Downey Wrongful Death Lawyer

The tragic loss of a loved one because of another person’s negligence represents unimaginable hardship and stress. An experienced Downey wrongful death lawyer is essential in helping families understand their legal rights while guiding them through court proceedings to obtain their rightfully deserved compensation.

At Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, we stand by families in Downey, helping them understand their rights and fight for the justice and compensation they deserve.

Families in Downey who suffer this type of loss often experience overwhelming grief, along with significant financial and legal burdens. Under California law, surviving family members have the right to file wrongful death claims to seek justice and financial compensation for their loss. When a death occurs due to a car accident, medical malpractice, or a workplace incident, holding the responsible party accountable can be a meaningful step toward closure.

In FY 2022-23, there were a total of 40,102 statewide filings for motor vehicle personal injury, property damage, and wrongful death in the Superior Courts. In Los Angeles County, there were 17,422 filings.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Downey

Different preventable situations can result in wrongful deaths throughout Downey. Fatal car accidents occur on major roads, including Firestone Boulevard and the I-605 freeway. Defective products combined with unsafe work environments make medical negligence a common cause.

Wrongful death law enables victims to pursue accountability from those who caused the death. Any incident with a negligent driver or careless employer, or dangerous property condition requires prompt legal action to protect your rights and develop a strong recovery case. Knowing what situations can cause wrongful deaths helps families understand when they can take legal action.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

California law specifies that only certain people have the legal standing to bring forward a wrongful death claim. Immediate family members, such as the surviving spouse, domestic partner, and children of the deceased person, hold this right.

When immediate family members are not available to file for wrongful death in California, the right to file may extend to people who would receive property through intestate succession laws, including parents and siblings. Individuals who rely financially on the deceased person for support might become eligible claimants. You need to establish your legal standing before you can move forward with a claim. Understanding who can file a claim is important so families know their rights.

Compensation Available in Wrongful Death Cases

Wrongful death claims enable families to obtain compensation for economic losses and non-economic losses. The economic damages in a wrongful death case consist of funeral and burial expenses as well as medical expenses that arose from the fatal injury. Potential lost income the deceased would have earned also falls into the category of economic damages.

Non-economic damages address the emotional consequences of the loss, which include the loss of companionship as well as guidance and emotional support. Although money cannot bring back a loved one who has passed away, obtaining financial recovery helps minimize the hardships created by their unexpected death.

The value of a claim depends on several factors that courts examine, including how old the deceased was, their income level, and their relationship with surviving family members.

Contact a Downey Wrongful Death Lawyer

The unexpected loss of a loved one because of someone else’s negligence can cause profound heartache and transform your life. Legal action doesn’t alleviate grief but provides financial support along with a sense of justice. The state of California provides particular legal rights to families who have suffered a wrongful death, but imposes stringent deadlines and required procedures.

The seasoned lawyers at Heimanson & Wolf, LLP are available to help you through this process with understanding and transparency. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you pursue the justice your family deserves.