You didn't plan for this.
Let's talk before you do anything else.
You're hurt. The insurance company is already calling. Don't say a word to them until you've spoken with a lawyer. That first call with me is free, it's direct, and there's no pressure to do anything.
Call Michael Directly — (530) 265-0186What you're probably thinking right now
Most people have never hired a lawyer. Here's what they always ask first.
"Do I even have a case worth pursuing?"
Honestly, sometimes no — and I'll tell you that straight. But many people who think they don't have a case actually do. The only way to know is a free conversation.
"Can I afford a lawyer?"
You don't pay me a dollar unless we win. I advance every cost — experts, investigations, everything. If we don't recover money for you, you owe nothing.
"Is this going to take over my life for years?"
I handle the process so you don't have to. Most cases resolve in months, not years. Your job is to heal. Mine is to deal with the lawyers and insurance companies.
"What if I was partly at fault?"
California law still allows you to recover compensation even if you share some responsibility. Partial fault doesn't end your case — it may just affect the amount.
"Will I have to go to court?"
Most cases settle without trial. But here's what matters: I prepare every case as if it will go to court — and insurance companies offer more when they know your lawyer isn't bluffing.
"Should I just take what the insurance company offers?"
Almost never. Their first offer is designed to close your case cheaply — before you know the full extent of your injuries. Talk to me before you sign anything.
Your attorney
Michael Phillips
Personal Injury Attorney
Nevada City, California
SBN 181512
"When you call my office, you get me. Not a receptionist routing you to a case manager. Me."
I've lived and practiced here for 25 years. I know these roads, these courts, and this community — because this is my home too. My office is on Railroad Avenue in Nevada City. I'm not a firm. I'm a neighbor.
I built my practice around one idea: prepare every case for trial from day one. Insurance companies know which lawyers will settle cheap and which ones will actually fight. My reputation here is that I fight — and that changes what they offer.
I take a limited caseload on purpose. Every client gets my direct cell number. Every case gets my full attention. That's not a marketing line — it's how I've practiced for 25 years.
Call Me: (530) 265-0186The process
What actually happens when you call
Three honest steps. No surprises.
We talk — free, no pressure
You tell me what happened. I listen, ask questions, and give you my honest read: whether you have a strong case, a marginal one, or — if that's the truth — no case at all. No obligation to proceed.
I take over the heavy lifting
Evidence, insurance companies, medical records, deadlines — I handle all of it. You focus on recovering. You'll hear from me regularly, not just when there's a check to sign.
We settle or we go to trial
Most cases resolve through negotiation. If the insurance company won't pay fairly, we go to court — and I've been doing that for 25 years. Either way, you decide. I advise.
What clients say
Words from people who've been where you are now
"He kept me at ease and out of stress. He was obviously my best choice and I'm so thankful I decided to get a lawyer."
"Michael was fast, friendly, encouraging, and supportive. He without hesitation was willing to take on my case with literally a week left on the clock."
"I met Michael as a juror at Nevada County Superior Court. I was immediately impressed by the caliber of his work. I wholeheartedly recommend him."
"Michael exceeded my expectations. He was a good and prompt communicator. I give him my highest recommendation."
You have nothing to lose
by making one phone call.
Free consultation. No pressure. Just an honest conversation with a local attorney who's been doing this for 25 years.
Call Michael: (530) 265-0186Prefer email? mp@phillipspersonalinjury.com | 305 Railroad Ave., Suite 5, Nevada City, CA