Wrongful Death

Wrongful Death

Losing a loved one because of someone else’s carelessness or wrongful act is painful and unfair.

While no legal action can undo your loss, a wrongful death claim can help you recover financial support and hold the responsible party accountable.

At Willford Law Corporation, we help families in Santa Ana understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.

Wrongful Death Santa Ana California
Wrongful Death medical mistake

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a lawsuit that allows certain family members to seek compensation when someone’s negligence or intentional act causes a death.

These claims often arise from:

  • Car or truck accidents.
  • Medical mistakes.
  • Workplace incidents.
  • Unsafe property conditions.
  • Defective products.

To succeed, you must show that the other party owed a duty of care, violated that duty, and directly caused your loved one’s death.

Legal Services for Wrongful Death Cases in Santa Ana

If you lost a loved one because of someone’s carelessness or wrongful act, an experienced attorney can help you:

  • Investigate what caused the death and gather evidence.
  • Collect medical records, accident reports, and witness statements.
  • Identify everyone who may be responsible.
  • Calculate the full value of your financial and emotional losses.
  • File insurance claims or a wrongful death lawsuit.
  • Negotiate a fair settlement or represent you in court if needed.

Wrongful death cases can feel overwhelming. A skilled lawyer will guide you through each step, protect your rights, and work to recover the compensation your family deserves.

Call us at: (714) 975-5777
Call or text today to schedule your free consultation.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Under California law, the following people can usually file:

  • The deceased person’s spouse or domestic partner
  • Children or grandchildren
  • Other dependent relatives if no direct heirs exist
  • Stepchildren or a putative spouse in some cases

It is important to consult with a lawyer to confirm your eligibility before moving forward.

File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Medical costs

What Can You Recover?

A wrongful death lawsuit can help pay for:

  • Medical costs related to the final injury or illness.
  • Funeral and burial expenses.
  • Loss of the loved one’s income and financial support.
  • Loss of companionship, care, and guidance.
  • Emotional suffering caused by the loss.

These damages can ease financial stress during an already difficult time.

How Insurance May Affect Your Claim

Many wrongful death cases involve insurance companies.

For example:

  • Drivers must carry liability insurance
  • Businesses often have general liability coverage
  • Doctors carry malpractice insurance

While insurance may cover part of your loss, insurers often try to pay as little as possible.

They may claim your loved one shared blame or that other factors caused the death.

Having an attorney protects you from these tactics and helps you pursue fair compensation.

Insurance May Affect Your Claim
Deadlines for Filing in California

Deadlines for Filing in California

You have a limited time to act.

In most cases, you must file a wrongful death lawsuit within two years of the date of death.

If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover any compensation.

It is wise to speak with a lawyer as soon as you can to protect your claim.

Let's Get Started.

Call us now to discuss your case. At Willford Law Corporation, our clients come first. We know how to navigate the complicated legal system, have represented thousands of clients, and we can help you too.

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FAQ Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Are wrongful death settlements taxable?
In most cases, wrongful death settlements are not taxable. Money received for physical injury or death is usually excluded from federal income tax.
Settlements can be paid in a lump sum (one-time payment) or in structured payments over time, depending on what the parties agree to.
Money usually goes to the deceased person’s spouse, children, or other close family members. The exact share depends on state laws and sometimes on a court decision.
How long does a wrongful death lawsuit take?
It can take several months to a few years to resolve, depending on how complex the case is and whether it settles out of court or goes to trial.
There is no fixed amount. Payouts can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars, based on factors like lost income, medical costs, and pain and suffering.
You must file a complaint in civil court before the statute of limitations runs out. A lawyer usually helps gather evidence, prepare documents, and notify the other parties.
You can look for attorneys who handle personal injury or wrongful death cases by checking state bar associations, online directories, or getting referrals from other lawyers or trusted people.