Legal Glossary

Understanding legal terms shouldn't be overwhelming. This glossary simplifies common personal injury terminology so you always feel informed and empowered throughout your case.

Accident Report

A written summary often by police or property staff documenting the details of an accident. It’s a critical piece of evidence in injury cases.

Attorney-Client Privilege

A legal protection that keeps communications between you and your attorney confidential. This allows for open, honest discussions with your legal team.

Burden of Proof

The obligation to prove a claim in court. In personal injury, it’s typically the plaintiff’s responsibility to show the defendant caused harm.

claim

A formal demand for compensation is filed with an insurance company or in court following an accident or injury.

compensation

Monetary recovery is awarded to cover losses like medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.

Contingency Fee

A payment structure where your attorney only gets paid if your case is successful common in personal injury cases. No win, no fee.

Damages

The financial value of the harm you’ve suffered. Damages can be economic (medical bills, lost wages) or non economic (pain or trauma)

Defendant

The person, party, or entity being accused of negligence or wrongdoing in a personal injury case.

Deposition

A recorded, sworn interview during discovery where attorneys ask parties or witnesses questions under oath.

Discovery

The phase where both sides gather evidence and information before trial includes documents, depositions, and medical records.

Damages

A professional, such as a doctor or accident reconstructionist, who provides specialized knowledge to support your case.

Fault

Legal responsibility for causing harm. Establishing fault is key to recovering damages in personal injury cases.

Insurance Adjuster

A representative of the insurance company who investigates claims and negotiates settlements, often aiming to minimize payouts.

Liability

Legal responsibility for an accident or injury. Proving liability is essential to winning a personal injury claim.

Lien

A legal claim by a third party (often a medical provider) on your settlement to ensure they get paid for services provided.

Litigation

The formal process of resolving a dispute through the court system occurs when settlement negotiations fail.

Negligence

Failure to use reasonable care, resulting in harm to another person. Most personal injury cases are based on negligence.

Pain and Suffering

Non-economic damages for the physical and emotional hardship you endure after an injury.

Plaintiff

The injured party who brings a lawsuit against another for damages.

Premises Liability

Legal responsibility of property owners to keep their premises safe. If they don’t, and someone gets injured, they may be liable.

Settlement

An agreement between the injured party and the responsible party (or their insurer) to resolve a claim without trial.

Statute of Limitations

The deadline by which a personal injury lawsuit must be filed. In California, most injury cases must be filed within 2 years.

Third-Party Claim

A legal action against someone other than your employer (in a workplace case), such as a contractor or manufacturer.

Tort

A legal term for a wrongful act (excluding breach of contract) that causes injury and can result in a civil claim.

Wrongful Death

A claim is brought when someone dies due to another person’s negligence or misconduct. Ryan Pinkett Law helps surviving families seek justice.

why choose me?

From day one, I’m here to listen, guide you, and keep you informed, so you're never in the dark. You won’t face this alone. I’ve got your back like I would my own family.

personal touch

I’m never hands off. From intake to resolution, you’ll work directly with me no paralegal gatekeepers.

expertise

This isn’t general practice it’s what I do every day. My experience brings sharper insights and better outcomes.

Proven Results

Every case is a mission. I pursue the best outcome financially and emotionally.

I'm Here When You Need Me

Facing an emergency or urgent question? I’m on call for you even nights and weekends.

Lead With Compassion

I’m never hands off. From intake to resolution, you’ll work directly with me no paralegal gatekeepers.

No win. No fee

I’m never hands off. From intake to resolution, you’ll work directly with me no paralegal gatekeepers.

hear from people i've helped
"It probably took a little over a year but Ryan Pinkney, my attorney, kept me informed throughout the process, from start to finish, and had me decide how far I wanted to take my case.  I found that to be rare.  I am definitely satisfied with the work that was done and I would call upon them again.  And should anyone that I personally care for, need legal assistance & representation in this area I would refer them. Thank You Ryan!"
Samuel L.
"I appreciate Ryan's thorough response, he has always been kind and friendly, going out of his way to make sure I have my questions answered."
Winston H.
"Super impressed with Ryan Pinkney's professionalism when dealing with my case.  Very persistent in getting my case handled properly and taking care of our requests.  Great personal injury attorney.  I would definitely recommend."
Cynthia A.
"A friend of mine needed an attorney to take over a case the prior attorney neglected.  Ryan not only swooped in and saved the day but he made my friend very happy.  Need a great lawyer?  Call Ryan!  He's my go-to injury attorney."
Heather T
"I do not know where to start...I truly cannot say enough about how Ryan is one of the most caring and beyond efficient injury law attorneys.  I would recommend him to all my family members and friends.  Ryan worked so hard to fight for me.  Day in and day out.  He is honest and trustworthy."
Stacy E.
After being referred to Ryan for a medical malpractice issue, I felt supported from day one. He walked me through the entire process, answered every question, and made sure I was fully prepared—especially for my deposition. His professionalism, kindness, and deep understanding put me at ease during such an overwhelming time. Ryan truly fought for what was fair and never made me feel alone in it. I’d confidently recommend him to anyone needing a dedicated and compassionate attorney."
Pam R