What is a Wrongful Death Claim?
Under California Code of Civil Procedure §377.60, a wrongful death claim can be filed when someone dies due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another person or entity. These claims provide compensation to surviving family members for their loss.
Wrongful death can result from many situations including car accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, workplace accidents, elder abuse, and violent crimes.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Fatal collisions caused by distracted, drunk, or negligent drivers on Fresno County roads and highways.
Deaths resulting from surgical errors, misdiagnosis, medication errors, or failure to diagnose serious conditions.
Fatal injuries on construction sites, farms, factories, or other dangerous work environments.
Deaths caused by dangerous medications, faulty automotive parts, defective machinery, or consumer products.
Fatal accidents on dangerous or poorly maintained property, including slip and falls, drownings, or fires.
Deaths resulting from neglect, abuse, or inadequate care in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
California law limits who may file a wrongful death lawsuit. Eligible parties include:
Surviving Spouse or Domestic Partner
The deceased person's husband, wife, or registered domestic partner.
Children
All children of the deceased, including adopted children and children born outside of marriage.
Parents
If the deceased had no surviving spouse or children, their parents may file.
Other Dependents
Anyone who was financially dependent on the deceased, such as stepchildren or putative spouses.
Compensation in Wrongful Death Cases
California law allows surviving family members to recover various types of damages:
- • Loss of financial support
- • Medical expenses before death
- • Funeral and burial costs
- • Loss of benefits (pension, health insurance)
- • Loss of household services
- • Loss of companionship and consortium
- • Loss of guidance and moral support
- • Loss of love and affection
- • Mental anguish and emotional distress
- • Loss of protection
How Crown Law Firm Can Help Your Family
Compassionate Support During Difficult Times
We handle your case with sensitivity and compassion, allowing you to focus on grieving and healing while we pursue justice.
Thorough Investigation
We conduct comprehensive investigations, work with experts, and gather evidence to build the strongest possible case.
Aggressive Representation
With 19+ years of experience, we fight aggressively against insurance companies and defendants to maximize your compensation.
No Fee Unless We Win
Contingency fee basis means you pay nothing upfront and nothing unless we recover compensation for your family.