Fullerton Wrongful Death Lawyer

Losing a loved one is one of the most painful experiences a family can endure—especially when that loss was caused by negligence or wrongdoing. No lawsuit can bring them back, but holding the responsible parties accountable can bring a sense of justice and financial stability to help you move forward.

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we understand the weight of this loss. With over 20 years of experience, our firm has fought for families like yours, securing over $1.7 billion in verdicts and settlements. Our partners once defended major corporations and insurance companies, and now we use that insider knowledge to fight for victims, not against them.

A wrongful death claim isn’t just about compensation—it’s about honoring your loved one’s memory and ensuring that no other family suffers the same pain. We handle everything, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking the case to trial.

Your family’s future matters, and you deserve a team that will fight relentlessly for you. Speak to a Fullerton wrongful death lawyer today at (213) 927-3700 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. We don’t charge a dime unless we win—because justice should never add to your burden.

Why Choose West Coast Trial Lawyers?

You need a team that will fight for justice, accountability, and the compensation your family deserves. Here’s why families in Fullerton trust West Coast Trial Lawyers to handle their representation:

• A Team That Works Directly for You – Every lawyer and staff member at our firm works in-house, meaning your case is never outsourced or treated like just another file.
• Nationally Recognized Trial Lawyers – Our attorneys have been featured on major news networks as legal analysts, reinforcing our reputation as leaders in litigation.
• Elite Legal Experience – With graduates from Harvard Law School and other top-tier ABA-accredited institutions, our attorneys bring a high level of expertise and strategic legal insight to every case.
• Proven Success with Real Results – We have recovered close to 2 billion for our clients, ensuring they receive the maximum compensation possible to help rebuild their lives.
• Personalized Case Handling – Unlike firms that use non-lawyers for case intake and negotiations, our attorneys personally handle every step, from investigations to settlement negotiations and trial if needed.
• Transparent and Fair Pricing – No hidden fees, administrative costs, or surprise charges. You only pay when we win your case.
• Fighting for Maximum Compensation – Insurance companies and responsible parties will try to minimize payouts. We fight aggressively to ensure your family gets the compensation they deserve for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost financial support, and emotional suffering.
• Trial-Tested Lawyers Who Won’t Settle for Less – Many firms try to settle cases quickly to avoid court. We prepare every case for trial to make sure you get the justice and financial recovery you deserve.

Losing a loved one is painful enough—you shouldn’t have to battle the legal system alone. Let us handle the fight so you can focus on healing.

Importance of Hiring a Wrongful Death Lawyer

Losing a loved one is overwhelming, and while you have the legal right to file a wrongful death claim on your own, the process is far from simple. Without an experienced wrongful death lawyer, you risk missing key deadlines, struggling with legal technicalities, or settling for far less than what your family truly deserves.

A wrongful death lawyer provides essential support and guidance during this difficult time, handling the legal woes so you can focus on healing. We know how to deal with insurance companies, and calculate the full financial impact of your loss, ensuring that you aren’t pressured into accepting a lowball settlement.

More importantly, pursuing justice isn’t just about compensation—it’s about holding the responsible parties accountable and securing your family’s future. Having the right legal team in your corner makes all the difference in protecting your rights and giving your loved one the justice they deserve.

Our deep understanding of personal injury laws, combined with our meticulous handling of every aspect of a case—from proving liability to securing compensation—guarantees that every client receives the justice they deserve.

Wrongful Death Claims in Fullerton

In California, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing (California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60). This allows surviving family members to seek justice and financial compensation for their loss. In Fullerton, where major highways like the 91 and I-5 see high accident rates, wrongful death claims frequently arise from car accidents, workplace incidents, medical malpractice, and other preventable tragedies.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Under California law, only certain family members have the legal right to file a wrongful death lawsuit, including:

• Spouses or domestic partners
• Children of the deceased
• Parents, if the deceased was financially supporting them
• Other family members (such as siblings or grandparents) if no direct heirs exist

This ensures that those most impacted by the loss can seek compensation. If multiple family members are eligible, they must file a single lawsuit together rather than separate claims.

Time Limits for Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

California law imposes a strict two-year statute of limitations (California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1) for filing a wrongful death claim. This means families must take legal action within two years from the date of death, or they lose the right to file for damages. If a government entity is involved, such as in accidents involving public transportation or municipal negligence, the deadline is much shorter—typically six months..

Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Fullerton

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is devastating, and unfortunately, wrongful deaths happen in many different ways. Understanding the most common causes can help families recognize when they may have legal grounds to seek justice.

Car Accidents & Reckless Driving

Fullerton’s busy streets, including Harbor Boulevard and the 91 Freeway, see frequent traffic collisions. Many fatal crashes happen because of reckless driving, speeding, distracted driving, or drunk driving. When a driver’s carelessness or violation of traffic laws leads to a fatal accident, their insurance or personal assets may be held accountable in a wrongful death claim.

Medical Malpractice & Hospital Negligence

When we seek medical care, we trust doctors and hospitals to help—not harm. But misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, and neglect can have fatal consequences. These cases are legally and medically complex, often requiring expert testimony to prove that a doctor, nurse, or hospital failed in their duty of care.

Workplace Accidents & Unsafe Conditions

Some industries come with higher risks, especially construction, manufacturing, and warehouse jobs. Fatal workplace accidents often happen due to:

• Falls from heights or scaffolding
• Heavy machinery malfunctions
• Lack of proper safety equipment
• Exposure to toxic chemicals

Employers are legally required to follow safety regulations to protect their workers. If a company fails to provide a safe environment, they could be held liable for a wrongful death.

Steps to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Gathering Evidence & Documentation

Before filing a lawsuit, it’s crucial to collect key evidence that supports your claim. This may include:

• Medical records detailing the cause of death
• Police reports or accident reports
• Witness statements from those who saw what happened
• Employment records showing lost financial support

This evidence helps build a strong case by proving how the death occurred and who is responsible.

Opening a Probate Estate

Since a wrongful death lawsuit is filed on behalf of the deceased, a probate estate must be opened to legally represent their interests. This ensures that any awarded compensation is distributed to the rightful beneficiaries, such as a spouse, children, or other dependents.

Investigation & Discovery Process

Once the lawsuit is filed, your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering:

• Additional medical records and expert testimony
• Eyewitness accounts that support the claim
• Evidence of safety violations or negligence by the responsible party

The discovery phase is where both sides exchange information, allowing your attorney to strengthen your case and negotiate for a fair settlement.

Settlement Negotiations or Trial

Many wrongful death cases are resolved through negotiation with insurance companies. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial, where a jury determines liability and damages.

Trial proceedings can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the case. Throughout the process, your attorney will handle all legal filings, court appearances, and arguments, so you can focus on healing.

Appeals Process (If Necessary)

If the court’s decision is unfavorable, there may be an option to appeal the verdict. An appeal is considered if there is new evidence, errors in legal proceedings, or a misinterpretation of the law.

Calculating Compensation in Wrongful Death Cases

Calculating compensation involves assessing both economic and non-economic damages that families are unfortunately faced with.

Damages Available

Families who lose a loved one face unexpected burdens. California law allows them to pursue compensation through a wrongful death suit for damages such as:

• Burial and Funeral expenses
• Medical expenses related to the deceased’s final injury or illness
• Loss of income and future financial support
• Loss of companionship, care, and emotional support
• Pain and suffering endured by the family

Calculating economic losses involves considering factors like the deceased’s income, potential future earnings, age, health, occupation, education, and earning capacity.

Pain and Suffering Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim

Pain and suffering damages refer to the emotional and psychological toll the loss has on surviving family members. While financial losses like medical bills and lost income are easier to quantify, grief, emotional distress, and the loss of companionship are just as real and deserve compensation.

In California, these non-economic damages may include:

• Loss of companionship and emotional support – The absence of a spouse, parent, or child can have a profound impact on daily life.
• Loss of guidance and care – When a parent or guardian is lost, children may be entitled to compensation for the loss of parental support and mentorship.
• Mental anguish and emotional distress – The trauma of an unexpected loss can lead to depression, anxiety, and lasting psychological struggles.

Although California does not place a cap on pain and suffering damages in most cases, proving these losses requires strong evidence.

On the other hand, Punitive damages may be awarded in cases of particularly egregious conduct, serving as a penalty against the wrongdoer. These damages deter similar future conduct and provide additional compensation to the grieving family.

The value of a wrongful death claim varies widely based on factors like case details and types of damages sought. Each case is unique, and compensation depends on the circumstances surrounding the death and its impact on the family. A Fullerton wrongful death attorney can into a claim’s potential value and guide families through the legal process.

Legal Challenges in Wrongful Death Cases

Pursuing a wrongful death claim comes with legal hurdles that can make an already difficult time even more overwhelming. From proving liability to dealing with insurance companies, families must navigate a system that often works against them.

Navigating wrongful death laws can be complicated, with varying statutes and requirements across jurisdictions. Determining liability is one of the biggest challenges, as multiple parties—such as employers, manufacturers, or medical providers—may share responsibility. Gathering evidence, securing expert testimony, and proving negligence requires legal skill and resources that families may not have on their own.

The emotional strain and financial burdens of wrongful death cases complicate the legal process, especially in the wake of a loved one’s death. Insurance companies often delay or undervalue claims, counting on families to accept low settlements. This is where having an experienced wrongful death lawyer can make all the difference, ensuring that families receive the compensation they need while focusing on healing.

Justice Starts Now: Wrongful Death Lawyer Fullerton, CA

From understanding the intricacies of wrongful death claims to litigating with corporate or private entities, having a skilled Fullerton wrongful death lawyer by your side can be the most valuable asset for your family. WCTL is here to stand by you every step of the way.

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, Call us now at (213) 927-3700 or complete our online contact form to speak to an experienced wrongful death attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Deaths

Who Is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Fullerton?

Individuals eligible to file a wrongful death claim in Fullerton include spouses, children, parents, and in certain circumstances, other family members such as grandparents or siblings.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California?

The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit in California is generally two years from the date of death. Ensure to file within this timeframe to preserve your legal rights by hiring a skilled wrongful death attorney.

What Are the Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Fullerton?

Common causes of wrongful death in Fullerton typically involve motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, workplace incidents, and defective products. Each of these circumstances can lead to tragic consequences and warrant careful consideration.