Wrongful Death Attorneys

Experienced Wrongful Death Attorneys Fighting for Families in Dana Point, Los Angeles, San Deigo, Irvine, San Francisco, and all of Southern California

Losing a loved one in an accident is a tragedy that no one should have to endure. While there is nothing that can truly restore your life to what it once was, the law may entitle you to significant financial compensation. At Neale & Fhima, we help families throughout Southern California hold legally responsible parties accountable for the compensation that they deserve.

In the wake of a fatal accident, it is easy to feel lost. There is a sudden, unimaginable void in your life, and you are not sure when, how, or even if you will be able to move on. Outside of your loved ones, there is no one who truly wants to help you, and from the insurance companies to the funeral home, it is hard to tell if anyone really has your best interests in mind.

Your situation is beyond difficult.

Seeking Financial Compensation After a Fatal Accident

Over the decades, we have represented thousands of clients who have suffered catastrophic injuries and lost loved ones in accidents throughout Southern California. Our experience as a truck accident attorney includes securing financial compensation for numerous victims of:

• Boating accidents
• Car accidents
• Falls, represented by our slip and fall accident lawyer
• Motorcycle accidents
• Pedestrian accidents (with the expertise of our pedestrian accident lawyer)
• Train accidents
• Truck accidents

Regardless of what happened, following a fatal accident, you owe it to yourself and your family to stand up for your legal rights. The loss of your loved one will affect your life for years to come; for many people, securing compensation through a wrongful death claim is the first step on their road to recovery.

Important Information about Wrongful Death Claims in California

Who can file a claim for wrongful death?

Under California law, the following family members are eligible to file a claim for wrongful death:

• Spouses and domestic partners;
• Children;
• Grandchildren whose parents are deceased; and,
• If none of the above are alive, any other family members (such as parents and siblings) who would be entitled to a share of the victim’s estate under the laws of intestate succession.

In addition, the victim’s stepchildren, parents, and any minors who lived with the victim for at least six months can file wrongful death claims as well if they were financially dependent on the victim at the time of death. This is true even if the victim’s spouse, children, or grandchildren are still alive.

What compensation is available for wrongful death?

In a wrongful death claim, the claimants seek compensation for their own personal losses resulting from their loved one’s death. Recovery for the victim’s losses (such as medical bills and lost wages) is possible through a separate claim known as a “survival action.” If you have questions or need guidance, consulting with a personal injury lawyer can be invaluable.”

The types of compensation available in a wrongful death claim include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of gifts and other benefits
• The value of household services that the victim would have provided
• Loss of consortium
• Loss of the victim’s love, companionship, care, protection, and support
• Loss of the victim’s training and guidance

Family members who witness a loved one’s death may also be able to seek financial compensation for their emotional distress.

What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in California?

In most cases, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years from the date of death (though there are special rules for cases involving medical malpractice and claims against government entities). However, it is important to conduct an investigation as soon as possible. As a result, you should try to speak with an attorney right away.

What does it cost to pursue a wrongful death claim?

At Neale & Fhima, we handle all wrongful death claims on a contingency-fee basis. This means that we do not charge any retainer or monthly fees, and you only pay a portion of your recovery if we are successful in helping you secure financial compensation.

Discuss Your Wrongful Death Claim with the Southern California Attorneys at Neale & Fhima

If you would like to discuss your case in confidence, we invite you to contact us for a free, confidential consultation. To meet with our attorneys in person or over the phone, call (888) 407-2955 or request an appointment online today.

Client Testimonial

”Even though the pandemic struck just as we were going into litigation, all the attorneys were attentive to our situation and worked to resolve the matter to our satisfaction.” – Joe Buompensiero (Google Review)