If you purchased a new vehicle and live in Arvin, California, Law Republic APC can help you understand your options under California’s lemon law. A defective new vehicle can derail your daily life, cause unexpected costs, and create safety concerns. Our Arvin-focused page explains common defects, what counts as a qualifying problem under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, and the steps vehicle owners typically take when pursuing a remedy. We encourage Arvin residents to document problems, keep service records, and call our office at 818-532-5323 to discuss the situation and evaluate possible next steps specific to Kern County circumstances.
Many vehicle owners in Arvin underestimate how persistent mechanical or electronic failures can affect resale value, safety, and finances. California’s lemon law is designed to protect consumers who buy or lease new vehicles that have substantial defects that remain unresolved after a reasonable number of repair attempts. This page outlines how the process commonly works, what evidence helps a claim, and how local regulations and courts in Kern County may influence outcomes. If your new vehicle is frequently in the shop or has repeated safety issues, reading this guide will help you make informed decisions about asserting your rights under state law.
Seeking legal guidance for a defective new vehicle can make a significant difference in Arvin, where residents rely on dependable transportation for work, family, and daily needs. A properly pursued lemon law claim can lead to a vehicle repurchase, replacement, or settlement that compensates for diminished value and inconvenience. Understanding warranty obligations, timelines, and dealer responsibilities in California increases the likelihood of a favorable result. Effective representation helps preserve your rights, ensures thorough documentation is presented, and guides you through potential settlement talks, mediation, or court action if necessary, all while keeping local Arvin considerations in mind.
Law Republic APC provides legal services to consumers across California, including Arvin and Kern County. Our team takes a client-focused approach to lemon law matters, helping vehicle owners collect repair records, communicate with manufacturers, and evaluate settlement options. We prioritize clear communication, prompt action, and managing the procedural requirements mandated by California law. By concentrating on the needs of Arvin residents, the firm tailors strategies that reflect local repair patterns, dealer behaviors, and court practices, with the aim of securing fair remedies for buyers and lessees dealing with defective new vehicles.
California’s lemon law provides a legal pathway for consumers who buy or lease new vehicles that contain substantial defects covered by the manufacturer’s warranty and that cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts. For Arvin residents, the focus is on demonstrating a pattern of unresolved problems that materially impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety. Documentation such as repair orders, service invoices, warranty statements, and communications with the dealer or manufacturer is critical. This guide explains the typical burden of proof, the kinds of remedies commonly available, and practical steps you can take while repairs are ongoing.
The process often begins with a careful review of service history and warranty coverage to confirm whether the manufacturer has been provided a fair opportunity to repair the defect. In Arvin and throughout Kern County, preserving thorough records helps demonstrate whether a reasonable number of attempts has occurred. Timelines vary depending on the age and mileage of the vehicle and the nature of the defect. Consumers should also be aware of potential settlement routes such as repurchase, replacement, or cash compensation, and how each option might address diminished value and incidental costs like rental car expenses.
Under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, commonly called California’s lemon law, a defective new vehicle is one with a warranty-covered defect that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety and that the manufacturer cannot repair after a reasonable number of attempts. For Arvin residents, that means the problem must be documented and arise while the warranty is still effective or within statutory protections. Typical defects include persistent engine, transmission, or brake failures, unresolved electrical malfunctions, or other conditions that make the vehicle unreliable or unsafe. Clear records and repeated repair attempts strengthen claims seeking repurchase, replacement, or compensation.
A successful lemon law claim generally relies on three key components: proof of a warranty-covered defect, documentation of repair attempts, and evidence that the defect substantially impairs the vehicle’s use, value, or safety. The process often involves gathering service invoices, dealer communications, and warranty terms, then notifying the manufacturer and allowing further repair opportunities. If repairs fail, negotiations or arbitration may follow. For Arvin residents, timing and local repair patterns matter, and careful coordination of records and communication can influence the manufacturer’s willingness to resolve the claim without litigation.
Understanding common terms helps Arvin consumers navigate lemon law matters with greater confidence. Key phrases include warranty coverage, reasonable number of repair attempts, repurchase remedy, replacement vehicle, diminished value, manufacturer’s authorized repair facility, and notice requirements. Familiarity with these terms helps vehicle owners know what documents to collect and how to describe ongoing problems to dealers, mechanics, or the manufacturer. This glossary is designed to clarify language you will encounter during settlement discussions, arbitration, or court proceedings in Kern County and throughout California.
Warranty coverage refers to the promises the manufacturer makes to repair or replace parts that fail under normal use during the warranty period. For Arvin residents, the warranty defines which defects are eligible for repair attempts and who bears the repair costs. Documenting the original warranty, any extended coverage, and repair orders is important for establishing which issues fall under the manufacturer’s responsibility. Warranty language can vary, so reviewing the specifics helps determine whether a defect qualifies for lemon law protections and what remedies may be available if repairs do not resolve the problem.
A repurchase remedy means the manufacturer buys back the vehicle from the consumer, typically refunding the purchase price minus a reasonable usage offset and deducting any incidental costs already compensated. In Arvin, repurchase is often sought when repeated repairs fail to correct significant defects that affect safety or function. Properly documenting repair attempts and losses supports a claim for repurchase. Consumers should be prepared to present repair records, purchase documents, and documentation of additional costs such as towing or rental expenses when negotiating a repurchase settlement with a manufacturer or dealer.
A reasonable number of repair attempts is not strictly defined but generally means the manufacturer had sufficient opportunity to cure the defect without success. Factors include the severity of the defect, frequency of repairs, and whether the defect affects safety. For Arvin drivers, patterns such as multiple visits for the same malfunction or a single serious safety defect that persists after one or two attempts may meet this standard. Keeping detailed repair histories, dates, and symptom descriptions strengthens the argument that a reasonable number of attempts has occurred.
Diminished value refers to the loss in resale or trade-in value that results from a vehicle having a defect history, even if repairs have been made. In lemon law claims, diminished value can be considered when negotiating settlements or repurchase calculations. For Arvin vehicle owners, demonstrating diminished value often involves comparing market prices for comparable vehicles without defect histories, compiling repair invoices, and documenting any ongoing issues that affect drivability or consumer perception. Proper evidence helps ensure any settlement accounts for both the purchase price and the diminished market value.
When facing a defective new vehicle, Arvin residents typically consider informal negotiation with the dealer, arbitration through a manufacturer’s program, or filing a lemon law claim in court. Negotiation may resolve a problem quickly but can leave consumers with less leverage. Arbitration offers a formal process that can be faster and less costly than litigation but depends on the fairness of the arbitration forum. Litigation provides full legal remedies under California law and can be necessary when manufacturers refuse reasonable settlements. Choosing among these options depends on the defect’s severity, the manufacturer’s responsiveness, and the consumer’s priorities for time and outcome.
A limited approach may be appropriate when a defect is minor, intermittent, and does not affect the safe operation or core function of the vehicle. In Arvin, if a cosmetic issue or brief sensor warning appears rarely and is corrected quickly by a dealer, informal negotiation and continued monitoring might be reasonable. Consumers should nonetheless maintain repair records and watch for recurrence. If problems escalate or persist, it is important to document subsequent incidents promptly and consider more formal remedies under California’s lemon law to protect consumer rights.
If the manufacturer consistently addresses defects quickly and the issue does not return, a limited approach focusing on repairs and follow-up may make sense for Arvin vehicle owners. Timely, effective service that resolves the problem can preserve warranty coverage and prevent the need for a formal claim. Still, owners should keep all service records, request written confirmation of repairs, and monitor vehicle performance. Documenting successful repairs will assist future claims if the defect reappears or other related problems develop during the warranty period.
A comprehensive approach is often warranted when defects persist after multiple repair attempts and continue to impair safety, reliability, or value. For Arvin residents, repeated outages, persistent engine or transmission issues, or unresolved electrical failures are signs that a formal claim may be necessary. Comprehensive handling includes collecting documentation, calculating losses, engaging with the manufacturer, and preparing for arbitration or litigation if negotiations fail. This method helps ensure all remedies under California law are considered, including repurchase, replacement, and potential compensation for incidental costs.
Safety-related failures such as brakes, steering, airbags, or systems that affect vehicle control require a thorough legal response when not consistently repaired. Arvin drivers encountering these issues should document each instance, obtain written repair orders, and consider pursuing formal remedies under California lemon law. A comprehensive approach prioritizes safety documentation, presents a clear timeline of repair attempts, and seeks remedies that address the loss of safe transport, potential diminished value, and other losses associated with an unsafe vehicle.
Taking a comprehensive approach can increase the chances of achieving a favorable outcome when dealing with a defective new vehicle. For Arvin residents, this means methodically gathering service records, documenting symptoms and communications with dealers, and pursuing all available remedies under California law. A thorough strategy helps ensure that repurchase or replacement calculations are accurate and that incidental costs like rental cars, towing, and diminished value are properly considered. It also communicates to manufacturers that the consumer is serious about resolving the matter through formal channels if necessary.
Comprehensive handling also reduces the likelihood of unresolved issues resurfacing after settlement by ensuring remedies account for the full scope of the defect’s impact. For Arvin vehicle owners, this can result in more complete resolutions, including monetary compensation and buybacks tailored to the loss suffered. Attention to detail during the claim process, such as obtaining documented estimates and expert opinions where appropriate, supports stronger bargaining positions and clearer outcomes, which helps restore confidence in the consumer’s transportation options.
A key benefit of a comprehensive approach is creating a robust record that supports your claim and enhances your negotiating position with the manufacturer. In Arvin, that means compiling repair orders, invoices, correspondence with the dealer, and any third-party assessments that demonstrate persistent defects. Such documentation clarifies the timeline and severity of problems, making settlement discussions or arbitration more straightforward. Well-organized evidence also helps ensure that any repurchase or compensation reflects the true cost of the defect, including diminished value and incidental expenses incurred by the vehicle owner.
Comprehensive representation increases the likelihood that all available remedies under California law will be considered and pursued. For Arvin residents, this means evaluating whether repurchase, replacement, or monetary compensation best addresses the harm caused by a defective new vehicle. A thorough approach weighs legal options, explores manufacturer settlement programs, and prepares for arbitration or litigation if necessary. By pursuing every appropriate remedy and documenting associated losses, consumers improve their chances of achieving a fair resolution that restores value and resolves ongoing safety or reliability concerns.
Keep a detailed file of every repair visit, invoice, and written communication with the dealer or manufacturer. For Arvin residents, dates, description of symptoms, names of service advisors, and outcome summaries are essential. Photographs, diagnostic reports, and emails add weight to your claim. When possible, request written repair orders that list the specific problem and the steps taken to fix it. These records form the backbone of any lemon law claim and help show the pattern of repeated attempts to correct the defect under California warranty protections.
Save receipts for towing, rental cars, inspection fees, and other incidental costs caused by the defective vehicle. These expenses may be recoverable as part of a settlement or repurchase calculation. For Arvin residents, compiling this evidence alongside repair records supports a complete accounting of losses resulting from the defect. Make notes about missed work or other inconveniences tied to the vehicle’s unreliability. A clear accounting of incidental costs contributes to a fairer resolution when negotiating with the manufacturer or pursuing remedies under California law.
If your new vehicle repeatedly fails to meet expectations due to warranty-covered defects, seeking assistance can protect your investment and safety. Residents of Arvin who face persistent mechanical, electrical, or safety-related issues often find that pursuing lemon law remedies offers a structured path to resolution. Legal guidance helps identify whether the problem meets California’s standards for a lemon law claim, clarifies potential remedies, and ensures evidence is gathered and presented effectively. Taking action early preserves rights and increases the chances of obtaining repurchase, replacement, or monetary compensation.
Lemon law assistance also helps navigate interactions with dealers and manufacturers that may be slow to acknowledge recurring problems. For Arvin vehicle owners, this support translates into clear communications, strategic demand letters, and prepared documentation for arbitration or court. Addressing defects through the appropriate channels limits prolonged uncertainty and may reduce long-term costs associated with ongoing repairs and loss of value. Engaging legal help helps ensure your case is presented clearly and that all avenues for relief are explored under California statutes.
Common circumstances prompting Arvin drivers to seek lemon law assistance include frequent engine or transmission failures, persistent electrical or airbag issues, brake or steering malfunctions, and repeated check-engine warnings that remain unresolved. Other triggers include unresolved air conditioning or fuel system problems that affect usability, or a pattern of shop visits for the same defect with no permanent fix. When these issues overlap with safety concerns or substantial impairment of the vehicle’s value, consumers often pursue lemon law remedies to obtain repurchase, replacement, or compensation.
If your vehicle returns to the dealer repeatedly for the identical problem without a lasting fix, that pattern often signals the need for a formal claim. Arvin vehicle owners experiencing repeated visits for the same malfunction should keep every repair order, record the dates and symptoms, and ask for written descriptions of the service performed. This documentation helps build the factual foundation for a lemon law claim under California statutes and supports requests for repurchase or other remedies when repairs fail to restore the vehicle to acceptable function.
When defects affect brakes, steering, airbags, or other systems critical to safe operation, consumers in Arvin should act promptly to document and report the issues. A persistent safety defect raises urgency and may justify seeking immediate remedies under lemon law protections. Maintaining thorough records of incidents, repair attempts, and any temporary measures taken to remain safe is essential. These materials support claims that the defect substantially impairs the vehicle’s safety and helps pursue remedies that protect both the owner and other road users.
If the manufacturer denies responsibility or provides only temporary fixes that do not resolve the defect, consumers in Arvin may need to escalate the matter through formal lemon law channels. Documentation showing inadequate responses, inconsistent repair results, or delayed actions strengthens the case for pursuing repurchase or replacement. Recorded communications, repair histories, and any independent assessments help demonstrate the persistence and severity of the issue, which supports a more assertive approach to obtaining relief under California law.
Law Republic APC stands ready to assist Arvin residents who face defective new vehicles and need clarity about their rights under California lemon law. We provide guidance on documenting defects, understanding warranty coverage, and evaluating potential next steps including negotiation, arbitration, or litigation. Our goal is to help you pursue a fair remedy that addresses safety concerns, lost value, and incidental costs. If you are experiencing repeated repairs or persistent malfunctions, contact our office at 818-532-5323 to discuss how the law applies to your situation and to plan a path forward in Kern County.
Selecting legal assistance for a lemon law matter means choosing representation that understands California warranty laws and local practices in Kern County. Law Republic APC focuses on helping consumers in Arvin navigate the complexities of manufacturer negotiations, documentation requirements, and dispute resolution. We guide clients through collecting repair records, drafting communications, and evaluating settlement options while maintaining attention to the specific needs of the Arvin community and local repair facilities.
Our approach emphasizes clear communication, practical planning, and diligent preparation of the evidence needed to pursue remedies under the Song-Beverly Act. For Arvin residents, that includes assessing repair histories, calculating losses, and initiating conversations with manufacturers in a way that seeks timely resolution. We assist with arbitration and litigation when necessary, ensuring that all claims are grounded in accurate documentation and an understanding of California procedural requirements.
We also help clients weigh settlement options and potential outcomes so they can make informed decisions about whether to accept buybacks, replacements, or monetary compensation. Throughout the process we keep local concerns in mind, helping Arvin vehicle owners pursue remedies that address both safety and financial impacts. If you have a defective new vehicle, contacting our office provides a starting point for organizing records and considering the most effective strategy under California lemon law.
Our process begins with a detailed intake to review your vehicle’s purchase or lease documents and the complete repair history. For Arvin clients, we assess whether defects are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty and whether repair attempts meet California’s standards for a lemon law claim. We then outline potential remedies, collect supporting documentation such as repair invoices and correspondence, and engage with the manufacturer in demand letters or settlement negotiations. If negotiation does not resolve the matter, we prepare for arbitration or court to pursue repurchase, replacement, or compensation.
The first step is a comprehensive evaluation of your vehicle’s purchase paperwork, warranty documents, and repair records. For Arvin residents, assembling invoices, service orders, and written communications with dealers helps determine whether the defect is warranty-covered and whether sufficient repair attempts have been made. During this phase we advise on any additional evidence to obtain, such as diagnostic reports or photos, and prepare the documentation necessary to present a clear, organized claim to the manufacturer or an arbitrator.
We carefully review the manufacturer’s warranty, any extended coverage, and all available service history to identify which defects are covered and the chronology of repair attempts. For Arvin clients, understanding warranty terms and how repair visits were handled locally informs whether the issue likely qualifies as a lemon law claim. This review often exposes gaps in documentation that can be remedied by requesting missing records from dealers or service facilities.
Part of the initial phase includes collecting receipts and records for expenses related to the defective vehicle, such as towing, rental cars, and inspection fees. Arvin consumers should compile these documents to support claims for incidental costs that may be recoverable. Clear, dated receipts and correlated repair orders strengthen the case for full compensation when negotiating repurchase or settlement with the manufacturer.
After documentation is organized, we draft and deliver a formal demand to the manufacturer outlining the defect history and the remedies sought under California lemon law. For Arvin residents, this step often prompts discussions with the manufacturer or dealer that can lead to repurchase, replacement, or settlement without further proceedings. We negotiate to maximize the remedy and ensure any offer adequately accounts for purchase price, mileage offsets, and incidental costs, while protecting your interests throughout the settlement dialogue.
The formal demand letter presents the documented repair history, outlines why the defect meets lemon law criteria, and requests a specific remedy such as repurchase or replacement. For consumers in Arvin, a well-crafted demand letter signals seriousness and invites a manufacturer response. This written step often sets the stage for negotiation and clarifies the evidence supporting the claim, helping avoid unnecessary delays.
Negotiations with manufacturers can result in offers that resolve the claim without arbitration or litigation. During settlement talks we evaluate each offer based on how it addresses purchase price, mileage offsets, diminished value, and incidental expenses. For Arvin vehicle owners, our role is to ensure the terms are fair and comprehensive, and to press for solutions that restore value or provide adequate compensation for the ongoing impacts of the defect.
If negotiations do not produce a fair resolution, the next stage may involve arbitration through a manufacturer program or filing a lemon law claim in court. For Arvin residents, either avenue seeks a remedy under California law, but the choice depends on the specifics of the dispute and the relief desired. Arbitration can be quicker but may limit some options, while litigation can pursue full statutory remedies. We prepare all evidence for the selected forum and represent the client’s interests through the decision-making process.
Arbitration provides a formal forum to present evidence and arguments to a neutral decision-maker. Many manufacturers offer arbitration programs that Arvin consumers may be asked to join. We assist in preparing concise presentations of the repair history, independent assessments if available, and a clear statement of the requested remedy. The goal is to obtain a decision that compensates for defects and related costs while proceeding efficiently.
If arbitration is not appropriate or fails to produce a satisfactory result, filing a lemon law claim in court may be necessary. Litigation allows full access to statutory remedies under California law and can be the best option when manufacturers refuse fair settlement. For Arvin vehicle owners, preparing for litigation involves assembling comprehensive evidence, preparing witness statements or expert assessments if needed, and pursuing remedies that address repurchase, replacement, incidental costs, and diminished value.
A vehicle generally qualifies as a lemon if it has a warranty-covered defect that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety and the manufacturer cannot fix the problem after a reasonable number of repair attempts. For Arvin residents, key evidence includes repair orders, warranty statements, and a pattern of repeated visits for the same issue. Factors such as whether the defect affects safety or whether repairs were attempted multiple times help determine if the vehicle meets California’s lemon law standards. Documenting each repair visit, keeping dated invoices, and maintaining clear communication records with the dealer and manufacturer are essential. These materials help show the defect persisted despite repair efforts and support claims for repurchase, replacement, or compensation. If you believe your vehicle may be a lemon, review warranty coverage and repair history to assess next steps under California law.
California does not state a fixed number of repair attempts that automatically qualifies a vehicle as a lemon. Instead, officials consider the frequency of repairs, the nature of the defect, and whether the defect substantially impairs the vehicle’s use, value, or safety. For Arvin drivers, multiple visits for the same issue or a single attempt for a severe safety defect may be sufficient when paired with thorough documentation. It is therefore important to keep meticulous records of each service event and the outcomes. When the manufacturer has been given a fair opportunity to repair and the problem persists, those records support formal demands or further action under the Song-Beverly Act. Local repair patterns and severity of the defect influence the assessment.
Remedies under California lemon law commonly include repurchase of the vehicle, replacement with a comparable model, or monetary compensation that accounts for diminished value and incidental costs. Repurchase often involves refunding the purchase price less a usage offset and any prior payments, while replacement seeks to provide a vehicle similar in make and model. For Arvin residents, remedies can also include recovery of towing and rental expenses tied to the defective vehicle. The specific remedy depends on the facts of each case, including warranty coverage, the defect’s persistence, and available documentation. Presenting a clear record of repair attempts and related expenses helps ensure the remedy sought aligns with the impact of the defect on the owner’s life and finances.
Not all lemon law claims require court; many are resolved through direct negotiation or arbitration with the manufacturer. Arbitration can be faster and less formal than litigation, but it depends on whether the manufacturer offers a voluntary program and whether the consumer chooses to participate. For Arvin residents, exploring negotiation and arbitration first is common, especially when the manufacturer shows willingness to remedy the problem. If negotiations and arbitration fail to produce a fair remedy, filing a claim in court remains an option. Litigation allows consumers to pursue full statutory remedies under California law and may be necessary when manufacturers decline reasonable settlement offers or when legal precedent favors litigation given the case details.
Yes, incidental expenses such as rental car costs, towing, and reasonable inspection fees may be recoverable as part of a lemon law resolution. For Arvin vehicle owners, preserving receipts and correlating dates with repair visits strengthens the claim for reimbursement. These costs are often included in negotiations or in calculations of the total compensation owed when a vehicle is repurchased or settled. Keep clear documentation and detailed notes about the circumstances that led to these expenses. Demonstrating that such costs were directly caused by the defective vehicle supports requests for compensation and contributes to a comprehensive remedy that addresses both direct and indirect impacts of the defect.
The time to bring a lemon law claim in California depends on warranty periods and statutory limitations, so acting sooner rather than later is important. Typically, a claim must be pursued while the warranty is in effect or within a reasonable time after discovering the defect. For Arvin residents, collecting repair records promptly and seeking advice early preserves rights and helps determine applicable deadlines under state law. Delays in documenting repairs or notifying the manufacturer can complicate claims, so maintaining thorough records and contacting a representative as soon as repeated repairs or major defects appear helps ensure options remain available. Timely action also improves the accuracy of documented evidence.
Pursuing a lemon law claim generally does not affect your personal credit or driving record. Lemon law remedies focus on the vehicle and the manufacturer’s responsibility for defective products, rather than the consumer’s creditworthiness or driving history. For Arvin residents, the dispute is between the vehicle owner and the manufacturer or dealer, and settlements typically address repurchase or replacement rather than personal liabilities. However, if the claim involves trade-ins, financing adjustments, or refunds, coordinating with lenders and understanding how a repurchase affects loan payoff requires careful attention. Consumers should notify lenders and review settlement terms to ensure the financial resolution is handled correctly and any lien issues are cleared.
Before contacting legal help, gather purchase or lease agreements, the original warranty, all repair orders and invoices, and any written communications with the dealer or manufacturer. For Arvin consumers, having dated service records, photos of the defect when possible, and receipts for incidental expenses such as towing or rental cars creates a clear picture of the issue and its impacts. These materials greatly assist in evaluating whether a lemon law claim is appropriate. Also prepare a brief chronology of the problem that lists dates, symptoms, repair attempts, and outcomes. A concise timeline helps quickly assess the strength of a claim and identifies any remaining evidence to collect. Being organized speeds the evaluation process and helps determine the next steps under California law.
Lemon law protections most directly apply to new vehicles and certain demonstrably defective covered components, but some used or certified pre-owned vehicles may also have protections depending on warranty coverage and state-specific rules. For Arvin buyers, the key is whether the defect is covered by a valid manufacturer warranty or other statutory protections in the purchase documents. Certified pre-owned vehicles sometimes come with limited warranties that may offer remedies for certain defects. Review the warranty terms associated with any used or certified pre-owned vehicle and keep repair records. If questions remain about coverage, consult legal guidance to determine whether a claim is viable under California law based on the vehicle’s warranty status and the nature of the defect.
The duration of a lemon law matter varies widely based on the complexity of the defects, whether the manufacturer is cooperative, and whether arbitration or litigation becomes necessary. Some cases resolve through negotiation in a few weeks or months, while others that proceed to arbitration or court can take longer. For Arvin residents, gathering complete documentation and pursuing timely negotiations can speed resolution and reduce delays associated with prolonged disputes. If arbitration or litigation is required, timelines extend to accommodate schedules, evidence exchange, and hearings. Staying organized, responsive, and proactive about documentation helps move the process forward efficiently and increases the likelihood of a timely outcome under California procedures.
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