Los Angeles Wrongful Death Lawyer
In California, a wrongful death claim can generally be brought by the spouse, domestic partner, children, and in some cases other dependents, under Code of Civil Procedure section 377.60. The deadline is usually two years from the date of death, and six months if a public entity is responsible.
We know this is not really about a claim
You are planning a funeral, handling paperwork nobody prepared you for, and trying to hold a family together. A legal case is the last thing you want to think about.
The reason it still matters is that deadlines run whether or not anyone is ready, and evidence disappears. You can take a first step without committing to anything.
What a wrongful death claim can cover
Funeral and burial costs, the financial support your loved one would have provided, the value of household services they performed, and the loss of their love, companionship, and guidance. A separate survival action can cover losses the person suffered before death.
Working with a wrongful death lawyer in Los Angeles
Our office is at 10850 Wilshire Blvd # 375 in Westwood, just off the 405 and a short drive from West LA, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Century City, and Beverly Hills. Sam Schmuel handles cases throughout Los Angeles County.
We work on a contingency fee, which means you pay nothing up front and nothing at all unless we recover money for you. We speak English and Spanish, and we can come to you if you are still in the hospital or recovering at home.
If you're not sure where to start, just call us at (310) 601-7289. The consultation is free, and there's no fee unless we win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can file a wrongful death case in California?
Generally the surviving spouse or domestic partner, children, and, if there are none, others entitled to the person’s property, plus certain dependents under section 377.60.
How long do we have to file?
Usually two years from the date of death. If a public entity is responsible, a government claim is generally due within six months.
What is a survival action?
A claim brought by the estate for losses the person suffered between the injury and their death, such as medical expenses and lost earnings.
Does a criminal case affect our civil claim?
They are separate. A civil case can move forward regardless of whether criminal charges are filed or how they resolve.