Woodland Hills Wrongful Death Lawyer

Millions Recovered for Families Seeking Justice

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct is devastating, and California law allows surviving family members to seek justice through a wrongful death lawsuit. By filing a wrongful death and survival action, families can hold the responsible parties accountable and secure compensation for their profound losses.

At Drake Law Firm, our experienced attorneys in Woodland Hills and across San Fernando Valley are here to support you through this challenging time. With a compassionate approach and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes, we fight for justice and fair compensation for grieving families.

Why Choose Drake Law Firm?

‍Drake Law Firm has earned its reputation as a compassionate and skilled advocate for victims of negligence, securing over $250 million in compensation for our clients across California. Here’s why families turn to us:

• 100+ years of combined experience in complex personal injury and wrongful death claims.
• No upfront fees – you only pay if we win.
• Award-winning team dedicated to personalized service and client satisfaction.
• Expertise in insurance defense – our founding attorney’s background in defense equips us to anticipate the tactics of big insurance companies and corporations.

If you’re considering a wrongful death claim, contact Drake Law Firm at 844-513-7253 or request a free consultation online. Our team serves families across Woodland Hills, the San Fernando Valley, and beyond.

What Legal Options Are Available After a Wrongful Death?

In California, wrongful death claims allow specific family members and heirs to pursue damages when their loved one’s death is caused by another’s negligent or wrongful actions. These legal claims can help provide financial relief and hold negligent parties accountable. Two types of claims are typically involved in wrongful death cases:

1. Wrongful Death Action: Filed by the surviving family members to recover compensation for their own losses, such as loss of support and companionship.
2. Survival Action: Filed by the decedent’s estate to recover damages the decedent would have been entitled to if they had survived, such as medical expenses and lost earnings (CA Code of Civil Procedure 377.30).

These claims can often be combined into one case. Our experienced wrongful death attorneys can help you understand the best options for your unique situation.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California?

California’s wrongful death laws specify that only certain relatives and heirs can file a wrongful death claim. These include:

• The surviving spouse or domestic partner
• Surviving children
• Surviving grandchildren (if the children of the decedent are also deceased)
• Dependent minor children and stepchildren
• Any other heirs entitled to the decedent’s estate under California’s intestate succession laws

For further clarification on eligibility, consult Drake Law Firm’s Woodland Hills wrongful death attorneys for guidance on your specific case.

Do I Have a Case for a Wrongful Death Claim?

Assessing a wrongful death case requires a careful review of the facts and circumstances surrounding your loved one’s passing. In California, wrongful death claims can be filed if the death was caused by another’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. Examples include:

• Fatal car accidents, including those involving drunk or distracted drivers
• Pedestrian and bicycle accidents caused by driver negligence
• Slip and fall accidents due to unsafe property conditions
• Workplace fatalities involving third-party negligence
• Medical malpractice leading to death
• Defective products that cause fatal injuries (strict liability cases)
• Dog bites or animal attacks resulting in death
• Intentional violence such as assault or homicide

If you’re unsure whether you have a case, contact our team for a detailed assessment and free consultation.

Proving a Wrongful Death Claim

Successful wrongful death cases require clear evidence establishing liability. To prevail in a wrongful death lawsuit, you must show:

1. The defendant owed a duty of care to the victim.
2. The defendant breached this duty through negligence or a wrongful act.
3. This breach directly caused the victim’s death.
4. The victim’s family and estate have suffered significant damages as a result.

Drake Law Firm’s experienced attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation, collect relevant evidence, and build a compelling case to help secure the maximum compensation for your family.

Recoverable Damages in a California Wrongful Death Case

Compensation in wrongful death cases is intended to ease the financial burdens and provide relief for the emotional loss. In California, recoverable damages may include:

• Loss of consortium and emotional support
• Financial support and loss of expected earnings
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of household services provided by the deceased
• Pain and suffering and other non-economic damages

Our team is committed to pursuing the full scope of damages available under California law to help you rebuild after your tragic loss.

Recent Settlements and Success Stories

Drake Law Firm has a proven record of securing substantial compensation for families in wrongful death and personal injury cases. Some recent successes include:

• $2.65 million for a fatal pedestrian accident
• $2.5 million in a T-bone car accident case
• $1.5 million for a motorcycle accident victim struck by a negligent driver
• $1 million for a wrongful death claim involving a utility vehicle collision

For additional case results and testimonials, please see our success stories here.

Contact Drake Law Firm for a Free Case Evaluation

If you have lost a family member due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful conduct, take action to protect your rights. Drake Law Firm offers free consultations and operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win. We proudly serve Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, and surrounding areas in Southern California.

Request your FREE consultation by calling 844-513-7253 or contacting us online. Let our experienced Woodland Hills wrongful death attorneys help you seek justice for your loved one.