California Wrongful Death Attorneys Helping Families Pursue Justice and Maximum Compensation

There are few experiences more devastating than the sudden and unexpected loss of a loved one due to someone else's negligence or wrongful conduct. A wrongful death claim provides surviving family members with a legal avenue to seek accountability and financial compensation when a death is caused by the careless, reckless, or intentional actions of another person, company, or entity.

Our wrongful death attorneys approach every case with compassion, sensitivity, and a deep commitment to securing justice for grieving families. We understand that no amount of money can replace a lost loved one, but we believe that holding responsible parties accountable is an essential step toward healing and preventing similar tragedies in the future.

What Constitutes Wrongful Death Under California Law

California's wrongful death statute — Code of Civil Procedure Section 377.60 — allows certain surviving family members to file a lawsuit when a person dies as a result of another's wrongful act, neglect, or default. Circumstances include:

• Motor vehicle accidents
• Medical malpractice
• Workplace accidents
• Defective products
• Criminal acts
• Premises liability incidents

To prevail, the plaintiff must establish that:

• The defendant owed a duty of care to the decedent
• The defendant breached that duty through negligent or wrongful conduct
• The breach was a substantial factor in causing the decedent's death
• The plaintiff suffered damages as a result of the death

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California

Under Code of Civil Procedure Section 377.60, the following individuals are eligible:

• Surviving spouse or domestic partner
• Surviving children
• Anyone entitled to the decedent's property by intestate succession (if no surviving spouse, partner, or children)

Additionally, certain financially dependent individuals may also be eligible:

• Putative spouses and their children
• Stepchildren
• Parents

A separate survival action under Code of Civil Procedure Section 377.30 allows the decedent's estate to recover damages the decedent could have pursued had they survived — including medical expenses incurred before death and the decedent's own pain and suffering.

Damages Recoverable

Economic damages:

• Loss of the decedent's expected earnings and benefits
• Value of household services the decedent would have provided
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support and gifts over the decedent's expected lifetime

Non-economic damages:

• Loss of love, companionship, comfort, care, assistance, and protection
• Loss of affection, society, and moral support
• Loss of a parent's guidance and nurturing — particularly significant in cases involving minor children

The Importance of Acting Quickly

• California's statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is generally two years from the date of death under Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1
• Claims against government entities are subject to a six-month filing requirement under the California Government Claims Act
• Preserving evidence is critical — surveillance footage may be overwritten, witnesses' memories may fade, and physical evidence may be altered or destroyed

Our Commitment to Wrongful Death Families

We handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis — you pay no attorney's fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf. Our team manages every aspect of the legal process so that you can focus on grieving and healing. If your family has suffered the loss of a loved one due to another's negligence or wrongful conduct, we encourage you to contact us for a free, confidential consultation.