Southern California Wrongful Death Lawyer

Wrongful Death Attorney in Southern California

The unexpected loss of a loved one often leaves families searching for answers. When that loss results from someone’s negligence or wrongful conduct, the need for accountability becomes even stronger. Surviving family members have the legal right to seek compensation from those responsible for the harm they’ve caused. A Southern California wrongful death lawyer can help you pursue justice and hold the negligent party accountable for your loss.

A Law Firm Dedicated to Helping Surviving Loved Ones Find Justice

No one should have to endure the loss of a close family member due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful acts. By securing representation from Duque & Price, you can take a meaningful step toward resolution by holding the at-fault party accountable through our system of justice. Our law firm understands how complex these cases can be and treats clients with the utmost compassion and empathy.

When you work with our personal injury legal team, you’ll never be left in the dark on important developments in your case. We take the time to explain the process and the potential outcomes of your claim. By carefully gathering evidence and learning about the extent of your losses — both financial and emotional — we can determine whether you are restored to the full extent of the harm you endured. Trust our team of seasoned litigators to do what’s needed to see that justice is served.

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Southern California

Wrongful death claims are filed when a person’s life is cut short because of another party’s negligence or misconduct. These cases in Southern California often arise from serious incidents like car crashes, truck accidents, violent assaults, or medical negligence.

In 2023, California recorded 4,061 traffic fatalities, marking an 11% decrease from the previous year, while 128,798 aggravated assaults were reported statewide in 2022. Medical negligence can also lead to a preventable death. There were 648 medical malpractice payment reports filed for physicians in California in 2022, totaling nearly $199.3 million in damages.

Compensation

When wrongful death occurs, surviving family members can pursue compensation for funeral costs, medical bills, lost income, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one. These claims are typically handled through civil court and require proving that negligence or intentional misconduct directly caused the death.

Hospitals such as Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (8700 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048) and Sharp Memorial Hospital (7901 Frost St, San Diego, CA 92123) are often tasked with providing life-saving care. If those interventions fail, surviving loved ones may be left facing financial hardships that can be reclaimed with the help of a wrongful death lawyer.

Common Examples of Wrongful Deaths

Wrongful death claims can arise from many different circumstances where negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions cause a fatality. Motor vehicle accidents are among the most frequent causes of preventable deaths and involve speeding, distracted driving, or impaired motorists.

Medical malpractice can also lead to wrongful deaths when a doctor or hospital fails to provide the expected standard of care, resulting in fatal complications or misdiagnosis. Other common examples include:

• Workplace accidents when conditions or a lack of proper training lead to deadly injuries
• Premises liability incidents, such as fatal falls or fires on poorly maintained properties
• Defective products, including faulty machinery, dangerous drugs, or vehicle parts
• Physical assaults that leave assailants facing criminal charges and civil liabilities

Regardless of the cause, families who lose a loved one due to negligence have the right to pursue compensation and accountability through a wrongful death claim.

Establishing Liability Following a Wrongful Death

Before you can hold someone accountable for the harm you endured after a wrongful death, you will have to establish fault. The process can be complicated, especially when the at-fault party disputes liability or refuses to offer fair compensation during settlement negotiations. The evidence you need to prove fault depends in part on what type of accident led to the untimely death.

A deadly car collision, for example, can require surviving loved ones to collect evidence like photos from the crash site, autopsy reports, dashcam footage, and police reports. In some cases, outside consultants may be brought in to reconstruct the moments leading up to the collision. To prove that the collision resulted from the at-fault driver’s actions requires compelling evidence that demonstrates negligence or misconduct as the main contributor to the accident.

Evidence and Witnesses

When a wrongful death stems from a defective product, the process focuses on identifying where the failure occurred in the supply chain. Families may need to preserve the product, document how it was used, and collect medical records showing the connection between the defect and the fatal injury. Testimony from engineers or safety professionals is often crucial to demonstrate that the product was unreasonably dangerous when it left the manufacturer’s control.

If the untimely death resulted from an assault, the evidence takes a different form. Establishing fault may require police reports, witness statements, medical records, or security footage that proves the assault directly caused the fatal injuries. Civil claims for wrongful death can move forward even if a criminal case is pending or has already concluded.

Why You Should Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer

During a difficult ordeal, the decision to hire a wrongful death lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim and your ability to financially recover following a tragic loss. California’s wrongful death laws provide a path for holding the party responsible for your loss accountable, but your claim must be backed by evidence.

With support from a Southern California wrongful death attorney, you can document the cause of your loved one’s death and tie it to the negligent or wrongful acts of the defendant. Wrongful death cases can lead to compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and even the emotional toll your loss has on your life. With strong representation, justice can come in the form of financial compensation that provides you with the resources you need to rebuild your life.

FAQs

What Qualifies as a Wrongful Death Case in California?

A wrongful death case is filed when someone’s negligence, carelessness, or intentional actions lead to another person’s death. These cases often stem from car accidents, medical malpractice, or unsafe conditions that could have been prevented. The goal of a wrongful death claim is to provide financial support and justice for the surviving family members left behind.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

California law allows a wrongful death claim to be filed by close family members such as a spouse, domestic partner, or children. If the deceased had no immediate family, others who depended on them financially may be eligible to file. In some cases, a personal representative of the estate can bring the claim on behalf of eligible survivors. These claims help ensure that those who relied on the victim for emotional or financial support are compensated for their loss.

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Claim?

Families can seek compensation for funeral expenses, medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional suffering caused by losing a loved one. The size of the settlement depends on the specific facts of the case, including the deceased’s income, life expectancy, and family role. These claims aim to restore financial stability and provide a sense of accountability after a preventable loss.

How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

Most wrongful death claims in California must be filed within two years of the date of death. If the case involves a government entity, you may need to file a formal notice of claim within six months. Missing these deadlines can prevent your family from receiving compensation, as the case would be dismissed due to the statute of limitations. Seeking legal counsel can protect your claim, so act quickly and consult a lawyer early on.

How Can a Wrongful Death Lawyer Help My Family?

A wrongful death lawyer can help your family in several ways. A wrongful death lawyer can manage every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to negotiating with insurance companies. Having a lawyer ensures that your family’s interests are protected and that your claim is handled properly from start to finish. Their goal is to relieve your burden so you can focus on healing and honoring your loved one.

Contact a Southern California Wrongful Death Lawyer

No amount of compensation can undo the harm you and your family endured. If your family suffered the ultimate loss, you can hold the negligent party who caused the wrongful death accountable when you secure representation from Duque & Price. Our law firm understands the complexities of wrongful death cases and can gather the evidence your case needs to prevail.

Setting our firm apart is our extensive experience representing surviving loved ones and securing the compensation that they are owed. In the past nine years alone, we’ve settled 850 claims on favorable terms for our clients. Trust our team of seasoned litigators to secure the justice and accountability that you deserve. Don’t delay. Contact our office today to schedule your free consultation.