Hacienda Heights Wrongful Death Lawyer

A death in the family always seems wrong to the grieving family members left behind, but California civil law recognizes a certain type of passing as “wrongful death,” for which you are entitled to file a lawsuit seeking financial compensation. A “wrongful death” is caused by the negligence, recklessness, or malicious intent of another person. This type of lawsuit is often filed along with a “survival cause of action” to pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law.  

When you call Hacienda Heights wrongful death lawyers, you’ll receive information that greatly helps you cope with loss. Family members will receive counsel on pressing criminal charges through local law enforcement and the District Attorney’s office to see that perpetrators are arrested and receive jail time if convicted. You will also learn about collecting financial recompense through the civil court system. Demand justice for a deceased relative in Hacienda Heights by contacting Ellis Injury Law personal injury lawyers. 

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in California?  

You may be considered a “personal representative” of the decedent if you are a: 

  • Spouse or legally-bound domestic partner 
  • Dependent child 
  • Grandchild (if there are no children) 
  • Stepchild (if you are at least 50% dependent on the deceased for support) 
  • Person next-in-line to inherit the estate under California’s Intestate Succession Law. 

You may NOT file a wrongful death lawsuit if you have lost an unborn child or fetus, as the child does not yet contribute to the household with financial support or services of value. Relatives of individuals killed while running from the police or committing a crime may not claim “wrongful death” unless there is a case of mistaken identity or misperceived circumstances. A wrongful death medical malpractice lawsuit is not likely to withstand scrutiny if the decedent was given a “less than 50 percent chance” of survival upon coming in for a procedure or treatment. If you are unsure of the validity of your claim, it costs you nothing to consult with Hacienda Heights wrongful death lawyers.  

What wrongful death damages does California allow? 

Wrongful death damages may include: 

  • An estimate of financial support the decedent would have contributed over a normal lifespan. 
  • An estimation of the reasonable value of household services the decedent would have provided. 
  • An estimation of the loss of gifts or benefits the heirs could have expected to receive. 
  • The tangible cost of funeral and burial expenses. 
  • Estimated losses of companionship, protection, affection, support, guidance, and consortium.  

As you can see, there are many variables to consider. It is no easy feat to determine the value of a person’s life to the household, which is why it’s important to find an experienced wrongful death lawyer that has a network of expert economists on retainer willing to argue for maximum compensation.  

How Much Is A Wrongful Death Lawsuit Worth? 

There is no “average wrongful death settlement” in California, but a Hacienda Heights wrongful death attorney will be upfront and honest about what you can reasonably expect, given the unique circumstances of your case. Sometimes past cases can provide a ballpark idea of what is possible in California. Ellis Injury Law has personally obtained:  

  • $3 million for the family of a flower delivery truck driver struck and killed by an asleep-at-the-wheel semi driver.  
  • $1.25 million for the family of an innocent man shot dead in his home by police officers. 
  • $985,000 for a medication error that caused a diabetic man to die after treatment for the flu. 
  • $500,000 after a lover’s quarrel led to a fatal gunshot. 

Expert Attorneys Proudly Serving Hacienda Heights 

Ellis Injury Law serves more than 54,000 residents in Hacienda Heights less than an hour southwest of the community. We understand the economic hardship you face, which is why all consultations are FREE and we never charge clients ANY money upfront. If your case is successful, we ask that you pay a government-set percentage of your settlement or jury award for our legal services. If your case does not prevail, you owe your personal injury attorney nothing, but we will do our best to connect you with local support groups that can help.