What is wrongful death law?

Wrongful death law is a legal concept in California that enables surviving family members of a person who may have died due to the negligence or wrongful act of another person or entity to recover monetary damages from the responsible party. It provides a means of seeking justice for the deceased and compensating the family members for their losses. Wrongful death lawsuits in California are civil lawsuits, rather than criminal cases. The individuals bringing the wrongful death suit must prove the liable party acted negligently or illegally and that the wrongful or negligent act caused or contributed to the death. If successful, the court may award damages to the surviving family members, including lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses, as well as damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship and support. It is important to note that only certain people are allowed to bring a wrongful death claim in California. Generally, these include a spouse, domestic partner, child, or some other relative of the deceased. It is also important to note that the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit in California is two years from the date of death. Because of this, it is important to contact a qualified wrongful death attorney as soon as possible if you have been affected by a wrongful death.

Related FAQs

Can a wrongful death claim be reopened after it has been settled?
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What happens when a wrongful death case goes to court?
What is a wrongful death statute of limitations?
Are wrongful death cases handled differently in different states?
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What is wrongful death law?

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