Redondo Beach Wrongful Death Lawyer

Redondo Beach Wrongful Death Attorney

When a loved one dies, the last thing you want to think about is entering into a lengthy legal process. Unfortunately, it’s important to act fast if you want to recover damages for the decedent’s loss. You can lean on a Redondo Beach wrongful death lawyer from Shaffer Law. They can hold the right people accountable and secure the compensation you deserve on your behalf.

Wrongful Death Cases in Redondo Beach

Accidents have been among the leading causes of fatalities in Los Angeles County for quite some time. In fact, it’s the third-leading cause behind heart disease and cancer. In recent years, the estimated death rate from accidents and unintentional injuries in Los Angeles has been 4,488 per 100,000 people.

Wrongful death cases can result from any number of incidents, including:

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Redondo Beach

If you want to pursue legal action after losing a loved one, you must do so within two years of their death. If you file outside this statute of limitations, the defendant can file a motion to dismiss, and you could lose your chance to recover damages for your losses. A Redondo Beach wrongful death attorney can work on your case to make sure everything is filed correctly and in a timely manner.

California follows intestate succession laws, which means certain people have the right to file a wrongful death claim on behalf of a victim in a certain order. This right falls to the following people in this order:

Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer in Redondo Beach

While it’s possible to represent yourself when filing a wrongful death claim, it’s not recommended. Navigating Redondo Beach wrongful death laws can be complicated, and you are going to be expected to know how to move through the process if you file by yourself. Instead of trying to win a wrongful death claim while also coping with the loss of your loved one, let our team at Shaffer Law manage the legal process for you.

Our founding attorney, Douglas D. Shaffer, has 30+ years of experience in wrongful death law. He has represented California residents in a wide array of unique cases, successfully recovering more than $100 million in personal injury, car accident, and wrongful death settlements. He has also litigated more than 60 catastrophic injury cases.

Mr. Shaffer is an Associate with the American Board of Trial Advocates. He’s been honored by Super Lawyers every year from 2009 to 2021, was nominated as Trial Lawyer of the Year, and has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report Lawyers. Furthermore, he’s been selected as one of the High-Rated 100 Trial Lawyers in the United States, so you can count on him to handle your case, even if it enters litigation at the Redondo Beach Superior Court.

FAQs

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Redondo Beach?

In California, only certain parties can file a wrongful death claim. Moreover, the state follows intestate succession law, which means the right to file falls to the decedent’s spouse first. If they aren’t married, the right goes to their children, parents, or other immediate family members. Otherwise, the executor of the estate can file the claim.

Is It Difficult to Win a Wrongful Death Case in Redondo Beach?

It can be challenging to win a wrongful death claim, especially if you’re trying to do everything on your own. While you’re allowed to file a claim on your own, it’s wise to work with a Redondo Beach wrongful death lawyer. They can make sure everything is done correctly and avoid any unnecessary delays. Working with an experienced legal professional can also improve your chances of winning a larger settlement.

What Evidence Do I Need to Win a Wrongful Death Case in Redondo Beach?

Winning a wrongful death case in Redondo Beach requires proving misconduct or negligence on behalf of the other party. You must gather enough evidence to prove their fault beyond a reasonable doubt, which starts at the scene of the accident.

It’s important to gather as much information as possible before the scene is cleared away. You can hire a wrongful death lawyer to further collect key pieces of evidence and build a stronger case.

Do I Have to Pay Taxes on a Wrongful Death Settlement in Redondo Beach?

When you file a wrongful death claim, the goal of the damages you recover is to provide for your needs and help you live as normal a life as possible after your losses. For this reason, the settlement amount is untaxable. This allows the compensation to last as long as possible. That said, it is possible for the IRS to tax specific portions of your settlement, depending on the circumstances.

Consult a Redondo Beach Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

Navigating a wrongful death case can be painful for more reasons than one. In addition to shouldering the emotional stress, you must also understand Redondo Beach wrongful death laws to hold the right party accountable and recover the damages you deserve.

Our team at Shaffer Law can represent you throughout your case and achieve the settlement you deserve for the loss of your loved one. Contact the office to set up an appointment with a Redondo Beach wrongful death lawyer today.