Los Angeles Wrongful Death Lawyers

What Should I Do After a Wrongful Death in Los Angeles?

Losing a loved one is heartbreaking, and knowing what steps to take after a wrongful death can help safeguard your family’s rights and future. Here’s what to do:

• Lean on family, friends, or counselors for emotional support during this challenging time.
• Obtain a copy of the death certificate and any medical records to establish the cause and circumstances of the passing.
• Report the incident to the appropriate authorities, such as the Los Angeles Police Department, if there are suspicious or unlawful circumstances.
• Gather relevant information, including witness statements, photos, or video evidence, to support your case.
• Avoid discussing the case or accepting settlement offers from insurance companies until you consult with an attorney.
• Speak with an experienced Los Angeles wrongful death lawyer to understand your legal options and protect your family’s rights.

At Thompson Law, we know how overwhelming this time can be. Our caring team is here to manage the legal process, take care of the details, and fight for justice for your loved one. Contact us today for compassionate support and guidance.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

California law outlines who is allowed to file a wrongful death claim. These individuals are typically close family members or dependents of the deceased, ensuring that those most affected by the loss can seek justice and compensation.

The following parties may file a wrongful death claim in California:

• A surviving spouse or registered domestic partner of the deceased has the primary right to file a claim
• Biological and legally adopted children of the deceased are eligible to file. If no spouse or children exist, the right may extend to other parties
• Parents of the deceased may file a claim when there is no surviving spouse, domestic partner, or children
• Legal heirs who would inherit under California’s intestacy laws may file if there are no immediate family members
• Financial dependents, such as stepchildren or others who relied on the deceased for financial support, may also qualify

Filing a wrongful death claim can be emotionally and legally challenging. Consulting an experienced Los Angeles wrongful death lawyer ensures that all eligible parties are represented and that your rights are protected.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death in LA

Wrongful deaths occur due to negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm. Common causes include:

• Car accidents caused by distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence.
• Medical malpractice involving misdiagnosis, surgical errors, or improper treatment.
• Workplace accidents resulting from unsafe conditions or lack of proper training.
• Defective products that fail to meet safety standards.
• Criminal acts such as assaults or other violent crimes.

Our legal team will thoroughly investigate your case to identify negligence or wrongdoing and build a strong claim for justice and compensation.

Who is Liable in a Wrongful Death Case in LA?

Determining liability in a wrongful death case involves identifying all parties responsible for your loved one’s passing. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Negligent individuals, such as a reckless driver, healthcare provider, or employer.
• Product manufacturers if a defective product contributed to the death.
• Property owners who failed to address hazardous conditions on their premises.
• Government entities responsible for maintaining safe roadways or public spaces.

Our wrongful death lawyers in Los Angeles will investigate all aspects of your case to uncover liable parties and hold them accountable.

Determining Fault in a Wrongful Death Case

Proving fault in a wrongful death case involves a thorough investigation and strong evidence to establish negligence. Key types of evidence include:

• Statements from witnesses
• Police reports or official incident documentation
• Photos or video footage of the accident scene
• Medical and forensic records connecting the death to the incident

To prove negligence, your legal team must show that the responsible party:

• Had a duty of care toward your loved one
• Breached that duty through reckless or negligent behavior
• Directly caused the fatal incident due to their actions
• Created damages, such as emotional and financial hardships for the surviving family

At Thompson Law, we are committed to building a strong case to pursue justice and fair compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation.

How Can a LA Wrongful Death Attorney Help?

Our Los Angeles wrongful death attorneys at Thompson Law bring experience, compassion, and dedication to handling even the most challenging cases. We thoroughly investigate every aspect to determine who is responsible for your loved one’s death. From beginning to end, we provide guidance through the legal process and help you understand your rights under California law.

To build a strong case, our team gathers and analyzes key evidence, such as:

• Statements from eyewitnesses
• Police and incident reports
• Expert testimony from medical and accident reconstruction specialists
• Medical records and autopsy results
• Photos or video footage of the scene
• Proof of unsafe conditions or negligence

Every wrongful death case is unique, and our deep understanding of California laws allows us to handle complex claims effectively. Let us fight for justice and work to secure the compensation your family needs and deserves.

Why Choose Thompson Law?

Choosing the right legal team is essential when seeking justice for your loved one’s wrongful death. At Thompson Law, we are committed to providing exceptional support and achieving results for families during this challenging time. Here is why families in Los Angeles choose us:

• No fees unless we win. We work on a contingency basis so you only pay if we win your case and recover compensation for you
• Proven results with over $1.9 billion recovered for our clients, we have the expertise to deliver successful outcomes
• Fast and simple process. Start your case with a single call; we’re available anytime. Consult with a lawyer immediately and begin your claim without delay
• 24/7 availability. Legal emergencies can arise at any time, and our team is here to help whenever you need us
• Personalized support. We treat each client with care and respect, keeping you informed and updated throughout the process
• Bilingual services. We provide Spanish-language support, ensuring Spanish-speaking families can access justice without language barriers

At Thompson Law, our goal is to secure maximum compensation for families facing the loss of a loved one. From investigating the circumstances to negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to trial, we handle every detail so you can focus on healing.

Don’t wait to take action. California law sets a limited time to file a wrongful death claim. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our LA wrongful death lawyers fight for the justice and support your family deserves.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring to my first consultation with a wrongful death lawyer?

For your initial consultation, gather any relevant documents such as medical records, the death certificate, police reports, photos or videos from the incident, and any correspondence with insurance companies. This information helps your attorney evaluate the strength of your case.

Can a wrongful death claim be settled out of court?

Yes, many wrongful death claims are resolved through negotiations with insurance companies or the responsible parties before going to trial. A skilled attorney will strive to reach a fair settlement but will be prepared to take the case to court if necessary.

What if the at-fault party doesn’t have insurance?

If the responsible party lacks insurance, compensation may still be available through other means, such as personal assets or alternative insurance policies. An attorney can explore all potential sources of recovery for your claim.

Can a wrongful death claim be filed if the victim was not employed?

Yes, a wrongful death claim can still be filed even if the deceased was not employed. Compensation may include non-economic damages such as loss of companionship, emotional suffering, and the value of contributions to the household.

How do I know if my case qualifies as wrongful death?

If your loved one’s death resulted from another person or entity’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions, you likely have grounds for a wrongful death claim. Consulting a lawyer can help clarify whether your case qualifies.