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How WCTL Supports Families After a Loss in California

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    TL;DR: West Coast Trial Lawyers supports grieving families with compassionate legal guidance, practical resources, and expert advocacy after a fatal accident. We help you understand your legal rights, gather critical evidence, and pursue justice while you focus on healing. No upfront costs. No pressure. Just support.

    A person signing a document with the help of an attorney.

    First: Compassion Over Contracts

    Losing a loved one unexpectedly is emotionally and logistically devastating. At WCTL, we never rush grieving families into legal decisions. Our first priority is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and understood. We begin every conversation with empathy—not paperwork.

    What We Provide Beyond Legal Services

    • 24/7 Access: Our team is available to speak whenever you’re ready. Day or night, we’re here to answer your questions.
    • Free Grief Support Referrals: We connect families with local support groups, trauma therapists, and grief counseling resources throughout California.
    • Burial & Financial Guidance: We guide you through available victim compensation funds and insurance coverage to offset burial and funeral costs.
    • No Win, No Fee Promise: We never charge upfront. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.

    How Our Attorneys Help You Rebuild

    California law allows certain family members to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation for emotional and financial losses. We explain every step clearly, including:

    • Who can file under California Code of Civil Procedure §377.60
    • Time limits to act (2 years normally; 6 months for government cases)
    • Types of compensation available (lost support, companionship, funeral costs)
    • How we investigate fault and preserve critical evidence

    Client Story: Turning Pain Into Purpose

    After a fatal pedestrian crash in Long Beach, a mother came to us unsure of her rights. The driver’s insurance offered $75,000. Through a full investigation and compassionate legal support, we secured a $2.7 million settlement that helped fund her children’s education and mental health care. She called us “the team that gave us strength when we had none.”

    Feeling Lost? You’re Not Alone

    It’s normal to feel numb, overwhelmed, or frozen. Before you make any decisions, take a breath with us:

     

    One step at a time. We’re with you.

    5 Immediate Ways We Can Help

    1. Offer a free consultation to review your situation
    2. Preserve time-sensitive evidence like traffic footage and witness statements
    3. Explain your options under California law
    4. Connect you with local grief support resources
    5. Fight for maximum compensation if you choose to pursue a claim

    FAQ

    Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in California?

    Spouses, children, and in some cases, dependent parents or other relatives. See CCP §377.60.

    How much does it cost to hire WCTL?

    Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency basis: No win, no fee.

    What if we aren’t ready to file yet?

    That’s okay. We offer free information and support with no pressure to move forward until you feel ready.

    Is there a deadline to act?

    Yes. In most cases, you have 2 years to file. If a government agency is involved, it may be as little as 6 months. Contact us to protect your timeline.

    What makes WCTL different?

    We lead with compassion, not contracts. Our attorneys combine legal firepower with deep respect for what families are going through.

    Contact West Coast Trial Lawyers

    WCTL attorneys walk through their HQ location's lobby.

    Reach out now for a free, compassionate consultation. No win, no fee. Just support when you need it most.


    Attorney: Neama Rahmani, Esq. — President, West Coast Trial Lawyers
    California Bar License #223819 — Verify LicenseThis article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult an attorney about your individual case.

     

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    510 Reviewers

    They know what they're doing, very well. Not only did I not make a single phone call from the day I hired them, but I also received calls from their case managers and paralegals who want to make sure my treatment was going well. They whole team took care of me. Thank you WCTL for taking full responsibility of my case and getting me an amazing settlement.

    Sasan

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    293 Reviewers

    I can say with confidence that this team is the best in the business. . . . Dean took the time to really listen and hear me out. He assured me that he was going to move mountains because he believed in me, and he ended up doing just that. I’ve never met a more focused and passionate attorney in my life. If you’re looking for a firm that treats its clients with the utmost respect and care, calling WCTL is a no-brainer. I wouldn't think twice about working with them again in the future.

    Delilah

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