What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim may be filed when a death is caused by another person or entity’s negligence, whether it be recklessness, malpractice, or simply inaction. Family members of the deceased may be able to file a wrongful death claim. Dependents and other beneficiaries can receive compensation for the support that would have been provided by the person who was killed.

Unlike other personal injury lawsuits, a wrongful death claim is a civil suit aimed at recovering compensation for family members and dependents (including spouses, children, and parents). These claims can be very complex and emotionally fraught. It is important that you speak to an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Fresno, Stockton, and Bakersfield about your case. At Torem & Associates, we can help you understand your options and protect your right to compensation. We understand just how difficult this time is for you and your family, which is why our wrongful death lawyers offer compassionate, personalized legal guidance as we tirelessly fight for your fair recovery and justice on behalf of your loved one.

In addition to Fresno, Stockton, and Bakersfield, our wrongful death lawyers also serve clients and have offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Santa Rosa, and San Jose.

CALL OUR FIRM AT (888) 500-5000 OR SUBMIT AN ONLINE CONTACT FORM TO REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION WITH OUR LEGAL TEAM.

Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim

When a wrongful death claim is involved, insurance companies will usually attempt to reach a quick settlement. Our law office is here to help you during this time so that the insurance company doesn’t pressure you into a bad decision. We know what your case could be worth and will not stand for a big insurance company trying to get you to accept a low-ball offer.

Some of the damages available in a wrongful death claim include:

  • Funeral expenses
  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages (to include future earnings)
  • Lost inheritance
  • Mental anguish
  • Pain & suffering
  • Loss of companionship
  • Punitive damages

Hardships Must Be Proven

Surviving family members, heirs, and beneficiaries of a wrongful death lawsuit must prove that they will suffer a hardship as a result of the loss or death.

Typically, a wrongful death lawyer must show that:

  • A person died
  • The death was caused by the carelessness of another and could have been avoided
  • A family member or beneficiary will suffer a financial or emotional hardship as a result of the death

Perhaps most crucial of these factors is that the deceased was killed as a result of negligence. While truly blameless accidents do occur, many accidents are caused by someone else’s careless or reckless actions. For example, if your loved one was killed by a drunk driver or someone who was texting while driving, you may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. The same is true if your family member died due to a defective product, medical malpractice, pedestrian accident, or any other act of negligence.

Contact Torem & Associates for a Free Consultation

If you lost a family member who may have been the victim of negligence, you should talk to a wrongful death lawyer at Torem & Associates about your legal rights to compensation. The consultation is free so that you can make an informed decision about your situation. We are available 24/7 to assist you and we offer legal services in both English and Spanish. Our firm serves clients throughout the state of California, from LA to Fresno, from Stockton to San Francisco and surrounding areas.

We’ll Fight On Your Behalf

CONTACT OUR CALIFORNIA WRONGFUL DEATH LAWYERS ONLINE OR BY PHONE AT (888) 500-5000 FOR A FREE CONSULTATION.

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5 / 5 stars“I have been in law suit for almost 5 years with Torem & Associates. Not only did I receive top of the line care, I also had attorneys that care. They are honest and ALWAYS there for you. There was NEVER a time they did not return my call A.S.A.P. I think I may have waited 24 hrs. once or twice for a return call, every other time it was within hours. Excellent if you ask me. What is most important to them is you and your well being. How often do you find that in an attorney. I HIGHLY recommend them. I also thank them for all they have done for me and my children. Made a very bad situation bearable.”– Dawn C.