What is the purpose of a wrongful death suit?

The purpose of a wrongful death suit is to provide a legal remedy for the family members of a deceased person whose death was caused by the wrongful act of another person. In California, a wrongful death claim can be brought when a person dies from an injury that results from an act or omission (negligence) of another person. The survivor of the deceased person can seek financial compensation for the damages that the deceased person suffered, including medical bills, loss of income, pain and suffering, and other losses. A wrongful death suit also serves to hold the negligent party accountable for their actions, and allow the family of the deceased person to receive justice for their loved one’s death. In some cases, the lawsuit can also serve as a form of deterrence for the negligent party and society at large, as the case receives recognition and makes it more difficult for such negligence to occur in the future. Under the California Wrongful Death Statute, the spouse, children, or other financial dependents of the deceased person are allowed to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Such a lawsuit can result in a monetary award that is distributed among the survivors of the deceased person. This award is meant to compensate them for the deceased person’s lost income, medical and funeral expenses, and the pain and suffering endured by the survivors due to the wrongful death.

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