Wrongful Death Attorney in Northern California
Losing a family member is devastating under any circumstances. When that loss is caused by someone else's negligence or wrongful conduct, California law provides surviving family members the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. These cases are about accountability and ensuring families receive the financial support they need to move forward.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim
Under California law, wrongful death claims may be filed by surviving spouses, registered domestic partners, children of the deceased, and other dependent family members who relied on the deceased for financial support. In some cases, stepchildren and putative spouses may also have standing. The law recognizes that the impact of losing a family member extends beyond emotional grief to real financial hardship, and the eligible parties are defined to reflect those who are most directly affected.
Time Limits and Government Entity Claims
The statute of limitations for wrongful death in California is two years from the date of death. However, if the claim involves a government entity, such as a city, county, or state agency like Caltrans, you may have as little as six months to file an administrative claim before you can bring a lawsuit. Missing these deadlines means losing your right to recover. This is why it is critical to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after a wrongful death occurs.
Damages in Wrongful Death Cases
Families may recover damages for funeral and burial expenses, medical costs incurred before death, the loss of the deceased's expected financial support and income, the value of lost household services, and the loss of love, companionship, comfort, and consortium. Courts consider the deceased's earning capacity, life expectancy, and the nature of the relationship with surviving family members when calculating these damages. Every case is different, but the goal is always to fully account for the financial and personal toll of the loss.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death cases arise from a wide range of circumstances, including vehicle accidents, pedestrian and bicycle collisions, unsafe property conditions, defective consumer products, workplace accidents, nursing home neglect, and medical negligence. In many of these cases, the death was entirely preventable. Our job is to identify every party responsible and hold them accountable for the choices that led to this outcome.
Results in Wrongful Death Cases
$2,315,000
Wrongful Death
Motorcycle struck by a car on Highway 49 with Caltrans liability established.
What Our Clients Say
"Jordan of Maurer Law Corporation and his office staff helped us navigate an unknown situation in what turned out to be an incredible relationship. His professional demeanor infused with true empathy and kindness made a difficult time much more manageable."
Our Offices
We serve families across Northern California from four offices, providing compassionate and experienced wrongful death representation.
Lost a Loved One to Negligence?
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