Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about personal injury cases, fees, and the legal process.
If you've been injured in an accident, you probably have questions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive. If you don't see your question here, please contact us for a free consultation.
1How successful is the Law Office of Elia J. Castranova?
Elia J. Castranova has a proven track record of success, recovering compensation for clients in 98% of cases. With over 30 years of experience handling personal injury claims throughout Southern California, Attorney Castranova combines aggressive advocacy with thorough case preparation to maximize results for his clients. Whether through favorable settlements or trial verdicts, the firm is committed to securing the full compensation you deserve.
2What does it cost to hire Elia J. Castranova?
We handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront costs, and we only get paid if we win your case. During your free consultation, we'll explain our fee structure in detail.
3How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in California?
In most personal injury cases, California law gives you two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. However, there are exceptions depending on the type of case (for example, public entities and medical malpractice have different deadlines). It's important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and preserve evidence.
4Do I have a case?
Every case is unique, but generally, if you were injured due to someone else's negligence, you may have a valid personal injury claim. During a free consultation, we'll review the facts of your situation, discuss the strength of your case, and explain your legal options. Contact us at (818) 817-7778 to schedule your consultation.
5What should I bring to my first consultation?
Bring any documents related to your injury, including: accident reports (police, workplace, etc.), medical records and bills, photos of your injuries, the involved vehicles or the accident scene, insurance correspondence, witness contact information, and any other relevant paperwork. Don't worry if you don't have everything—we can help you gather additional documentation.
6Will I have to go to court?
Many personal injury cases are resolved through settlement negotiations without going to trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Elia J. Castranova has more than 30 years of trial experience and will fight for your rights in the courtroom if necessary.
7How long will my case take?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others may take a year or more. We'll keep you informed throughout the process and work efficiently to achieve the best possible outcome.
8What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
California follows a "pure comparative negligence" rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your damages.
9What types of damages can I recover?
In a personal injury case, you may be entitled to recover: medical expenses (past and future), lost wages and loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, property damage, rehabilitation costs, and in wrongful death cases, funeral expenses and loss of companionship. We'll work to ensure all of your damages are fully documented and compensated.
10Do I have to accept the insurance company's settlement offer?
No. Insurance companies often make low initial settlement offers hoping you'll accept less than your case is worth. Before accepting any offer, consult with an experienced attorney who can evaluate whether the offer is fair and negotiate for the full compensation you deserve.
11How do I get started?
Call us at (818) 817-7778 or fill out the contact form on our website to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We'll review your case, answer your questions, and explain how we can help you move forward.
Still Have Questions?
Every personal injury case is unique, and you may have specific questions about your situation that aren't addressed here. The best way to get answers is to speak with an experienced attorney who can review the details of your case.
Get Answers to Your Specific Questions
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We'll answer your questions and help you understand your legal options.