Dawn Ceizler | Walnut Creek Personal Injury

Lawyer.com Member Questionnaire

Please describe a case(s) in the last year or two where you made a big difference.
An elderly client was hit by a vehicle while riding in a golf cart. Given his age, his priority was to settle the case quickly. The accident occurred on May 21 and we had a check in hand by July 21 because I was able to notify Medicare of the claim and negotiate the lien quickly. It was also nice that we obtained a policy limit payment in the six figures for the matter.

How did you build a successful practice?
I aggressively litigate but am professional and courteous to opposing counsel and the courts. I do not talk down to my clients but rather treat them as teammates. I always explain the process. I answer my phone personally and respond to emails and phone calls within 1 business day and usually much sooner. Most of my defense clients are parties who have litigated against me and were impressed enough that they hired me to represent them after the lawsuit we were involved in against each other ended.

What should clients look for in a lawyer?
Honesty, integrity, work ethic, diligence, thoroughness, approachability, results, knowledge, and experience.

How important is local knowledge to the success of your cases?
I practice throughout the state of California. However, knowledge of the court rules and judges in my 9 local counties and federal court helps me explain to my clients what to expect and avoid pitfalls (like not checking tentative rulings on CMCs in Alameda county).

What information can you provide in a free phone consultation?
If the client has a copy of the police report or other key documents, I can usually provide an outline of the defense that will be presented as well as the case we will present. I highlight the good facts and bad facts, explain the litigation process including the client’s time commitment, and explain my fee structure.

What information do you need in a free phone consultation?
A copy of the police report, evidence of out of pocket costs and wage loss, and if the other party was uninsured a copy of the client’s insurance policy in case there is un/underinsured motorist coverage.

What differentiates you from other lawyers in your community?
I am directly available to my clients and always take the time to talk to them and tell them what to expect. I do not push the majority of work onto young and inexperienced lawyers. I do everything myself from reviewing the medical records to preparing responses to discovery to attending medical exams with the client. I provide personal service and my clients know they can count on me to return their calls and walk them through the process.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Getting a good settlement for a client who is usually a friend by the time the matter settles.

What are your other interests in addition to law?
I am a woodworker. I built my own office furniture. I am a dog lover. I volunteer and am actively involved in my local Rotary club. I am a bike rider, racquetball player, and swimmer.

Are you involved in your community?
Rotary International is the world’s largest service organization and I have been active in Diablo View Rotary since its first meeting in April 2008. I regularly volunteer at the local food bank and at community service days. I am also a member of the Robert G. McGrath Inn of Court to promote civility in the practice of law.

• Robert G. McGrath Inn of Court
  Contra Costa County Bar Association
  Diablo View Rotary

 I get in early so my clients can call me before work.