Losing a loved one is always painful, but when that loss is caused by someone else’s negligence, the grief can feel even heavier. Fatal car crashes, medical errors, workplace accidents, and dangerous property conditions can all lead to devastating losses. While nothing can truly replace your family member, California law allows surviving relatives to pursue a wrongful death claim to help ease the financial and emotional burdens that follow.
At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we help families take the next step toward justice and financial recovery with compassion, clarity, and legal strength.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit brought against an individual, business, or entity whose negligent, reckless, or intentional actions caused someone’s death. These cases are not about criminal punishment—they are about accountability and compensation for those left behind.
Common causes of wrongful death include:
- Car, motorcycle, and truck accidents
- Pedestrian and bicycle collisions
- Medical malpractice
- Construction and workplace accidents
- Defective products
- Premises liability (unsafe property conditions)
If negligence played any role in your loved one’s death, there may be grounds for a wrongful death claim.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
California limits who is eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. The following individuals may qualify:
- The deceased person’s spouse or domestic partner
- Children or stepchildren
- Parents, if financially dependent on the deceased
- Other financially dependent members of the household
In some cases, a personal representative of the estate may file the claim on behalf of the family.
What Compensation Can Be Recovered?
While no amount of money can replace your loss, compensation can help protect your family’s financial stability during an emotionally difficult time. Through a wrongful death claim, you may be able to recover money for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support and benefits
- Medical bills related to final care
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and care
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we carefully evaluate the long-term financial impact of your loss to seek damages that reflect not just immediate costs, but lifetime consequences.
How Is a Wrongful Death Claim Proven?
To successfully pursue a wrongful death case, you must show that:
- The at-fault party owed your loved one a duty of care.
- That duty was breached through negligence or wrongful conduct.
- The breach directly caused your loved one’s death.
- You suffered measurable losses as a result.
Evidence such as expert testimony, accident reconstruction, medical reports, and witness statements can make a major difference in the outcome of your case.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Wrongful death cases can be emotionally draining and legally complex. Insurance companies may quickly offer settlements—but these are often far below what families truly deserve. At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we take the time to understand the full impact of your loss and fight for maximum compensation.
We handle the legal burden so your family can focus on healing, not paperwork and negotiations.
If you’ve lost someone due to negligence, don’t navigate this difficult journey alone. Contact Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn at (310) 209-1600 for a compassionate, confidential consultation. Let us help you pursue the justice your loved one deserves.
