SUMMARY
Michael L. Wroniak is a trial attorney and the managing partner of the firm’s Orange County office. Mr. Wroniak’s litigation practice focuses on general liability; professional liability including the representation of architects and engineers, general contractors and construction managers; and public entity liability. Mr. Wroniak has represented service professionals in matters relating to personal injury, property damage, breach of contract, professional liability, and construction disputes. He has represented public entities in matters involving dangerous conditions of public property, civil rights violations, inverse condemnation and wrongful termination, harassment and retaliation in the workplace. In the process, Mr. Wroniak has handled personal injury matters ranging from simple trip and falls to traumatic brain injury and wrongful death. Mr. Wroniak routinely counsels his clients on risk management issues, including contract development and negotiations, developing strategies and programs to mitigate risk and creating systems and procedures for ensuring proper handling of litigated matters.
Mr. Wroniak has presented numerous seminars to professional organizations on issues ranging from premises liability to claims investigation to contractual indemnity.
Mr. Wroniak earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from California State University, Long Beach in 1997, and went on to obtain his Juris Doctor, cum laude, from Chapman University, Dale E. Fowler School of Law in 2000.
EXPERIENCE
Summary Judgement Granted in Favor of County in Bicycle Accident Lawsuit: Bicyclist sustained brain damage after colliding with vehicle turning left from an alley. Summary judgment granted in favor of County.
Summary Judgement Granted in Favor of City in Civil Rights Lawsuit: Hotel claimed civil rights violations under United States Constitution and California Constitution after the city denied it vehicle permits under its municipal code. Summary judgment granted in favor of the city and the ruling was upheld on appeal to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal.
Summary Judgement Granted in Favor of Deputy and County in Auto Accident Lawsuit: Deputy and his county employer were sued after the deputy was involved in automobile accident while responding to a call with lights and siren activated. Summary judgment granted in favor of the deputy and the county based on an emergency exception in California Vehicle Code and evidence that the deputy was driving reasonably and with due regard to the safety of others.
Motion to Dismiss Granted For County in Civil Rights Lawsuit: Individual alleged violation of civil rights after his home and office were searched and property seized as part of an investigation into the improper operation of a medical marijuana facility. Motion to dismiss granted on grounds that no constitutional violation could be established as a matter of law.
Dismissal Obtained for Architect in Design Defect Case: Store owner alleged design defects arising from improper specifications of flooring and tile material that bubbled. Dismissal obtained after establishing that product specified was appropriate for intended use but material provided by third party was defective.
Tender of Defense and Indemnity Accepted in Negligence Lawsuit: Plaintiff alleged negligent traffic control plan caused traffic accident that resulted in personal injuries. Tender of defense and indemnity accepted by general contractor on the project after establishing that plans and specifications required the contractor to do so.
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
- State Bar of California
- Orange County Bar Association
- Claims & Litigation Management Alliance
- Foodservice Industry Risk Management Association
PUBLICATIONS/SEMINARS
- Mechanic’s Liens Law Changes-Revise Your Lien Forms Now to Ensure You Are Protected in the Future
- Additional Insured Endorsements – Not Necessarily the Protection You Bargained For
- Making Claims Investigation Work for You: A Practical Guide to
“What’s In It For Me?” - Cooperative Agreements: Lessons Learned