Business Details
17 Years
experience
Trusted Personal Injury Representation in Southern California
Westlake Injury Law has been dedicated to advocating for injured individuals in Southern California since 2009. Our firm combines over a decade of legal expertise with personalized service, prioritizing client needs while navigating complex personal injury cases. We specialize in holding corporations and insurance companies accountable through aggressive representation backed by a deep understanding of California's legal landscape. Our team's experience spans catastrophic injuries, wrongful death claims, and vehicular accidents, supported by a proven track record of securing substantial settlements.We maintain transparency throughout the legal process, offering free consultations and maintaining open communication channels with clients. Our attorneys' backgrounds in high-stakes litigation provide strategic advantages in negotiating favorable outcomes. We serve Ventura and Los Angeles Counties with offices in Westlake Village, emphasizing accessibility and community engagement through outreach initiatives. Our commitment to justice extends beyond individual cases, aiming to create safer environments by challenging negligent practices.
Services
Personal Injury
Wrongful Death
Car Accidents
Brain Injuries
Burn Injuries
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have over 15 years of experience in personal injury litigation
- Our team provides personalized attention to every client's unique circumstances
- Proven success in complex cases involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death
- Direct access to lead attorney Russ Ercolani throughout your case
- Community-focused approach with deep local knowledge of Southern California
What people say
Hardest working attorneys
Kept us informed
Loved Russ' expertise
Precise procedure
Happier with results
Services
Personal Injury
Our personal injury practice handles cases arising from negligence and misconduct. We represent clients in automobile accidents, slip and fall incidents, and workplace injuries. Our team investigates claims thoroughly, documents damages, and negotiates with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. With extensive courtroom experience, we prepare every case for trial while seeking optimal settlements.
Wrongful Death
We assist families pursuing justice for preventable fatalities. Our representation includes investigating accident causes, calculating financial impacts, and proving liability in court. We handle cases involving medical malpractice, vehicular homicide, and workplace fatalities. Our compassionate approach balances legal rigor with emotional support while seeking compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional distress.
Car Accidents
Our car accident specialists handle claims involving collisions, DUI incidents, and commercial vehicle accidents. We analyze police reports, reconstruct accidents, and consult medical experts to establish liability. We pursue compensation for vehicle damage, medical treatment, and long-term rehabilitation needs. Our team understands California's comparative negligence laws and fights to maximize client recoveries despite partial fault determinations.
Brain Injuries
We represent clients with traumatic brain injuries from accidents and medical negligence. Our approach includes collaborating with neurologists and life-care planners to document long-term impacts. We calculate future medical costs and lost earning capacity while challenging insurance denials. Our experience with complex injury claims ensures comprehensive representation for clients requiring ongoing care and support.
Burn Injuries
Our burn injury practice addresses cases from industrial accidents, product defects, and vehicular collisions. We work with burn specialists to document treatment needs and permanent scarring. Our team pursues compensation for reconstructive surgeries, psychological counseling, and lost income. We understand the unique challenges of burn victims and advocate for comprehensive settlements covering both physical and emotional damages.
People
Russ W. Ercolani
Attorney
With over 15 years of experience, Russ Ercolani specializes in personal injury litigation. Admitted in California and federal courts, he combines trial experience with strategic negotiation skills. A Hastings College of the Law graduate, he previously handled complex cases in Los Angeles and San Francisco. He prioritizes direct client communication and thorough case preparation.
Melissa Emerson
Legal Professional
Melissa Emerson contributes to client representation with focus on case management and community outreach. Her legal background supports the firm's commitment to accessible justice. She works closely with clients throughout the legal process while maintaining the firm's community engagement initiatives.
Questions
What types of personal injury cases do you handle?
We handle automobile accidents, slip and falls, medical malpractice, product liability, and workplace injuries throughout Southern California.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in California?
California's statute of limitations is two years from injury date, though exceptions exist for government claims and delayed discovery cases.
What compensation can I recover for my injuries?
Victims may claim medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care costs depending on case specifics.
How does your firm charge for legal services?
We work on contingency fees, meaning payment only occurs if we successfully recover compensation for your case.
Can I afford legal representation after an accident?
Yes, our free initial consultation and contingency fee structure ensure accessible legal help regardless of financial circumstances.
What should I do immediately after an accident?
Seek medical attention, document the scene, collect witness information, and contact our firm before speaking with insurance companies.