Redlands Wrongful Death Attorney

Fighting For Those Who Have Lost Loved Ones in California

Losing a loved one is one of the toughest challenges we can face in life. But when that loss is preventable, the emotional toll can become overwhelming. Families must deal with the burdens of medical bills, funeral costs, and the loss of income that comes with losing a family member. Our Redlands wrongful death attorney understands these struggles and wants to help.

At Dolen, Tucker, Tierney & Abraham, we work rigorously to help our clients' cases succeed. We have decades of experience to help guide your case. That means we know what it takes to help our clients receive the compensation that they deserve.

Contact our Redlands wrongful death lawyer by calling (909) 473-4948 today!

What Is Wrongful Death?

When a person dies due to the negligent or wrongful actions of another party, it is often referred to as wrongful death. After such a loss, surviving family members and certain close associates may have a claim to file for damages.

What Are the Common Reasons for Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

To file a wrongful death lawsuit, survivors must prove that the defendant's actions led to the death of their loved one. These actions must be negligent, reckless, or purposeful, and may even breach the duty the defendant owed to the decedent. The resulting death must also result in damages to the survivors. These conditions often result from, but are not limited to:

• Automotive accidents
• Workplace accidents
• Malfunctioning products
• Defective medicine/medical devices
• Medical errors
• Homicide

Who is Eligible to File for a Wrongful Death Claim?

In California, the eligibility to file a wrongful death claim is specifically outlined in state law. Generally, the following individuals are entitled to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit:

• Surviving Spouses: A spouse can file a claim for wrongful death if their partner has passed away due to someone else’s negligence.
• Domestic Partners: Individuals in a registered domestic partnership can also seek damages for wrongful death.
• Children and Stepchildren: Biological children, adopted children, and in some cases, stepchildren who were financially dependent on the deceased may file a claim.
• Parents: If the deceased had no partner, domestic partner, or children, the parents of the deceased could pursue a wrongful death claim.
• Other Dependents: Individuals who were financially dependent on the deceased, such as siblings or other relatives, might be eligible to file a claim in specific circumstances.

What Damages Does a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Cover?

Surviving family members often have many unforeseen expenses to deal with after the passing of a loved one. These expenses can be an incredible burden if the decedent is the family's breadwinner. A wrongful death lawsuit can help cover economic damages, such as:

• Funeral expenses
• Medical expenses
• Loss of wages
• Loss of child support
• Loss of benefits (i.e. retirement or medical)
• Loss of inheritance

A wrongful death lawsuit may also cover non-economic damages. These damages can include:

• Pain and suffering
• Loss of child-rearing support
• Loss of affection, love, and companionship

What Do I Need to Know About Filing a Wrong Death Case in California?

Filing a lawsuit for wrongful death can be a complex matter. In California, only immediate family members and close acquaintances, such as domestic partners or dependents, may qualify to file. Consulting an experienced Redlands wrongful death attorney can help determine if you qualify.

California also maintains statutes of limitations when it comes to these cases. That means you only have a certain period of time to file a wrongful death claim. This time limit is often determined by the circumstances surrounding your case.

Generally, survivors must file a wrongful death case within two years of the decedent's death. If an individual dies due to the negligence of a public entity, they may only have six months to file. However, it is important to know that there are special exceptions to these time limits. So, speaking with an attorney is important, even if you believe you have missed one of these deadlines.

Contact Our Wrongful Death Lawyer in Redlands Today

Pursuing a wrongful death claim requires a comprehensive understanding of the legal system and a humane approach to the sensitive nature of such cases. Our Redlands wrongful death attorneys are committed to advocating for your rights and helping you guide the complexities of the legal process. We will work tirelessly to investigate the unique circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death, gather essential evidence, and build a compelling case on your behalf. Your pursuit of justice and compensation is important to us, and we are committed to providing you with the support and advocacy you need during this challenging time.

If a loved one has passed due to the negligence of another person, contact our Redlands wrongful death attorney by calling (909) 473-4948 today!