Losing a loved one is one of life’s most difficult experiences. No matter the circumstances, it is always hard, but when the person dies prematurely because of another party’s negligence—that is a true tragedy. You have not only lost someone you loved, but their death may mean the loss of financial support as well—especially if there is a family with all the concomitant expenses—mortgage, education, taxes, groceries, insurance.
You would give anything to have your loved one back, but that is not possible. However, you can seek financial compensation, so at least you can keep a roof over your head, by filing a wrongful death suit. The compassionate Los Angeles wrongful death lawyers at Salamati Law can help you receive the maximum by holding those responsible for your loved one’s death accountable.
Our track record speaks for itself.
Wrongful death
Not all accidental deaths are wrongful deaths. Under California law, wrongful death results from the “wrongful act or neglect” of a person and includes intentional acts, such as an assault that ends up causing the death of a victim or a deliberate homicide. The most common types of wrongful death cases involve:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Defective products
- Medical malpractice
- Premises liability
- Workplace accidents
- Animal attacks
Please note– a wrongful death lawsuit is a civil matter and is separate from criminal charges and a trial.
Who may file a wrongful death lawsuit?
In California, only certain people may file a wrongful death lawsuit. In order of priority– the surviving spouse, domestic partner, or children. If the deceased did not have a spouse, partner, or offspring, surviving parents or siblings may file. If the deceased did not have any such surviving relatives, the rules of California’s intestate succession, based on kinship, allows other relatives to file a lawsuit.
A strict deadline
In most situations, wrongful death lawsuits require filing within two years. If any government agency is involved in the death, the claim requires filing within just six months.
Even with a two-year deadline, it is crucial to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. Wrongful death cases are often quite complicated, requiring a great deal of investigation. The sooner your lawyer can start working on the case and determining which parties may prove liable for your loved one’s death, the better.
Contact Glendale wrongful death lawyers
When the worst happens, a California wrongful death attorney at Salamati Law can help you and your family start putting the pieces of your lives back together. For a free consultation, call us 24/7 or contact us online.
We will review the circumstances of your loved one’s death to see if it meets the California definition. If it does, we will advise you of your options going forward. While most cases are settled, we will go to trial when necessary. Because we work on a contingency basis, there is never a fee unless we win.
