Losing a family member can be one of the most challenging moments in a person’s life. You may feel overwhelmed and unsure where to turn for help if you lost a loved one in a wrongful death accident in Los Angeles.
We understand how challenging it can be to move forward after losing a loved one. An experienced and compassionate Los Angeles wrongful death lawyer at the Simmrin Law Group is here to assist. While we cannot bring your loved one back, our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers can help you obtain the compensation necessary to cover funeral expenses and other losses.
Get the Facts About Wrongful Death Claims in California
The state of California uses specific regulations to handle wrongful death claims. For example, you have a limited time to file a claim after your loved one is killed. Additionally, only certain people can seek compensation for wrongful death. California restricts wrongful death claims to an individual’s:
- Spouse
- Domestic partner
- Surviving children
However, if no one in the decedent’s direct line of descent can file a wrongful death claim, the right may open up to others. In certain situations, you may be able to file a claim if you lost your child or your sibling. In some cases, stepchildren may also be able to bring a wrongful death claim.
For a free legal consultation with a wrongful death lawyer serving Los Angeles, call (310) 896-2723
Types of Compensation for Wrongful Death Cases in Los Angeles
You might be entitled to compensation if you lost a loved one in a wrongful death accident in Los Angeles. Generally, the damages awarded in a wrongful death case are divided into two primary categories. These categories include losses associated with the decedent’s estate and personal losses for surviving family members.
Losses Associated with the Decedent’s Estate
Losses tied to the estate of your loved one can help you cover the costs of a burial or funeral. Additionally, any medical expenses accrued before the loss of your loved one may be covered. Finally, you may be awarded compensation for the lost income of your family member.
Personal Losses for Surviving Family Members
You may also be awarded compensation tied to your personal losses after a family member’s death. The court system in California may provide you with damages for the loss of:
- Love and affection
- Attention and moral support
- Anticipated financial support
- Household services
A wrongful death lawyer in Los Angeles can help ensure that all your losses are fairly compensated. Start getting professional help on your side now.
Los Angeles Wrongful Death Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Types of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle
Any accident or incident that results in death could be considered wrongful. For this reason, there are virtually the list types of wrongful death cases you might need to deal with. An experienced wrongful death attorney in Los Angeles, CA, at our firm is prepared to help you with a wide array of these claims, including:
- Car and truck accidents
- Motorcycle, scooter, moped, and bicycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Bus accidents
- Self-driving vehicle accidents
- Work-related accidents
- Construction accidents
- Factory accidents
- Warehouse accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Swimming pool accidents
- Trampoline accidents
- Dog attacks and bites
- Medical malpractice
- Nursing home neglect and abuse
- Crimes such as assault or homicide
- Vehicular manslaughter
- Injuries caused by defective products or medical devices
- Hotel and amusement park accidents
- Parking lot accidents
These are only a few of the different types of accidents and events that have the potential to result in a wrongful death. If you lost a loved one to another kind of accident or incident we did not include above, you might still be able to take legal action against the liable party. Do not hesitate to contact a wrongful death lawyer in Los Angeles, CA, to discuss your legal options in the future.
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Responsibility for a Wrongful Death Accident in California
You cannot be automatically awarded compensation for the loss of a loved one in the state of California. To get the damages necessary to move forward with your life, you must file a wrongful death claim against the individual responsible for the accident.
Individuals might be responsible for a wrongful death accident if they caused the accident through willful actions or negligence. Anyone who does not exercise a reasonable amount of consideration for the safety of others could be held responsible for wrongful death in California. However, your Los Angeles wrongful death attorney must prove responsibility to bring you compensation.
The team at the Simmrin Law Group can build your claim by:
- Investigating the site of the accident
- Speaking with witnesses who saw the accident
- Going over your loved one’s medical records
- Reviewing police records tied to the accident
We may be able to negotiate with insurance agents to bring you a settlement after a wrongful death accident. Our team can also stand up for you in court, working to bring you a verdict in your favor after the loss of a loved one.
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How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California?
After a person dies a wrongful death in California, their loved ones typically have two years to file a lawsuit. However, under certain circumstances, the period to file may be reduced. You must file the paperwork on time. Otherwise, you could lose out on necessary compensation.
The best way to ensure that you get the money you need is to contact a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible after your loved one is killed. An experienced lawyer will be able to identify if any special conditions limit the time you have to file and ensure all deadlines are met.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process has the added benefit of putting them in the best possible position to build a strong case. Your attorney will be able to gather any physical evidence before it can become lost or unusable. They can also record witness testimony while the event is still fresh in the minds of those who were there.
Understanding the Emotional Impact of Wrongful Death
Coping with Grief and Loss
When a family loses a loved one due to wrongful death, the emotional impact can be devastating. Coping with grief and loss is a deeply personal journey. Understanding the stages of grief and finding healthy ways to process these emotions is crucial. Seeking support from friends, family, or professional counselors can provide much-needed comfort during this challenging time.
The Role of Wrongful Death Lawyers in Emotional Support
While primarily legal advisors, wrongful death lawyers often become a source of emotional support for their clients. They understand the profound impact of loss and strive to handle cases with compassion and empathy. A good lawyer will listen to your concerns, guide you through the legal process, and help you find closure.
Long-Term Emotional Effects and Seeking Help
The long-term emotional effects of losing a loved one can include depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It’s important to recognize these symptoms and seek professional help if needed. Your wrongful death lawyer can often refer you to appropriate mental health resources.
Supporting Children and Other Family Members
If children or other vulnerable family members are affected by the loss, they may need special support. This can include counseling or therapy tailored to their age and understanding. Your lawyer can guide you on how to address these needs legally and emotionally.
Local Resources in Los Angeles
Courthouses:
- Stanley Mosk Courthouse: 111 N Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012 – Phone: (213) 830-0803
- Metropolitan Courthouse: 1945 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90007 – Phone: (213) 745-3201
Police Stations:
- Los Angeles Police Department: 100 W 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012 – Phone: (213) 486-1000
- LAPD Central Community Police Station: 251 E 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014 – Phone: (213) 485-3294
Hospitals:
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: 8700 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048 – Phone: (310) 423-3277
- UCLA Medical Center: 1250 16th St, Santa Monica, CA 90404 – Phone: (424) 259-6000
Auto Body Shops:
- West Coast Body and Paint: 5040 Van Nuys Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 – Phone: (818) 785-2639
- Jack’s Auto Body Shop: 1101 N Gower St, Los Angeles, CA 90038 – Phone: (323) 467-0393
Remember, these resources can be vital for addressing various needs during and after your wrongful death lawsuit process.
Negotiating a Settlement in a Wrongful Death Case
The majority of wrongful death cases never see the inside of a courtroom. Instead, the victims receive an out-of-court settlement from the responsible party. While reaching a fair settlement is often in the best interest of all involved, it is essential not to rush through the settlement process.
Do not take any settlement offer without first consulting with an experienced wrongful death attorney. For people unaccustomed to dealing with these types of situations, it can be difficult to judge the total long-term costs of losing a loved one. A lawyer can assess the situation you face and determine whether a settlement offer is in your best interest.
If the deal you are offered is insufficient, your attorney can negotiate to get you more money. Sometimes, the liable party is unwilling to agree to a suitable figure. In this case, your attorney will argue your case in court and fight for a favorable decision.
Get Help from a Los Angeles Wrongful Death Lawyer
The team at the Simmrin Law Group can help if you lose a loved one in a wrongful death accident in California. You can reach out to us right away to get legal assistance. We can go over your unique needs today with a free consultation.
Contact a dedicated Los Angeles wrongful death lawyer today by calling us or completing our online contact form.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
