More Than An Attorney – Your Personal Advocate

Before spearheading her own practice in 2022, Julie was Managing Partner for 10 years from 2011 through 2021 at Oktanyan Der-Grigorian Law Group. During her tenure at ODG Law Group, Julie exhibited extraordinary leadership, zealous advocacy, and care for her clients, securing over $30 million in settlements in those 10 years.
Prior to her experience at ODG Law Group, Julie practiced as a civil defense attorney for two prestigious law firms in Downtown, Los Angeles and Woodland Hills. Her prior legal experience at these firms encompassed defending insurance companies in serious and high exposure matters ranging from product liability, premises liability, construction defect, and automobile and truck accidents.
Julie’s passion to advocate for others fuels every step she takes. With Julie by your side, you have a committed advocate focused on protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. She works to provide clear guidance and strong representation every step of the way. She is more than just another attorney; she is your personal advocate and a beacon of light you could always count on.
Call Us Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do Immediately after a work accident or injury in California?
If you’re injured at work in California, taking the right steps right away can help protect both your health and your workers’ compensation rights.
- Get medical attention immediately. If it’s an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Tell the medical provider that your injury is work-related. For non-emergencies, make sure your employer starts your claim so you can see a company doctor at the earliest possible.
- Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. Notify your supervisor or employer immediately. In California, you generally have 30 days to report a work-related injury, but reporting sooner helps avoid delays and protects your claim.
- Request and complete a DWC-1 Claim Form. Your employer must provide you with a Workers’ Compensation Claim Form (DWC-1) within one working day after learning about your injury. Complete the employee section, return it promptly, so your employer can complete the bottom half pertaining to them, and submit to their insurance carrier so a claim can be established and a claim number issued.
- Document everything. Write down when, where, and how the injury happened. Take photos (if appropriate), save medical records, and keep copies of accident reports, emails, and any communication with your employer or insurance company.
- Keep up with medical treatment. Attend all medical appointments and follow your doctor’s restrictions. Keep track of medical bills, mileage to appointments, missed work, and any paperwork related to your claim. If your employer refuses to provide a claim form, delays medical care, or you believe your claim is being handled improperly, this is where an attorney comes in. DON’T WAIT.
Can I get fired for filing a Workers’ Compensation claim in California?
In California, it is generally illegal for your employer to fire, demote, harass, or otherwise retaliate against you simply because you filed a legitimate workers’ compensation claim.
My adjuster is already making a settlement offer on my claim but I’m not ready to return to work yet and the amount is very low, what should I do?
If a workers’ compensation adjuster makes a settlement offer that seems too low, you do not have to accept it. Once you accept and the settlement is approved, it will be almost impossible to reverse that. Consider getting legal advice before signing. There might be more medical treatment and a second opinion you’re entitled to. Don’t sign anything without speaking to an attorney first.
Will I have to pay for an attorney out of pocket to hire one to help me?
No, you will NOT have to pay for an attorney out of pocket. Consultations are typically FREE. And Attorney Fees are statutorily set in California, with the industry standard currently fixed at 15% on a contingency basis. That means: No win, No fees. The 15% comes out of your settlement. If no settlement, no fees. You don’t pay for the doctors’ bills or other medical expenses in your case either. The insurance company covers all medical care costs and disability benefits if your claim is accepted. So, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by hiring an attorney early to fight for what you deserve. Remember, the insurance company is ALWAYS looking out for its own best interest: Minimize your Injury so they can pay YOU as little as possible. Don’t wait, and take action now to protect yourself and your future.