Pasadena Wrongful Death Lawyer

Understanding How to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

At McGee Lerer Ogrin, we extend our condolences to those who have lost a family member or friend due to wrongful death. In the aftermath of such a tragedy, families may face medical bills, funeral costs, and other related expenses. Many survivors experience a sudden loss of income and major changes to their daily lives.

Many families in Pasadena have questions about the legal process after losing a loved one. Navigating the filing process includes understanding strict California statutes of limitations. Families normally have two years from the date of death to start a wrongful death claim. If they miss this deadline, they may forfeit the chance to recover compensation. Certain scenarios, such as claims involving government agencies, may have unique timelines or added procedures. Filing in the Los Angeles Superior Court—often at the Pasadena Courthouse—can help local families feel supported during the legal process.

A skilled Pasadena personal injury lawyer from our firm understands that filing a lawsuit for survivors cannot erase their loss. However, legal action may relieve financial strain and help create a better path forward. There are no upfront fees for our services. Our fees are paid from settlements or jury verdicts we win, and if there is no recovery, you owe us nothing.

We know that no amount of compensation can truly make up for losing someone close. By pursuing a lawsuit, you can hold the responsible party accountable. Certain elements must exist for your claim to proceed under California law.

Steps to Prove a Wrongful Death Claim

You must show that the victim’s death resulted from another individual’s negligent conduct or intent to cause harm. In addition, surviving family members must have suffered tangible losses as a consequence of this death.

Pasadena area courts require thorough documentation and evidence to support your claim. You may need police reports, medical records from local hospitals such as Huntington Hospital, and statements from witnesses. Demonstrating loss involves presenting evidence of financial support, companionship, and other contributions your loved one made to your life. These steps help the court evaluate your claim within California’s legal framework.

If you have any questions as to whether or not you have a case, please do not hesitate to contact our firm.

Frequently Seen Causes of Wrongful Deaths

Wrongful deaths may result from car accidents, motorcycle accidents, or bicycle accidents. In these cases, both the cause of death and legal responsibility must be established.

Other causes of wrongful death in Pasadena include workplace incidents, unsafe property conditions, or medical malpractice. Busy intersections and heavily traveled roads, such as Colorado Boulevard or the 210 Freeway, can factor into local motor vehicle fatalities. Public transportation accidents can also require careful legal review. Every cause calls for an investigation tailored to the facts and context of the Pasadena area.

Eligibility to File a Wrongful Death Claim in California

Claimants must meet eligibility requirements to pursue benefits. Compensation is commonly paid to:

• a surviving spouse,
• next of kin,
• children,
• and dependents of the deceased.

California law gives priority to close family members for wrongful death claims, but others, including certain dependents, may qualify. Each family’s situation is different, and determining legal rights requires understanding both state law and local court processes in Pasadena.

Types of Compensation Available in Wrongful Death Lawsuits

The surviving family members could be entitled to recover compensation for:

• pain and suffering,
• lost income,
• and any other expenses that arose as a result of their death.

The law may also allow compensation for loss of companionship, funeral and burial costs, and the value of services your loved one provided to your household. Pasadena families may face unique financial challenges due to the area’s cost of living and local job market. Courts consider both economic and non-economic factors to determine what is fair in each case under California law.