Wrongful Death

 The loss of a loved one is tragic. When we lose someone because of someone else’s stupidity, it can be devastating.

Wrongful death claims stem from the tragic loss of life as a result of someone’s negligence. While no amount of money can replace a family member, a civil claim is the legal mechanism used to hold the responsible party accountable for the financial and emotional void they left behind.

In California, the law is very specific about who has "standing" to file a lawsuit. Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60, the people eligible to bring claims for wrongful death are generally limited to direct family members in the following order of succession:

• Surviving spouse or domestic partner.
• Children of the deceased.
• Grandchildren (if the deceased’s children are also deceased).
• Other Heirs: If there is no surviving spouse or children, the claim may be brought by those entitled to the property of the decedent by intestate succession—typically parents or siblings.

Unlike a standard injury case where the focus is on medical bills, wrongful death damages focus on the loss suffered by the survivors. This includes:

• Economic Losses: Funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and the value of household services.
• Non-Economic Losses: Compensation for the loss of love, companionship, comfort, care, and guidance.

Timing is everything. Generally, you have two years from the date of death to file a claim. However, if the death was caused by a government entity (like a city vehicle or unsafe public road), that deadline drops to just six months.

If you have lost someone, don't wait for the insurance company to do the right thing. Call us to ensure your family’s future is protected.

• Direct Attorney Involvement: You aren't a file number. You will have direct access to the attorney handling your case, ensuring that every detail—from the police report to the medical liens—is managed with "white-glove" precision.
• Optimized Recovery: Our goal is to put the most money in your pocket. Because we maintain lower overhead and a smarter fee structure (25% pre-litigation), you keep more of your settlement to cover your medical bills and lost wages.
• The "Net Recovery" Guarantee: We stand by our promise: our attorney’s fees will never exceed your net recovery. If we don't win, you don't pay.

*Net Recovery Guarantee: Attorney’s fees will be calculated as a percentage of the gross recovery. However, Taylor Law Firm guarantees that total Attorney’s Fees will never exceed the 'Client’s Net Recovery' (the amount the client receives after all Attorney’s Fees, litigation costs and medical liens/reimbursements have been paid). If the calculated fee would result in the attorney receiving more than the client, the fee will be voluntarily reduced to ensure the client receives the majority of the settlement.