Personal Injury AttorneyEmployment AttorneyAuto Accident Attorney
Ganong Law in Bakersfield is led by Attorney Phil Ganong, offering services to those in need of Personal Injury Attorney, Employment Attorney, Auto Accident Attorney, Truck Accident Attorney, Medical Marijuana Attorney, Oil and Gas Attorney & much more. Phil Ganong earned his J.D. from Hastings more than 30 years ago. Since then, he has dedicated his practice to representing plaintiffs in civil jury trial work and litigation throughout CA. He has handled and tried numerous cases to verdict in both federal and state trial courts. Contact us today to learn more.
California is considered an “at will” state. That means that just as you can quit your job at any time, your employer can end your employment any time they want. Your employer does not have to have a reason to fire you. He does not even have to be “fair.” They can fire you for a reason that isn’t true. All of these actions are legal.
What are some common illegal firing terms?
Some of the most common illegal firings or lay offs include:
- You’re the victim of discrimination because of race, sex, age, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or national origin.
- You were fired after complaining about discrimination, sexual harassment or overtime.
- You were fired or laid-off in violation of a contract.
- Your employer is retaliating for your whistle blowing (filing a complaint against your employer for breaking the law).
- You were fired for taking time off for military service.
- You were fired for having a long-term illness or because you took time off when your child was ill.
- You exercised your right to vote.
- You helped organize a union.
What complaints should be filed if a termination might be discriminatory?
In the state of California, if your termination involves discrimination, you will need to file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Are employers required to pay out accrued vacation and sick days?
The courts have ruled that vacation time is a form of wages. California prohibits “use it or lose it” policies in which employees lose their earned vacation that is not taken at a specific time. All earned vacation time is due and payable at the time you were terminated. Sick days are different. These are not considered a form of wages and the company does not have to pay you for the days you earned and have left.
Are railroad workers eligible for worker's compensation?
Most injured railroad workers are not eligible for workers’ compensation. When railroad workers are injured or lose their life on the job, their right to compensation from the railroad is governed by the Federal Employers’ Liability Act, or FELA.
How do you win a FELA claim?
A FELA railroad injury attorney only has to show that railroad negligence played any role at all, and the injured worker is due compensation by the railroad. Though you do not have to prove any negligence at all in a workers’ compensation claim, typically the verdict or settlement from a FELA claim is much higher than someone would get from a workers’ comp claim.
What should be done in case of a railroad worker injury?
To protect your rights, it is important to contact a FELA injury attorney as soon as possible:
- The way in which you fill out your Report of Injury or Industrial Illness may help or harm your case.
- You should never assume that you know all of the facts that led up to your injury.
- A cell phone picture of the defective equipment or dangerous condition that caused an injury can keep the railroad from denying or destroying evidence.
- Having your FELA railroad attorney or investigator take statements from witnesses helps preserve the facts in case witnesses become unavailable later.
How are damages awarded in a wrongful death suit if there are multiple heirs?
If the case goes to trial the jury awards one amount to the entire family. The judge then divides up the award basing his decision on a number of factors, such as the financial dependence each heir had on the decedent and the closeness of their relationship.
If the case settles, then the heirs divide up the settlement themselves. They can ask for assistance from the judge, arbitrator, mediator, or their wrongful death attorney.
What are the most common causes of brain injuries?
Frequent causes of brain injuries include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Falls
- Sports
- Guns
- Physical Violence
What types of employees are eligible for overtime?
The key to whether you are eligible for overtime is whether you are classified as an exempt or nonexempt employee.
- An exempt employee is NOT entitled to overtime pay.
- A non-exempt employee MAY BE entitled to overtime pay.
What are overtime hours in California?
For employees classified as non-exempt (meaning you’re entitled to overtime), California considers overtime to be:
- Time over 8 hours per day must be paid at the rate of 1½ times your regular rate of pay.
- Time over 12 hours per day must be paid at the rate of 2 times your regular rate of pay.
- Time over 40 hours per week must be paid at the rate of 1½ times your regular rate of pay.
Who is at fault for a motor vehicle accident in California?
Determining who is to blame – or who is liable – can be complex. California has comparative negligence laws. This means that more than one person or entity can be responsible for your motor vehicle accident. But the insurance defense attorney will blame you!
What can be reimbursed in a motor vehicle accident case?
In a serious motor vehicle accident you may need compensation to reimburse you for:
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Replacing your car
- Lost wages and benefits
- Replacing your car or other property
What are the California statute limitations on car accident claims?
If another person's negligence caused a car accident that resulted in personal injury, you need to file a car accident claim within California's statute of limitations of two years. People from all over California come to Ganong Law for representation.
What should you tell your insurance company after a motor vehicle accident?
Your own or the other driver's insurance company may also try to get you to make a statement. Don't give them any information, because they will try to use it against you. If an insurance company contacts you following an accident, don't talk about who's responsible and don't admit guilt. Simply tell them to contact your attorney.
Do you offer free consultations?
We offer free, no-obligation consultations. Call us or contact us online to speak with our attorney about your case.
What areas do you specialize in?
In addition to personal injury cases, Mr. Ganong has represented victims of sexual harassment and motor vehicle accidents and families affected by wrongful death. He has a strong record of highly successful outcomes.
Where is Ganong Law located in Bakersfield?
Ganong Law is located at 930 Truxtun Ave, Ste 102, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USA.
What are the regular office hours for Ganong Law?
The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on weekends by appointment only.
What practice areas does Ganong Law specialize in?
Ganong Law specializes in personal injury, employment, auto accident, truck accident, medical marijuana, and oil and gas law, among other areas.
How can I contact Ganong Law for a consultation?
You can contact Ganong Law via phone at +1 661-327-3337 or email at info@ganonglaw.com, and schedule a consultation through their website.
Is Ganong Law accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, Ganong Law has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and restroom to accommodate clients with disabilities.
What languages are spoken at Ganong Law?
Ganong Law offers services in English, German, and Spanish to serve a diverse client base.
Can you tell me about nearby legal services around Ganong Law?
Nearby legal services include The Law Office of Thomas A. Brill, Law Offices of Mickey Fine specializing in personal injury, Immigration Attorneys Eaton & Associates, and Azemika & Azemika focused on family law.
Are there any community services or non-profits near Ganong Law?
Yes, Bakersfield Burrito Project and Kern County Dental Society are nearby non-profits that serve the community.
What dining options are near Ganong Law for clients visiting the area?
Clients can visit Downtown Red Zone, a sports bar and American restaurant, conveniently located near Ganong Law.
How long has Ganong Law been established in Bakersfield?
Ganong Law has been established since 1994, bringing over 30 years of legal experience.