San Diego Wrongful Death Lawyer: Seeking Justice For Your Loss

Losing a loved one because of someone else’s mistake is painful. A lawsuit cannot replace them, but it can help families find justice and financial support for the future.

At Chihak & Associates, we are attorneys who assist San Diego families with wrongful death cases caused by car crashes, unsafe properties, medical mistakes and other careless actions. We collaborate with experts in economics and medicine to assess the full impact of each loss, including lost income, household support and emotional care. With our collective decades of courtroom experience, we handle every case thoughtfully and precisely.

Who Can File A Wrongful Death Lawsuit In California?

In California, the surviving spouse, domestic partner or children of the deceased have the main right to file a wrongful death claim. Other relatives, such as parents or stepchildren, can file only if they depended on the deceased for financial support.

Typically, you must file a wrongful death claim within two years of the date of death. However, if medical malpractice caused the death, you will face a shorter deadline, often one year from when you discovered the issue.

Establishing Negligence And Recoverable Damages

To succeed in a case, you must prove that someone’s negligence caused the death and resulted in losses. Evidence such as police reports, expert opinions and financial records can demonstrate lost income or support. This evidence will help build a strong case for your family’s compensation.

Compensation in a wrongful death claim covers the family’s losses, such as lost financial support, funeral expenses, and the loss of love and companionship. The estate can file a separate claim, known as a survival action, to recover medical bills incurred prior to the death. In cases of extreme misconduct, courts may award additional damages.

Legal Support For Grieving Families

At our firm, we assist families in holding those responsible accountable and obtaining the support they need to move forward. Call Chihak & Associates at 858-481-7252 or send us a message online to speak with an experienced wrongful death lawyer in San Diego about your case.