you build a strong foundation for your case and hold the insurance company accountable for their obligations.

Document Everything

Your first move is to become the best record-keeper you can be. Every piece of paper, email, and note is potential evidence. Start by gathering all your documents in one place: your original insurance policy, medical bills, receipts for out-of-pocket expenses, and any police reports. Keep a detailed log of every interaction with the insurance company. Write down the date, time, the name of the person you spoke with, and a summary of the conversation. Don’t forget to save all written correspondence, including emails and letters. This detailed record creates a timeline and can expose patterns of delay or unreasonable behavior, which is crucial for proving a bad faith claim.

File a Complaint with the State

You don’t have to fight this battle alone. California has a government body dedicated to overseeing insurance companies: the Department of Insurance. If you believe your insurer is not handling your claim fairly, you have the right to file a formal complaint. This action puts your insurer on notice and creates an official record of your dispute. California law is clear that insurance companies must act in good faith, and filing a complaint is one way to enforce your rights as a policyholder. While this is a powerful step, it’s often best to consult with an attorney beforehand to ensure your complaint is framed effectively and aligns with your overall legal strategy.

Know When to Stop Talking to the Insurer

There comes a point where continuing to speak directly with the insurance adjuster can do more harm than good. If your claim has been unfairly denied, significantly delayed, or you’ve received a settlement offer that feels insulting, it’s time to stop the conversation. Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line, and they may use your words against you. Once you suspect bad faith, the best course of action is to let an experienced attorney take over all communication. While it’s possible to sue an insurance company on your own, it’s an uphill battle. A lawyer understands their tactics and can speak their language, leveling the playing field and protecting you from saying something that could weaken your case.

Related Articles

• When to Call a Bad Faith Insurance Attorney in Los Angeles
• How to Sue an Insurance Company for Bad Faith & Win
• Hiring an Attorney for Insurance Claim: A Complete Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a personal injury lawyer and an insurance attorney? That’s a great question, as the two roles often overlap. Think of it this way: a personal injury lawyer focuses on getting you compensation from the person or party who caused your injury. An insurance attorney specializes in disputes with an insurance company, whether it’s your own or the other party’s. Our firm handles personal injury cases, which means we are constantly dealing with insurers. This experience makes us well-equipped to act as insurance attorneys, fighting back when companies use bad faith tactics to avoid paying a legitimate injury claim.

Will I definitely have to go to court if I hire a lawyer? This is a common worry, but the reality is that most insurance disputes are settled long before they reach a courtroom. The goal is always to secure a fair settlement through skilled negotiation. Hiring an attorney sends a strong message that you are serious about your claim, which often makes the insurance company more willing to negotiate fairly. If they still refuse to offer what your case is worth, we are always prepared to go to trial, but it’s typically the last resort, not the first step.

My claim was denied, but the reason they gave sounds plausible. Is it still worth talking to an attorney? Absolutely. Insurance policies are incredibly complex documents, and insurers can use confusing language to justify a denial that isn’t actually valid. What sounds like a legitimate reason to you might be a misinterpretation of your policy or a violation of California law. An experienced attorney can review the specific language in your policy and the details of your denial to see if the insurer is acting in good faith. A no-cost consultation can give you clarity and peace of mind.

How long do I have to take legal action against my insurance company in California? Legal deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, are strict and can be very complex in insurance cases. The time limit can vary depending on the type of claim you have, such as a breach of contract or a bad faith action. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to pursue your case forever. Because these timelines can be confusing, it is critical to speak with an attorney as soon as you suspect a problem with your claim. They can determine the specific deadlines that apply to your situation.

Can an attorney help if it’s my own insurance company giving me a hard time? Yes, and this is one of the most common reasons people seek our help. You pay premiums with the expectation that your own insurer will be there for you after an accident. When they unreasonably delay, underpay, or deny your claim, they are violating their duty to you as a policyholder. This is a classic example of insurance bad faith, and you have every right to hold them accountable for failing to uphold their end of the contract.