Oakland Wrongful Death Lawyer

Experiencing the loss of a loved one is invariably a devastating event. When such a loss comes as a result of someone’s negligence or intent to harm, it becomes a case of wrongful death, adding a layer of complexity and distress to an already heartrending situation.

A wrongful death claim emerges when a person loses their life due to the legal fault of another person or entity. These faults can range from gross negligence to a lack of action or a deliberate harmful act. While no amount of compensation can genuinely make up for the loss of a loved one, the resultant financial burden can further intensify the impact. Medical bills, loss of income, and funeral expenses are just some of the sudden financial obligations that can be overwhelming.

Having a competent Oakland wrongful death attorney is crucial. An experienced attorney not only provides legal guidance essential for navigating the claim process but also gives you the much-needed space to grieve and heal.

At Wilshire Law Firm, we understand this delicate situation. Our Oakland personal injury attorneys approach each client’s case with relentless dedication, deep empathy, and a steadfast commitment to securing justice and fair compensation for our clients. We strive to shoulder your legal burdens, enabling you to focus on healing during this difficult time.

Why Choose Wilshire Law Firm as Your Oakland Wrongful Death Attorneys?

When it comes to choosing a legal representative, you want a team that’s not just qualified but also profoundly committed to your cause. Here’s why Wilshire Law Firm stands apart:

Powerhouse Team On Your Side

Our robust team of over 500 legal professionals sets us apart as a frontrunner in the industry. We dedicate our extensive resources, unmatched competencies, and relentless determination to serving you. We stand equipped and prepared to challenge insurance companies and major corporations even in the most challenging wrongful death suits. Choose Wilshire Law Firm, and you’re choosing a formidable ally.

Winning Track Record

Our record speaks for our rigor and results. We have consistently achieved top verdicts across categories, making headlines in Top Verdict’s lists of Number 1 Settlements and Top 10 Verdicts in California. We’ve recovered over $1 billion for our deserving clients, standing evidence of our unwavering commitment to justice.

Client Care at its Best

At Wilshire Law Firm, we believe in fairness — right from the moment you walk into our offices. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis. If we don’t win your case, you don’t pay any attorney fees. We also understand that legal emergencies don’t wear watches. Therefore, we are ready to assist you at any time—24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Choosing Wilshire Law Firm means choosing a nationally acclaimed team of dedicated legal professionals. It means choosing peace of mind, knowing we’re always there for you, fighting for your cause with tenacity and integrity. Choose us because you deserve nothing short of extraordinary.

What is Considered Wrongful Death in Oakland?

In the legal landscape, “wrongful death” refers to a situation where a person loses their life due to the negligence or misconduct of another individual or entity. Under California law, a wrongful death action provides for damages to be awarded to the survivors or heirs of a deceased person when the wrongful act or neglect of another has caused the death.

Various situations can lead to a wrongful death claim — from fatal car accidents to workplace incidents and catastrophic construction accidents. Essentially, any scenario where another party’s negligent actions or malicious intent results in someone else’s death could potentially lead to a wrongful death claim.

Navigating the nuances of a wrongful death claim can be challenging. With its profound emotional implications, it also requires a thorough knowledge of the law, an ability to negotiate with insurance companies, and, often, a readiness to go to trial.

At Wilshire Law Firm, we shoulder these burdens for you. Our team of astute legal professionals is well-equipped to handle the complexities of wrongful death claims. We bring a compassionate understanding of your situation’s emotional gravity, paired with a fierce determination to secure justice and fair compensation. While you focus on healing, let us handle the legal landscape.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Oakland?

After a loved one’s wrongful death, many may feel the urge to seek justice. However, not everyone is legally eligible to initiate a wrongful death lawsuit. In California, the individuals who can bring a wrongful death action are typically directly linked or dependent on the deceased individual.

These include:

• Spouse of the Deceased: A surviving spouse or domestic partner can file a wrongful death lawsuit.
• Children of the Deceased: The deceased individual’s biological or legally adopted offspring may undertake a wrongful death action.
• Dependent Parents or Siblings: If the deceased was unmarried or had no children, then dependent parents or siblings can bring a wrongful death action to court.
• Financial Dependents: Anyone who was financially dependent on the deceased, such as stepchildren or a putative spouse, can file a claim.

These eligibility criteria are dictated by California law and uphold the idea of bringing justice and financial relief to those most impacted emotionally and economically by the loss.

At Wilshire Law Firm, we help eligible family members understand their rights and work tirelessly to ensure they receive the compensation they are due. Through our relentless advocacy, we strive to turn the tide in favor of those left behind, helping them find some semblance of solace through legal redress.

Damages Recoverable in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

In a wrongful death claim, damages refer to the monetary compensation that can be awarded to the surviving family members impacted by their loved one’s passing.

In California, the law recognizes that the wrongful death of a loved one can lead to significant financial and emotional burdens on the family left behind and allows for the recovery of both economic and non-economic damages.

• Economic Damages: These are easily quantifiable financial expenses related to the death of a loved one. It could include medical bills, funeral and burial expenses, loss of income, loss of anticipated financial support, and the value of household services that the deceased would have provided.
• Non-economic Damages: These compensate for the intangible losses endured by the survivors. Non-economic damages encompass pain, suffering, loss of companionship, affection, moral support, guidance and counseling, and sexual cohabitation for a surviving spouse or partner.

The aim of recovering these damages is to minimize the financial impact and offer some form of reparations for the emotional distress caused by the wrongful death.

At Wilshire Law Firm, we focus on comprehensive recovery for our clients. We understand that no dollar amount can replace your loved one’s presence, but it can help ease the financial strain and serve as a form of vindication against the party that caused the loss. Our attorneys work diligently to document each aspect of damages thoroughly to ensure every loss is accounted for and adequately compensated.

How Wilshire Law Firm Can Help in a Wrongful Death Case

The sudden death of a loved one can not only emotionally devastate a family but also plunge them into a labyrinth of legal complexities. That’s when you need an ally—an unwavering, compassionate, and battle-hardened team by your side. You need an experienced Oakland wrongful death lawyer. 

Simplified Legal Processes

With a sea of complex procedures, legal jargon, and timelines, wrongful death claims can be challenging to navigate. Our attorneys simplify this process, guiding you through every step and ensuring you’re aware of your rights and informed of all your options.

Dedicated Advocacy

Your cause is our mission. We serve as your steadfast representative in and out of court, handling all communication with the other parties involved and ensuring that your interests are never compromised.

Evidence Gathering

Successful claims rely on strong evidence. This could involve procuring medical records, accident reports, witness testimonies, and employing outside experts to fortify your case. Our team knows where to look, what to look for, and how to assemble a case that stands up to scrutiny.

Negotiating Compensation

Insurance companies are known for their hardball tactics to minimize payout. Armed with decades of experience, our attorneys are formidable negotiators. We ensure you receive a fair settlement that fully accounts for the losses you have endured.

Emotional Support

We are more than your legal representatives. We are your support system in times of crisis. Our team offers much-needed assurance, patient listening, and empathetic guidance, reminding you that you’re not alone in this journey.

At Wilshire Law Firm, we are here to shoulder the burden of your claim while you focus on what truly matters—healing and rebuilding. Let us fight your legal battles while you take steps toward finding peace.

How Long Will It Take to Settle a Wrongful Death Claim? 

The timeline for a wrongful death lawsuit can vary greatly. It depends on several factors, such as the investigation duration, the court’s schedule, and the proceedings of negotiation. Your lawyer will keep you informed of every development in your case and ensure prompt filing of your claim to help the process go smoothly. 

Will My Case Go to Trial? 

Not all wrongful death cases go to trial. Many cases are settled during the negotiation phase. However, if a fair settlement isn’t reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court.

Why Do I Need a Wrongful Death Attorney? 

Wrongful death claims can be complex, and handling them requires experience and knowledge of the law. Insurance companies have teams of skilled attorneys protecting their interests and might try tactics to give you less than you deserve. An experienced attorney ensures your rights are protected and increases your chances of getting fair compensation.

The Importance of Acting Promptly

In the wake of a loved one’s passing, time seems to both standstill and rush by simultaneously. While it’s crucial to lend yourself the space to grieve, you must also be cognizant of the legal timelines that apply to a wrongful death claim.

According to California statutes, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed within two years from the date of the death. There are provisions for shorter timelines if the claim involves a government entity. Essentially, the clock starts ticking from the moment of death, and any delay in filing can jeopardize your right to compensation.

While this might seem overwhelming, remember you’re not alone. At Wilshire Law Firm, we understand the importance of both timely action and gentle healing. Once you entrust us with your case, we are prompt in gathering evidence, documenting your claim, and ensuring all legal procedures are meticulously followed within the dictated timelines.

Don’t Delay in Calling an Experienced Wrongful Death Attorney in Oakland

The loss of a loved one in a wrongful death situation is an acutely painful experience. Amid your journey of grief and recovery, the last thing you need is the added weight of legal complexities. That’s exactly why Wilshire Law Firm exists: to stand by your side, offer strong advocacy, and tirelessly fight for the justice your loved one deserves while you focus on healing.

Don’t allow the wrongdoing that led to your loved one’s wrongful death to go unanswered. Reach out to Wilshire Law Firm today, and together, let’s fight for justice and fairness. Call us today at (415) 704-9912 or visit our office at 510 49th Street #214, Oakland, CA, 94609, to take the first step towards healing.

Our Oakland Office Location

Wilshire Law Firm
Oakland
510 49th St. #214
Oakland, CA 94609
Tel: (415) 704-9912

Open Mon – Sun
Available 24 Hours
by Appointment Only