• Award Image
  • Award Image
  • Award Image
  • Award Image

Helping Clients Navigate Injury Claims

We’re ready to help with a variety of case-types, here’s just a small example of how we can help:

All Practice Areas

Large Firm Results & Representation with Small Firm Personalized Attention & Care

Michael is determined to provide each of his clients with personal, one-on-one legal attention. With the Beliz Law Firm, you’re not a number. Each case is important to us, and we promise to treat our clients with respect. We firmly believe in providing you with a voice in your time of need. At the same time, our Long Beach Injury Lawyers focus on maximizing the value of your case - we’re ready to handle tough negotiations with the insurance company. Finally, we won’t hesitate to take your case to trial if that’s what’s needed.

Learn More

I would highly recommend The Beliz Law Firm and should I need legal counsel or a personal injury lawyer in the future, Michael Beliz has become my new go-to guy.

- M.M.
Attorney Headshot

Long Beach Personal Injury Lawyer Michael Beliz

Small Firm Attention, Big Firm Results

Michael A. Beliz, Esq., established The Beliz Law Firm in the spring of 2011. Michael has been a practicing attorney since 2006 and worked for two of the most prominent plaintiff’s personal injury law firms in Southern California. He has extensive experience with personal injury claims and has worked on and handled hundreds of cases as an attorney in all types of accident and injury cases, including car accidents, pedestrian accidents and dog bites, and successfully recovered millions of dollars for his clients.

At the University of San Diego School of Law, Michael was a multiple-year recipient of the Delroy Richardson Endowed Law Scholarship and attained the high pass in Negotiation. In addition, he was a semi-finalist in the ATLA Intramural Mock Trial Competition. Prior to graduating from law school, Michael earned a master’s degree in economics from the University of California, Santa Barbara and his undergraduate degree from California State University, Long Beach where he was a member of the Omicron Delta Epsilon, the International Honor Society for Economics. Michael A. Beliz is admitted to the State Bar of California and United States District Court, Central District of California.

What to Expect from Our Long Beach Personal Injury Lawyer

At the Beliz Law Firm, we understand the wide range of emotions you experience after suffering injuries in an accident. It can be a scary time fueled by emotions of stress, anxiety, and anger. You may have many questions but no answers. Long Beach injury attorney Michael Beliz provides you with personal, one-on-one attention so you get the answers you need during the most difficult time in your life. At the Beliz Law Firm, each case is important to us, and we treat every client with the compassion and respect they deserve.

Read More

Client Testimonials

  • "I was referred to the Beliz Law Firm by a family friend and was not disappointed. I was a passenger in a vehicle that was hit by a drunk driver and when I needed the services of an attorney, Michael Beliz came to my work to discuss my options. He is very friendly and explains everything in effectively and in detail. He recommended a great chiropractor whom I then sought treatment from and who helped me recover from my injuries. Michael created an excellent report used in my case which allowed me to receive the maximum return in my settlement. I have already referred a family friend and recommended another long time friend to seek his services. God forbid I ever get in another serious accident, but if I do I will for sure contact Michael again to seek his help. He’s a great guy who does great work!"

    Y.R.

  • Long beach personal injury lawyer Michael Beliz represented my personal injury case this year and I’m glad I found them. In summation Michael Beliz came across as intelligent, effective, friendly, and genuine. An excellent people person and well versed attorney is a hard combination to find. Michael walked us through everything; spoke to me like a person and not a case number. He just pretty much made the whole ordeal so much easier. Michael was extremely helpful, patient and responsive with my family and me the entire time. Michael regularly checked in on me during my recovery and kept me up to date on the status of the case and conversations with the other parties’ insurance company. My case wasn’t large but he treated me as if I was one of his only cases. I would highly recommend the Beliz firm to family and friends as the highest recommendation I could offer.”

    M.G.

  • "No one wants to involve an attorney in an auto claim, but sometimes you have no choice. Michael made an unpleasant situation so much easier. He really took the time to understand everything that was going on and always gave me prompt and personal attention. He was involved immediately and took over all the interactions with the insurance companies. He became the only one I had to deal with and there were never any games with him, only sound advice. My only mistake was not calling Michael sooner. I now recommend an attorney anytime an injury is involved in an auto accident, if only so they can deal with the insurance companies’ games, and you would be hard pressed to find someone better than Michael Beliz."

    T.V.

See All Testimonials

Personal Injury Frequently Asked Questions

When Should I Speak with a Long Beach Personal Injury Lawyer?

How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Personal Injury Claim?

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in California?

Will My Personal Injury Case Go to Trial?

Why Do I Need an Attorney?

How Much Does a Long Beach Personal Injury Attorney Cost?

How Much is My Case Worth?

Can I Still Receive Compensation If I Am Partially at Fault for My Injury?

Who Can Be Liable for My Injuries?

What Should I Expect During the Free Consultation?

Recent Blog Posts

Attorney Portrait

How to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California

Jul 8, 2024 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 3 minutes

A loved one’s sudden loss due to another’s negligence can leave you with a profound emptiness and a mountain of questions. While the law gives you the right to hold the liable party accountable, navigating the legal process alone can be challenging. During this time, it’s best to work with an attorney who knows how to file a wrongful death lawsuit and seek fair compensation.  At the Beliz Law Firm, we can help you get justice after a wrongful death. Our attorneys are here to review your case, advise you of your rights, and identify a path toward healing.  Contact our firm for a free consultation to learn if you are eligible for compensation.  The Basics of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit A wrongful death occurs when someone’s negligence or wrongdoing leads to the death of a loved one. The law allows surviving relatives to file a lawsuit to seek compensation for the financial and emotional burdens they face after this loss.  Some situations that can lead to a wrongful death claim include: If you lost a loved one due to any of these reasons, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit.  How to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Moving forward after a loved one’s death can feel daunting. The Beliz Law Firm can help you with these steps to ensure you file a strong claim. Determine if You’re Eligible Not everyone can file a wrongful death lawsuit. California law dictates who has the legal right to seek compensation. This typically includes spouses, domestic partners, and children of the deceased. In some cases, stepchildren, grandchildren, and those eligible for intestate succession can also file a claim. It’s best to speak with an attorney if you have a potential claim. They can assess your situation and determine your best course of action. Gather Necessary Documentation It’s important to stay organized and gather documents when filing a claim. This evidence will help you build a strong case. Possible evidence can include the death certificate, police reports related to the incident, medical records, and proof of your relationship to the deceased. Having this documentation readily available will streamline the process and help your lawyer file quickly. Meet with a Wrongful Death Attorney You need legal guidance when filing a wrongful death lawsuit. A wrongful death attorney excels in navigating these complex cases. They can review the details of your situation, assess the strength of your claim, and provide a list of options for compensation. At the Beliz Law Firm, this initial consultation is free and comes with no obligations. It gives you a chance to ask questions and understand your legal options. Don’t hesitate to contact our firm to learn more about how to file a wrongful death claim. File Within the Statute of Limitations California law imposes a time limit for filing a wrongful death lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations. In most cases, you have two years from the date of your loved one’s death to take legal action. Missing this deadline can permanently bar you from seeking compensation, so it’s vital that you speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.  Compensation Available After a Wrongful Death A wrongful death lawsuit can’t replace the loss of your loved one, but it can help ease the financial burden left in their wake. Here’s a breakdown of the various damages you might be able to recover: Remember, each case is unique, so the specific compensation you can recover depends on your case. An experienced wrongful death attorney from the Beliz Law Firm can evaluate your situation and calculate the maximum compensation you deserve. Schedule Your Free Consultation Losing a loved one can lead to immense emotional and financial burdens. The Beliz Law Firm can help you hold the liable party responsible and seek compensation for your hardships. With nearly 20 years of experience, our dedicated wrongful death attorneys know how to file a wrongful death lawsuit and get results for clients. Call today to speak with a California wrongful death lawyer.

Keep Reading
Attorney Portrait

What Evidence Is Needed to Prove Negligence in a Truck Accident Case

Jul 6, 2024 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 3 minutes

Being the victim of a truck accident is a traumatic experience. You’re facing painful and debilitating injuries that can permanently alter your life, making it difficult to enjoy the things you love and live independently. If this happened to you or a loved one, we know you’re angry and want justice. California law allows truck accident victims to hold parties accountable for the injuries caused by negligence. What evidence is essential for a successful truck accident claim? To be successful, you must provide evidence of the four elements of negligence. But what type of evidence is needed to prove negligence in a truck accident case? Our experienced truck accident attorneys at the Beliz Law Firm can help you collect the evidence you need to prove your negligence claim. What Type of Evidence Is Needed to Prove Negligence in a Truck Accident Case? Experienced truck accident attorneys know how to prove negligence in a truck accident case. You must provide evidence of the four elements of negligence: The following includes common types of evidence. Accident Photos and Video Footage Photos and surveillance footage of the accident scene establish what happened. Photos can show car damage, property damage, and debris after an accident. Video footage may show the actual accident.  Black Box A black box is an electronic monitoring device. It can provide crucial evidence in a truck accident case, such as: A black box in a truck is similar to an airplane’s black box. Police Report When police are called to the scene of an accident, they write a report that includes the following: Police reports can be collected from the local police station. Camera Footage Some trucks have cameras. If the camera faces the driver, it can show what the driver did during the crash, such as sleeping (driver’s fatigue) or talking on the phone (distracted driving). The camera can also be on the outside of the truck, providing evidence that the truck swerved or was driving too close to another vehicle. Log Books Federal regulations require truck drivers to maintain specific schedules for driving, including mandatory breaks and rests. The driver must log their driving hours, breaks, and rests in a log book. Log books provide evidence of the driver’s compliance with these regulations. Alcohol and Drug Testing All truck drivers should operate their trucks free from alcohol or drugs. Driving while under the influence is a breach of their duty. If there is suspicion of driving while intoxicated, an alcohol or drug test should be performed. Phone Records Phone records can show whether the driver was talking on the phone, texting, or sending emails when the crash occurred.  Truck Maintenance Schedule Trucks need routine maintenance to ensure they are operating correctly. Thus, all trucking companies should have a maintenance schedule for their trucks.  Suppose there is no maintenance schedule, or a truck operates with missed maintenance appointments. In that case, this can be used as evidence of the trucking company’s failure to follow through with its duty to ensure its trucks function properly. Employee Files Trucking companies should keep detailed employee (or independent contractor) files on their truck drivers. These files provide information such as whether the driver has the proper training and license to drive a truck. Medical Records Healthcare records provide evidence of injuries sustained from the truck accident. Examples of records include the following: A doctor’s diagnosis explains the extent of the injuries and describes the effect they will have on the life of the victim and their ability to earn a living. Healthcare bills provide evidence of the financial impact resulting from the injuries. Financial Records Part of the element of damages in a truck accident claim involves providing evidence of financial injury. After a truck accident, you most likely took time off work. This loss of income is recoverable.  Further, truck accidents can affect your ability to earn a living in various ways, such as: Evidence of these financial damages can be found in tax documents, pay stubs, and bank statements. Contact The Beliz Law Firm for a Free Consultation Founder of the Beliz Law Firm and University of San Diego School of Law graduate Michael A. Beliz has almost 20 years of legal experience. He understands the importance of collecting and preserving evidence immediately after an accident.  Proving negligence in a truck accident lawsuit can be complicated. You don’t want to miss anything. Having a seasoned attorney can enhance your chances of maximum recovery. Contact our office now for a free case evaluation.

Keep Reading
Attorney Portrait

California Dram Shop Law

Jul 6, 2024 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 3 minutes

Choosing to drive after consuming alcohol is a terrible decision. Unfortunately, it is a decision people make every day. Driving while intoxicated impairs judgment and makes reflexes sluggish, increasing the risk of an accident. Many states have adopted dram shop liability laws to prevent these tragedies. Dram shop laws aim to hold establishments responsible for serving too many alcoholic beverages to a patron or for serving an already intoxicated patron. California dram shop laws are complicated. In the past, they aggressively targeted establishments, providing an opportunity for victims injured in accidents caused by intoxicated persons to sue the establishment that served the alcoholic beverages. However, the California legislature has primarily repealed this law, leaving only a tiny exception regarding serving alcohol to minors. The Beliz Law Firm is well-informed of all legal updates about California dram shop laws. If you have been injured in an accident caused by an intoxicated person, contact one of our attorneys to see if you are legally able to sue the establishment or host who served the alcoholic beverages. What Is a Dram Shop Law? First, what is a dram shop? A dram shop is an establishment that sells alcoholic drinks. Common examples include bars, restaurants, clubs, and lounges.  A dram shop law is implicated whenever: For a typical example, suppose John goes to Tavern ABC, and the bartender serves him excessive amounts of alcohol, even though it is clear John is drunk. John then drives home, and because the alcohol impairs his cognition, he runs a red light and hits another car. Jane, the driver in the other vehicle, is severely injured. Jane can file a dram shop claim against Tavern ABC, who overserved John.  This example describes how the dram shop liability laws used to be in California. However, the law now favors establishments over injured victims. Who Can Be Sued in a Dram Shop Case in California?  Under California’s current dram shop liability law, the establishment no longer bears the responsibility to monitor the alcoholic intake of its patrons. Individuals are responsible for monitoring their alcohol intake.   There are now only two legal exceptions, and they both involve serving alcohol to minors.  Apart from these exceptions, the new law eliminates a dram shop’s liability in California. Examples of Dram Shop Liability in California The following are hypothetical examples of dram shop liability cases. Example 1 John is 40 years old. He visits the ABC Tavern after work and has too many alcoholic beverages. John leaves the tavern intoxicated. While driving, he runs through a stop sign and hits motorcyclist Tom—breaking both his legs.  Because of California’s limited dram shop liability, Tom cannot bring a claim for his injuries against Tavern ABC. He can, however, sue John. Example 2 Jane is 17 years old. She visits the ABC Tavern. Chris, the bartender, serves her too many drinks, and Jane becomes intoxicated. She later starts a fight in a bar and injures Diane. Under California law, Diane would likely be able to sue Chris.  This example illustrates the exception to the dram shop repeal. A person licensed to sell alcohol can be liable for the injuries an obviously overserved and intoxicated underage patron causes. Because Jane was below the drinking age, Chris—but not ABC Tavern—could be held responsible for the injuries Diana suffered. Example 3 John and Jane threw their 16-year-old daughter a birthday party with her classmates at their house. John and Jane serve alcohol at the party. One of the party attendees, Tom, becomes intoxicated at the party. As he drives home, he hits a bicyclist.  John and Jane can be liable as social hosts for Tom’s injuries because they served alcohol to individuals whom they knew were minors. Is There a Difference Between a Social Host Liability Law and a Dram Shop Liability Law? Yes. Sometimes, social host liability and dram shop liability are used interchangeably. However, social host liability refers to liability for serving alcohol in a non-commercial setting, such as a party at a personal residence. On the other hand, dram shop liability refers to the liability for serving alcohol at a place of business, such as a bar or restaurant. Contact The Beliz Law Firm If you or a loved one was injured in an accident caused by an intoxicated individual, contact The Beliz Law Firm. Founder Michael A. Beliz can analyze your case to determine your eligibility for compensation. He has 18 years of legal experience and has secured millions of dollars for his clients. Contact our office now for a free case evaluation.

Keep Reading
Read More