Wrongful Death In California: Seeking Justice For Your Loved One

When a loved one is taken from you in a tragic accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, the pain and grief can be overwhelming. At Chung & Reynolds, P.C., our legal team understands the devastation that follows such a loss. If your loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s carelessness, negligence or wrongdoing, you have the right to seek justice.

For decades, our wrongful death attorneys have been providing compassionate support and legal guidance to our clients in Irvine and the surrounding California communities. We represent families who are pursuing the complex legal process of filing a wrongful death lawsuit during one of the most difficult times of their lives.

Understanding Wrongful Death Lawsuits In California

In California, a wrongful death lawsuit is a civil action brought by the family of someone who died due to another party’s negligence, misconduct or wrongdoing. The wrongful death laws allow surviving family members to seek compensation for the losses they have suffered as a result of their loved one’s death.

A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit that seeks to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. This can, in turn, provide a sense of closure and financial support to those who were left behind. If your loved one was killed in a fatal accident, an experienced fatal accident attorney can help you understand your rights and options. An experienced wrongful death attorney can asses and help you evaluate your potential claims. 

Who Can File A Wrongful Death Action In California?

Under California law, certain individuals are eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Generally, this includes the deceased person’s:

• A surviving spouse
• A surviving domestic partner
• Surviving children

If there are no surviving individuals listed above, other parties, such as parents or siblings, may be able to file a claim. Additionally, the deceased person’s estate may be able to file survival actions to recover damages the deceased suffered before death. Some of these damages include medical expenses and also compensation for your loved one’s pain and suffering before their death.

How Long Do You Have To File A Wrongful Death Claim In California?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is typically two years from the date of the fatal accident. However, this timeframe may vary depending on the circumstances of the case. An experienced wrongful death attorney can better help you understand the filing deadlines. It is important to consult an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your rights to recover are protected.

What Kinds Of Damages Does A Wrongful Death Lawsuit Cover?

A wrongful death lawsuit can cover a range of damages, including:

• Economic damages: Economic damages include funeral expenses, loss of financial support and other financial losses.
• Noneconomic damages: Noneconomic damages include loss of consortium, emotional distress and other nonmonetary losses.
• Punitive damages: In cases where the defendant’s actions were reckless or intentional, punitive damages may be appropriate and awarded.

At Chung & Reynolds, P.C., our personal injury attorneys handle wrongful death lawsuits that arise from fatal car and truck accidents, a medical malpractice death, workplace fatalities, defective product deaths or nursing home negligence deaths. We will listen to your story and help you understand your possible wrongful death claims. Our personal injury lawyers will guide you through the complex process of filing a claim and help you understand your options. Our wrongful death lawyers provide customized guidance and are available to answer your questions throughout. 

Consult An Irvine Wrongful Death Attorney

If you have lost a loved one in a tragic accident caused by someone else’s negligence, we invite you to schedule an initial consultation appointment with our experienced wrongful death attorneys. At Chung & Reynolds, P.C., we understand the complexities of California’s wrongful death laws and can guide you through the legal process with compassion and understanding.

Please call us at 949-345-1621 or send an inquiry through our website to schedule an appointment. We want to answer your questions and help you seek justice and compensation for your loved one’s wrongful death.