Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is one of the most painful and traumatic experiences a family can face. A Culver City wrongful death attorney can help you understand who can file a claim, what damages may be available, and how California law applies to your situation.
Contact The Liberatore Law Firm today to speak with a compassionate Culver City personal injury lawyer who knows how to fight for justice.
Why Families in Culver City Pursue Wrongful Death Claims
Losing someone you love is never easy, especially when you know it could have been prevented. In California, a wrongful death claim gives families a way to hold the other party accountable while also covering things like funeral costs, lost income, and the emotional trauma that often comes with sudden loss.
Some families pursue these claims when criminal charges are not filed, and others just want to make sure the truth is on record. If you are thinking about taking that step, your Culver City wrongful death lawyer from The Liberatore Law Firm is here to walk with you, answer your questions, and help you figure out what justice looks like for your family.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
If you are wondering whether you have the right to file a wrongful death claim after a fatal catastrophic injury, you are not alone. In California, certain family members have the legal ability to bring a claim under California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60.
This usually includes a surviving spouse, child, or anyone who was financially dependent on the person who passed away. In some cases, extended family members like siblings, stepchildren, or parents may also qualify if they relied on that person for support.
The law makes room for families who were genuinely affected by the loss, not just emotionally, but financially as well. If you are unsure where you fit in or what steps to take next, we can help you sort that out. You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out. That is what we are here for.
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Culver City
If you are thinking about filing a wrongful death claim, one of the first things to know is that there is a time limit. In California, most wrongful death cases need to be filed within two years of the date of death, according to California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. Missing that deadline could mean losing your chance to pursue compensation entirely.
Below are some of the most common issues that can delay or complicate the process:
- Uncertainty about who has the right to file the claim
- Waiting for a criminal case to be resolved before taking civil action
- Not collecting or preserving evidence early on
- Disagreements among family members about how to move forward
- Insurance company delays or denial of liability
- Difficulty obtaining death certificates or medical records
- Delayed grief responses that postpone legal conversations
- Assumptions that the court will make an exception for late filing
- Missed connections with key witnesses
- Mistakes in paperwork that slow down the process
- Confusion about what types of damages can be included
Speak With a Wrongful Death Lawyer in Culver City Today
Surviving family members have the right to file a civil claim when another party’s negligence causes the loss of a loved one. Your wrongful death attorney in Culver City with The Liberatore Law Firm will help you pursue a claim built on evidence, eligibility, and timely filing.
To learn more about your rights and filing options, contact us and review your next steps with a team that understands the intricacy of California’s wrongful death laws.
