If you’re visiting our website after losing a friend or a loved one, our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family. This is a tragic time in your life. While you should be taking the time to heal and cope, you also know that you need to look out for your family’s best interests. Filing a wrongful death claim isn’t about replacing a loved one with money, it isn’t about getting even with the party at fault. Instead, it’s about protecting your loved ones’ immediate family, especially if they are leaving behind young children. We can help, and we’ve handled complex and delicate wrongful death cases for over 100 combined years.
Wrongful deaths are unfortunate events that occur when an individual sustains fatal injuries because of the negligent actions of another person or company. Despite how challenging losing a loved one can be, holding the liable party financially responsible for your relative’s untimely death could help you and your family get back on your feet.
After the death of a loved one, civil court filings are most likely the last thing on your mind. Fortunately, an experienced personal injury attorney could take the lead in your case. Call soon to schedule a meeting with a hard-working Woodland Hills wrongful death lawyer to get started on your claim.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
State legislation advises eligible parties to file a claim immediately after a wrongful death caused by negligence. Under the instructions of the California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60, surviving family members, including a spouse, domestic partner, or children, are entitled to file a wrongful death claim for damages. However, if the decedent in the civil lawsuit did not have a surviving domestic partner, spouse, or children, then a former spouse, stepchildren, or the deceased’s parents may file a wrongful case with the civil court.
If a decedent does not have surviving family members, then a representative for the estate may commence the legal action. The estate must file a case within two years of the death or when surviving family members discover that negligence may have resulted in their loved one’s death.
Claimants must follow all state civil statutes to recover damages successfully. A knowledgeable attorney in Woodland Hills could answer a claimant’s questions and handle the legal work to avoid delays.
Click to Call
What Damages Can be Recovered After a Wrongful Death?
The scope of damages available to surviving family members in a wrongful death lawsuit is often dependent upon the details of the case and state legislation. According to the California Jury Instructions 3921, compensation will fall under economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Monetary damages account for verifiable losses, including:
- The loss of financial support the decedent contributed to the family
- The cost of outstanding medical bills and funeral and burial expenses
- The loss of earning potential, benefits, gifts, and inheritance
- The cost of household services the descendant would have completed on the home
Non-Economic Damages
This category of damages covers the emotional impacts a family faces in wrongful death cases, including:
- Pain and suffering
- The loss of companionship, love, or comfort
- Losing the enjoyment of intimacy and consortium
- The loss of guidance and protection
A knowledgeable lawyer in Woodland Hills could review the details of a wrongful death case and fight to get plaintiffs the maximum recovery possible for their damages.
Schedule to Meet a Seasoned Wrongful Death Attorney in Woodland Hills
Filing a lawsuit against the negligent party will not change the past or bring back your loved one. However, a civil suit will allow you to hold the liable party accountable and provide financial stability to you and your family.
The sudden and traumatic loss of a family member can have devastating effects on your life, but you do not have to face this challenging time alone. A compassionate Woodland Hills wrongful death lawyer could advocate on your behalf and help you through the complicated civil court process. Call today to begin building your case.
Experienced Legal Team Members Could Help
We know that you’re grieving right now. It’s normal to have a rush of emotions. From pain and sadness to anger and confusion, our job is to help lower your anxiety. Nothing can replace your friend or loved one. However, right now you do need to think about your legal options. Protecting the immediate family and children of your loved one is vital. Unfortunately, insurance companies make it difficult to cope and recover. However, we can help. Our wrongful death attorneys can represent you and fight for your rights. Call us to find out more.
We have a documented track record of success winning very large, very complex, personal injury cases. Our wrongful death attorneys have won over $500,000,000.00 for our clients. We know what it takes to protect your family after the loss of a loved one. Give us a call if you want to discuss a potential wrongful death lawsuit.
Click to Call (855) 573-1492
Valero Injury Law – We Make
Getting Legal Help Simple
We’re here to help. The first step is for you to call us to schedule a free injury consultation.
Next, we take time for free to review and analyze your case to see how we can help.
Finally, we will fight for your rights and we won’t stop until we win.
Valero Law Group
N/a