Losing a loved one in an accident is devastating. When a fatal accident is caused by a person or company’s negligence, the law gives surviving family members a route to demand accountability. Bringing a wrongful death civil claim allows you to secure the justice and financial relief you need to start moving forward.
Dunnion Law has been representing people who have lost a loved one to an accident since 1975, helping them through one of the most difficult times in their lives. We fight to uncover the truth and expose any negligence that resulted in the tragedy. A Fresno wrongful death lawyer can help you pursue justice for your loss and seek the compensation your family deserves.
Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60, a wrongful death claim can be filed if someone’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional acts caused the death of another person. According to California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim within two years from the date of death to help cover funeral costs or lost financial support. For cases involving government agencies, that deadline can be as short as six months under California Government Code § 911.2.
Unlike a criminal case, a wrongful death lawsuit seeks to provide necessary financial stability for those left behind, rather than seeking to punish those responsible. Whether the cause of death was from a workplace accident or a fatal car crash, your family may be entitled to damages for the emotional and financial losses that follow.
Our experienced Fresno attorneys at Dunnion Law have handled wrongful death claims across California for decades, and we know how to guide you through every step of the legal process.
Under the law, only certain relatives have the legal standing to pursue these claims. This right typically includes the spouse or registered domestic partner of the deceased, their children, and any other dependent relatives. In some cases, this can also extend to heirs who financially relied on the victim.
If you are unsure whether or not you qualify to bring a wrongful death claim in Fresno, contact the lawyers at Dunnion Law. We can help your family determine eligibility and determine whether this path offers the best chance for recovery.
The financial burden and emotional loss when a loved one dies in a wrongful death case can be massive. The most common damages family members can recover for include:
Fortunately, there is no cap on the amount of damages recoverable in wrongful death claims. This allows your family to argue for the full amount of compensation justified by your loss. The only notable exception to this is in the case of medical malpractice, which limits non-economic damages.
While, of course, no amount of money can replace a lost loved one, the financial recovery can help protect your family’s future. It is important to work with a wrongful death attorney in Fresno to make sure you have built the strongest possible case for compensation.
Our clients trust us to advise and guide them about whether to accept an injury settlement or not. It is best to speak to one of our personal injury lawyers who can inform you with knowledgeable and experienced insights. But, in any case, you should not settle until meeting with our team.
See MoreIn California, the insurer of the at-fault party must respond and acknowledge your accident claim within 15 days. Typically, the insurance company will begin their accident assessment which can take anywhere from a few days to several months to complete depending on the parties, circumstances and other details related to the accident.
See MoreIn your search for an attorney, we recommend gathering as much information for your case as possible. When you contact Dunnion Law, we will discuss your needs and the specifics of your case.
See MoreFor personal injury claims in California, there is a time limit placed on the amount of time a person has to bring their lawsuit to court. This is called the “statute of limitations.” If you have sustained injuries in an accident, it is crucial that you file legal action within the appropriate time frame.
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After a devastating loss, you deserve to be met with compassion, honesty, and dedication. Handling funeral arrangements while dealing with the emotional toll can be highly taxing during what is already a difficult time.
At Dunnion Law, we believe in helping families rebuild their lives and seek justice for those they have lost. We will act quickly on your behalf to recover crucial evidence and manage communication with insurers while you focus on your family. If your family has suffered a wrongful death, contact us to speak with a Fresno wrongful death lawyer to learn how we can help protect your rights.
