Wilmington Wrongful Death Lawyer
Wrongful Death Attorney in Wilmington, CA
Losing someone close to you in an accident is one of the worst experiences you can go through. The sense of frustration only increases when another party is responsible for the incident through their reckless or negligent behavior. A Wilmington wrongful death lawyer can represent you throughout each step of your case. They can fight to get the justice you and your family deserve.
About Us
The team at Shaffer Law has spent decades representing the people of Wilmington, Carson, and the greater Los Angeles area with their legal matters. Our founder, Douglas D. Shaffer, has recovered over $100 million from cases ranging from car crashes to wrongful death claims. His accomplishments earned him a Trial Lawyer of the Year Award, and he has been named a Super Lawyer every year for over a decade.
Overview of Wrongful Death Cases in Wilmington
Californians lose their lives in accidents every day. In 2023, 21,186 people died from unintentional injuries across the state. The most common reasons include poisoning, at 11,148, followed by transportation-related deaths, at 5,019, and falls, which were responsible for 3,007 deaths.
Wrongful death claims are centered around proving that someone close to you died due to the wrongful act or neglect of another. These cases can relate to a multitude of different scenarios. A few common categories in California include:
- Product defects: These cases can involve the design of products, mislabeling, improper warnings, or a faulty item that made it to market.
- Medical malpractice: This occurred if your loved one died due to the negligent care of medical professionals.
- Premises liability: Both public and private property owners have a responsibility to maintain safe environments on their premises.
- Motor vehicle accident: Car crashes are responsible for thousands of deaths across the nation every year, with some caused by negligent drivers.
- Intentional criminal acts: Assault, robbery, murder, and other felonious acts that result in death can also lead to a wrongful death claim.
Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer
Pursuing a legal case while going through grief can be overwhelming. Hire a wrongful death lawyer to assist you through the stages of your case. Your Wilmington wrongful death attorney can provide key services for your claim. A few ways Shaffer Law can help include:
- Draft documents: California wrongful death laws provide two years to file a claim upon the victim’s passing. A lawyer can draft and file your initial complaint within this time limit. They can also create the discovery documents, subpoenas, motions, and any other paperwork your case requires.
- Gather evidence: Evidence is typically key in proving that the accused party is negligent. Examples include police reports, eyewitness testimony, photographs or videos of the accident site, damaged physical evidence, medical records, and other information related to your claim.
- Prepare your case: After evidence and formal complaints have been made, Shaffer Law can advise you on how to build your case before discussions with the defendant begin. We can point out legal violations, investigate the negligent party’s background, and strengthen your claim.
- Negotiations: The vast majority of personal injury claims, which include wrongful death cases, are resolved before reaching trial. Your legal counsel can advocate for you throughout negotiations, pushing for the settlement you deserve.
- Litigation: If your case proceeds to trial, we can represent you both in and out of the courtroom. We can fight to prove in court that your loved one’s death was caused by another person.
FAQs
What Can a Settlement Cover in a Wilmington, CA Wrongful Death Case?
Settlements for a wrongful death claim in Wilmington, CA, can cover a wide range of damages, which will vary on a case-by-case basis. The first category is economic damages, which details the direct financial impact the death had on you, such as medical costs, funeral expenses, and a loss of monetary support. Non-economic compensation pertains to the emotional hardships and trauma that come with losing someone.
A settlement cannot replace a loved one, but it can ease the burden their death brings.
How Much Do Lawyers Charge for Wrongful Death in Wilmington, CA?
How much your Wilmington, CA wrongful death lawyer costs depends on their experience, the parties involved in your case, and the situation’s complexity. A well-renowned attorney representing clients going up against a massive corporation tends to charge more than a fresh graduate handling a car accident claim. Shaffer Law provides initial consultations, where we can discuss the details of your case and give you a rough estimate of your final bill.
How Long Do Wrongful Death Claims Take to Resolve in Wilmington, CA?
How long it takes to resolve your Wilmington, CA wrongful death claim depends on a multitude of factors specific to your situation. A case with an early settlement may take a few months, whereas one that goes to trial, requires a jury, and includes appeals can take years. Your Wilmington wrongful death attorney can provide a timeline for how long your claim may take.
Do All Wrongful Death Claims Go to Trial in Wilmington, CA?
In Wilmington, CA, most wrongful death claims are settled before reaching trial. In Fiscal Year 2022-2023, the California Superior Courts processed 40,102 unlimited civil cases, which include wrongful death claims. Of these claims, only 269 were decided by a jury or judge. Your Wilmington wrongful death attorney can advise you on whether a trial is needed. If it is not, they can fight for a satisfactory settlement.
Speak With a Wrongful Death Attorney Today
Shaffer Law understands how painful it can be to lose someone close to you. Our team has the legal skills, experience, and knowledge to make a positive difference during this difficult period.
Contact us today for a consultation, where we can learn your story and discuss all the potential legal options for your case.
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