When a loved one dies because of someone else’s behavior, what would already have been a great loss can become even more painful. Wrongful death is a statutory action, which can provide compensation to the surviving family of a person who has passed away due to the wrongful conduct of another. Normally, wrongful death compensation can be claimed by a spouse or child, but it may be available to another individual, depending on the circumstances. An expert Los Angeles wrongful death attorney will be able to assess the specifics of your case and advise on whether you may have a claim.
As with other aspects of the law, the circumstances in which a wrongful death claim can be made vary between states but, in Los Angeles and the rest of California, it must be proven that:
Even where these points can be proven with concrete evidence, the claim may not proceed smoothly. For example, certain insurance terms and conditions can apply to deaths occurring in motor accidents. This is where your Los Angeles wrongful death attorney’s experience and expertise prove valuable.
As wrongful death compensation is intended to cover damages and losses incurred as a result of someone’s death, it can only be claimed by a person, or persons, closely related to the deceased. The normal hierarchy involved in wrongful death claims is:
In short, yes. If you want to make sure that, not only do you get awarded any wrongful death compensation you’re entitled to, but you get the best possible outcome, you need an experienced wrongful death lawyer in your corner. As no two cases will be the same, your attorney will need to investigate many details before responsibility can officially be established. Dealing with the insurance company alone may be a very trying experience, and could lead an inexperienced person to give up.
After you’ve lost a loved one, the last thing you need is to fight for wrongful death compensation. Rather than taking it on your own shoulders, schedule a consultation to discuss your case with a Los Angeles attorney by calling 310-997-0904.