Wrongful Death FAQs
If you have unexpectedly lost a loved one due to the negligent and careless actions of another person, you may be entitled to collect compensation for his or her death. At the R. Rex Parris Law Firmin Lancaster, our wrongful death lawyers serving Palmdale and Santa Clarita understand that no amount of monetary compensation can restore the love and companionship that has been lost, but it can return a sense of financial peace to families who have been financially and emotionally harmed by their loved one’s death. We realize that filing a wrongful death claim may seem like a daunting task, so our lawyers near Palmdale and Santa Clarita have compiled this list of frequently asked questions to help you in your search for information. Don’t hesitate to contact our Lancaster wrongful death lawyers to discuss the specifics of your case in more detail.
What is wrongful death?
Wrongful death can be defined as the untimely and unexpected death of a person due to the negligent (or, less commonly, intentional) actions of another party. It is an issue that can come up in cases involving medical malpractice, motor vehicle accidents, premises liability claims, workplace accidents, or any other type of fatal personal injury. A person can also be wrongfully killed in instances involving intentional violence, such as in the case of murder.
Who can sue for wrongful death?
In California, immediate family members, including spouses, children, stepchildren, and parents, are entitled to appoint a personal representative to their loved one’s estate and bring a wrongful death claim against the person or persons responsible for their loved one’s passing. It is recommended that families contact our wrongful death lawyers as soon as possible to expedite the legal process and ensure a positive outcome.
What kind of damages can be collected in a wrongful death case?
Damages are calculated based on several factors:
- The deceased’s wages at the time of death
- The future earning potential of the deceased
- The health, life expectancy, and age of the deceased before death
- The losses of insurance benefits, wages or salary, love, companionship, comfort, and support that surviving family members face
Our Lancaster wrongful death lawyers serving residents in Palmdale, Santa Clarita, and surrounding areas understand that this is a difficult time for you and your family. Through hard work and dedication, we can help you obtain the monetary compensation you deserve.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in California?
Surviving relatives must file a wrongful death claim within one year of their loved one’s death. If the death was caused by medical malpractice or exposure to asbestos, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim may be extended as necessary.
Although we know that this is an emotionally trying time for your family to go through, it is important to pursue legal action in a timely manner. It is beneficial for surviving parties to contact our team of wrongful death lawyers soon after the death occurs so that we can bring the full force of the law against those responsible.
Contact Our Wrongful Death Lawyers near Santa Clarita and Palmdale
Our team of Lancaster wrongful death lawyers is committed to bringing your family the justice it deserves after suffering the unforeseen death of a loved one. Contact our wrongful death lawyers near Palmdale and Santa Clarita for help through this difficult time.