Long Beach Wrongful Death Lawyer

Wrongful Death Attorney in Long Beach, CA

No one expects a tragic accident to end a loved one’s life. When these unfortunate incidents do occur, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and confused about what to do next. If someone close to you has recently passed away due to the reckless or negligent action of another party, a Long Beach wrongful death lawyer can get you the justice you deserve.

About Shaffer Law

Shaffer Law has spent years representing people throughout Southern California, including Long Beach, Torrance, and Los Angeles, in their wrongful death cases. Our founder and lead attorney, Douglas D. Shaffer, has decades of experience in cases ranging from minor personal injury matters to major claims involving catastrophic injury or death. His tireless efforts have recovered over $100 million for our clients.

Overview of Wrongful Death Cases in California

A deadly accident can occur at any moment and be as surprising as it is devastating. From 2021 to 2023, there was an average of 21,042.3 deaths caused by unintentional injuries per year, or a rate of 49.8 per 100,000. Los Angeles County makes up a sizable portion, with 4,312 people dying from accidents in 2023, or 20.49% of the statewide yearly average.

Wrongful death laws center around accidents where one party’s death was a direct result of the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another. A claim must be initiated by the deceased’s spouse, domestic partner, child, or grandchild. A formal complaint must be made within two years of your loved one’s death or six months if the case relates to a governmental entity.

Wrongful death cases in Long Beach are processed through the Los Angeles County Superior Court system. The branch in this city is the Governor George Deukmejian Courthouse, located at 275 Magnolia Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90802.

What Compensation Can You Obtain From a California Wrongful Death Claim?

The compensation you are eligible for in a Long Beach wrongful death claim covers both the economic and non-economic ways in which the loss has affected you. Damages that may be covered include:

Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer

A wrongful death claim can be difficult to handle on your own while addressing the multitude of emotional, personal, and financial issues that come with a loved one’s passing. Hire a wrongful death lawyer to help you through this challenging period. Your Long Beach wrongful death attorney can represent you during each step of your case, from the initial filing to securing a final settlement. A few services that legal counsel from Shaffer Law can provide include:

FAQs

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Long Beach, CA?

Who may file a Long Beach, CA wrongful death claim is an important restriction to understand before pursuing your case. California Code of Civil Procedure Statute 377.60 establishes that the deceased’s spouse, child, domestic partner, and grandchildren may make a formal wrongful death complaint. If none of these parties are available, the persons who would be included in intestate succession may pursue a claim.

Is a Trial Required for Long Beach, CA Wrongful Death Claims?

In Long Beach, CA, wrongful death claims do not require a trial. In fact, these cases are mostly settled before reaching that point. In 2023, there were 40,102 unlimited civil cases filed statewide, which include wrongful death matters. Of these claims, only 269 saw trial, with 89 decided by a jury and 180 by a judge. Your wrongful death attorney can advise you on whether a trial is necessary to get the results you deserve.

What Is the Average Settlement for Wrongful Death in Long Beach, CA?

Long Beach, CA wrongful death claims do not have one set average settlement sum. The level of negligence, the circumstances of an accident, and whether a trial is required can all influence the final payment. One case where someone is ruled to be completely at fault after a trial tends to result in a larger payout to the victim’s family than a matter where the at-fault party contributed little to the accident and settles quickly.

How Much Does a Wrongful Death Lawyer Cost in Long Beach, CA?

How much your Long Beach, CA wrongful death lawyer costs depends on the complexity of your case, the parties involved, and the required workload. One claim with clear reckless actions and a party that is quick to settle tends to cost less than a case involving multiple layers of negligent parties requiring lengthy litigation. Shaffer Law offers initial consultations to all interested parties, during which we can estimate the total costs associated with your case.

Speak With a Long Beach Wrongful Death Attorney Today

At Shaffer Law, we know how painful it is to lose someone close to you. Our team has the legal skills and experience to fully represent you in your wrongful death claim. We can fight for the settlement you deserve.

Contact us today for a consultation so we can hear your story and provide potential strategies for your wrongful death claim.