San Francisco Wrongful Death Lawyer

Seeking Justice for Wrongful Death Victims in San Francisco

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is devastating. Whether caused by medical malpractice, workplace accidents, or other negligent actions, a wrongful death leaves families struggling emotionally and financially. If you have lost a loved one, you may have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit under California law.

At Greenberg Gross LLP, our San Francisco wrongful death attorneys are dedicated to helping surviving family members navigate the legal process and recover the financial compensation they deserve. While no amount of money can replace a lost loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help ease the financial burden and hold the negligent party accountable.

What Qualifies as a Wrongful Death Case?

A wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to someone else’s negligence, reckless behavior, or intentional actions. Common causes of wrongful death cases include:

  • Medical malpractice, including surgical errors and misdiagnoses
  • Workplace accidents involving unsafe conditions
  • Car accidents caused by distracted or impaired drivers
  • Defective products under California’s product liability laws
  • Criminal acts, such as assault or homicide

When wrongful death occurs, surviving family members may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death action against the party responsible.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Under California law, the following individuals may file a wrongful death claim:

  • Surviving spouse or registered domestic partner
  • Surviving children or a minor child financially dependent on the deceased
  • Other family members, such as parents or siblings, if no immediate heirs exist
  • The deceased’s estate through a personal representative

A San Francisco wrongful death lawyer can help determine eligibility and guide families through the legal process.

Compensation Available in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Filing a wrongful death lawsuit can provide surviving family members with financial support to cover various expenses and losses, including:

  • Medical expenses incurred before the loved one’s death
  • Funeral expenses and burial costs
  • Lost wages and lost income that the deceased would have provided
  • Non-economic damages, such as loss of companionship and moral support
  • Punitive damages in cases involving extreme negligence or wrongful conduct

Each wrongful death case is unique, and the amount of compensation depends on factors such as the deceased’s age, income, and circumstances.

How Greenberg Gross LLP Can Help

Our law firm has extensive experience handling wrongful death claims. We understand the complexities of wrongful death laws and are committed to helping clients pursue fair compensation. Our legal team will:

  • Gather evidence to support the claim, including witness statements and physical evidence
  • Identify the at-fault party and determine legal liability
  • Negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement
  • Represent surviving family members in court if necessary

We offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay us nothing unless we win your case.

Steps to Take After a Loved One’s Wrongful Death

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, taking the right steps can strengthen your wrongful death claim:

  1. Obtain medical records and a death certificate
  2. Gather witness statements and any available evidence
  3. Keep track of financial losses, including funeral expenses and lost income
  4. Consult an experienced wrongful death attorney as soon as possible

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in California?

California law generally allows two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, certain cases, such as those involving government entities, have much shorter deadlines.

What damages can be recovered in a wrongful death case?

Compensation may include medical bills, funeral costs, financial losses, and non-economic damages like emotional distress and loss of companionship.

How do I prove wrongful death?

A wrongful death lawyer will gather evidence, such as medical reports, accident records, and witness statements, to prove negligence and liability.

What if the deceased did not have a will?

The deceased’s estate can still file a wrongful death claim, and the court will distribute damages to eligible family members.

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact Greenberg Gross LLP for a free case evaluation. Our San Francisco wrongful death attorneys are here to fight for justice and fair compensation.