Personal Injury
Wrongful Death Lawyers
When a death is caused by someone else’s carelessness, California law lets the family seek compensation. We handle the case, the insurers, and the deadlines so your family has room to grieve. Free consultation. No fee and no costs unless we recover.
Wrongful death
What a wrongful death claim is
A wrongful death claim is a civil case brought by family members when a person dies because of someone else’s negligence or wrongful act. It is separate from any criminal case, it does not depend on criminal charges, and it seeks financial compensation for the family rather than punishment.
California law generally allows a surviving spouse or registered domestic partner and the children to bring the claim. If there are none, others who would inherit may be able to, and certain dependents may also qualify. A related claim on behalf of the estate can recover certain other losses.
What the family can recover
Funeral and burial costs
Financial support the person would have provided
The value of household services
Loss of love, companionship, comfort, and care
Loss of guidance and moral support
Cases we handle
How these cases arise
01
Vehicle crashes
Car, truck, and motorcycle crashes caused by a careless, distracted, or impaired driver.
02
Unsafe property
Falls and other incidents caused by dangerous conditions that a property owner knew about or should have fixed.
03
Pedestrian and bicycle crashes
People struck by a driver while walking or riding a bicycle or e-bike, often in a crosswalk, parking lot, or bike lane.
04
Third-party workplace accidents
Construction and workplace deaths caused by someone other than the employer, such as a contractor or equipment maker.
Common questions
Wrongful death questions
Does there have to be a criminal case?
No. A wrongful death claim stands on its own. It can go forward whether or not anyone is charged with a crime, and it uses a lower standard of proof.
How do you work with the family?
We work with the family as a group, keep everyone informed, and handle the insurers, records, and court filings, so family members are not dealing with them directly.
How long does the family have?
Most wrongful death claims in California must be filed within two years of the death. Claims involving a public entity generally require a written claim within six months.
What does it cost?
The consultation is free, and there is nothing to pay up front. No fee and no costs unless we recover. Call (951) 444-7407 to talk with an attorney.