Wrongful Death Attorney in Pasadena & Los Angeles
A wrongful death claim allows certain surviving family members — typically a spouse, domestic partner, or children, and in their absence other heirs — to recover compensation when someone’s negligence or wrongful conduct causes a death. This is separate from a criminal case and is decided under a lower, civil "preponderance of the evidence" standard. We know this is an extraordinarily difficult time, and our role is to handle the investigation, insurance company, and paperwork so your family isn’t navigating it alone.
Common Causes
- Fatal car, truck, or motorcycle crashes
- Fatal falls or premises hazards
- Medical and nursing-facility neglect
- Defective products
- Fatal pedestrian or bicycle collisions
Compensation That May Be Available
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of the decedent’s expected financial support
- Loss of care, companionship, and guidance
- The decedent’s pre-death medical expenses and, in some cases, pain and suffering
California Law Note
California wrongful death claims generally must be filed within two years of the death (Code of Civ. Proc. § 335.1), and only certain surviving relatives have standing to bring the claim — we can help identify who that is in your family’s situation.
Related Questions
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in California?
Most California personal injury claims — car accidents, slip-and-falls, dog bites, and similar cases — must be filed within two years of the date of injury under Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. Wrongful death claims generally follow the same two-year rule, measured from the date of death. There are important exceptions: claims against a government agency (a city, county, school district, or transit authority like Metro) usually require a formal claim within six months, and the clock can run differently for claims involving a minor. Because missing a deadline can permanently bar your claim, it’s worth confirming your specific deadline early rather than assuming the standard two years applies.
View this answer on its own page →Who is allowed to file a wrongful death claim in California?
California law gives the right to file first to a surviving spouse or registered domestic partner and children (including, in some situations, stepchildren or others who depended on the decedent). If there’s no surviving spouse, partner, or child, the right generally passes to whoever would inherit under California’s intestate succession rules, such as parents or siblings. Because the rules get specific quickly — especially with blended families or no immediate next of kin — it’s worth having your family’s situation reviewed directly rather than relying on a general answer.
View this answer on its own page →Office-Specific Information
Each office has its own detailed page on our main site:
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. This page is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship.
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Free consultation. No fee unless we recover compensation for you — case costs may still apply regardless of outcome; ask us for the specifics in writing.