Los Angeles Wrongful Death Lawyer

Losing a loved one unexpectedly because of someone else’s actions can be devastating. The weight of grief can feel all-consuming, making it hard to think straight, handle everyday responsibilities, or even take care of yourself. On top of that, handling the legal complexities of a wrongful death case can seem overwhelming when all you want to do is mourn and remember your loved one.

At Jacoby & Meyers, we understand the depth of your pain and are here to support you through this difficult time. For over 50 years, our Los Angeles wrongful death lawyers have represented families in pursuing wrongful death claims. We handle the legal details so you can focus on healing and honoring the memory of your loved one.

• Since 1972, we’ve recovered over $2 billion for our clients. Read their stories in our client testimonials. Client testimonials reflect individual experiences. Results vary depending on the facts of each case.
• With 14 locations across California, our team has a deep understanding of state law. View our case results to see our dedication to securing fair compensation. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
• We work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you only pay attorney fees if we successfully obtain compensation for you. 

Can I Afford a Los Angeles Wrongful Death Attorney?

The financial impact of losing a family member can be immediate and severe. Funeral expenses, lost household income, and unpaid medical bills can create serious pressure, often at the same moment families are trying to manage grief.

At Jacoby & Meyers, we handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis. That means:

• No upfront attorney fees
• Fees are only collected if compensation is recovered in your case
• Free initial consultation to review your options

We explain all fee arrangements clearly during your consultation, so there are no surprises.

What Is Wrongful Death Under California Law?

A wrongful death claim is a civil legal action that allows certain surviving family members to seek compensation for losses resulting from a death caused by another party’s negligence or wrongful conduct.

Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60, the following individuals may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim:

• The surviving spouse or domestic partner
• Children of the deceased
• The deceased’s parents (if no spouse or children survive)
• Siblings, in limited circumstances
• Other individuals entitled to the estate under California’s intestate succession laws, if no direct family members are eligible

Eligibility depends on the specific facts and circumstances of the case. An attorney can assess your situation and explain whether a claim may apply.

What Is the Difference Between a Wrongful Death Claim and a Survival Action?

These are two distinct legal claims that are sometimes pursued together.

• A wrongful death claim compensates surviving family members for their own losses, such as loss of financial support, companionship, and emotional support.
• A survival action is brought on behalf of the deceased’s estate and seeks damages the deceased person could have recovered had they survived, such as medical expenses and pain and suffering incurred before death.

Where the facts support both claims, our attorneys evaluate whether to pursue each.

What to Do After a Wrongful Death Incident

• Seek and continue any necessary medical or emotional support
• Preserve any physical evidence related to the incident, if safely possible
• Document key details, including dates, locations, names of potential witnesses, and any relevant circumstances
• Request copies of police reports, medical records, and other documentation
• Avoid giving recorded or written statements to insurance companies before speaking with a lawyer
• Contact a Los Angeles wrongful death attorney as early as possible to protect your legal rights and preserve time-sensitive evidence

Legal Tip from Our Attorneys

Insurance companies often start evaluating wrongful death claims immediately, sometimes before families have time to gather documents or speak with a lawyer. The initial weeks after an incident are critical in California for building a strong wrongful death claim, as this is when evidence is preserved, witness statements are recorded, and medical details are documented. Families who hire a lawyer early may be better positioned to present an evidence-based claim. A frequent mistake is giving informal statements to insurance adjusters, which can later be used against you. Under California’s comparative fault laws, even statements admitting uncertainty can complicate your claim.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases in Los Angeles

Wrongful death cases in Los Angeles County arise from various incidents, causing families grief and a search for accountability. These cases may result from the carelessness or wrongdoing of another person.

• Car Accidents: Fatal crashes due to reckless driving, DUI, or traffic violations are common. In 2023, Los Angeles saw 336 deaths.
• Truck Accidents: Factors such as drowsy driving and speeding can lead to fatal truck accidents.
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents: Pedestrians and cyclists can be fatally struck by vehicles due to driver negligence. California sees about 11,000 bicycle accidents and 160 fatalities annually, with Los Angeles County accounting for 25% of these cases. Between 2011 and 2020, 1,133 pedestrians died in collisions.
• Premises Liability: Fatal injuries can occur on unsafe properties due to hazardous conditions. In 2024, 48,308 people died from falls at home and work.
• Dog Bite Accidents: Severe dog bites can result in wrongful deaths. Annually, around 20,000 people in Los Angeles County are bitten by dogs.

Common Injuries Leading to Wrongful Death

Many wrongful death cases involve severe injuries that the deceased sustained before passing. Understanding the nature of these injuries can be relevant to evaluating both survival actions and wrongful death claims:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage or internal bleeding
• Severe burns
• Crush injuries
• Multiple fractures
• Acute respiratory failure

Who May Be Liable in a Wrongful Death Case?

Liability in a wrongful death case can be complex. Under California’s comparative fault rules, multiple parties may share responsibility. Identifying all potentially liable parties is essential to building a strong claim.

Potentially liable parties can include:

• Individual drivers: Those who caused a fatal accident through negligent, reckless, or impaired driving
• Employers: Companies whose employees caused a death while acting within the scope of their employment, or whose negligent supervision or training contributed to the incident
• Property owners: Individuals or entities responsible for maintaining safe conditions on premises where a fatal injury occurred
• Manufacturers: Companies whose defective products or equipment contributed to a death
• Government entities: City, county, or state agencies responsible for road conditions, public transit operations, or public property maintenance. Note that claims against government entities involve different procedures and shorter filing deadlines.
• Healthcare providers: Medical professionals or facilities whose negligent care contributed to a patient’s death

Why Wrongful Death Cases Are Legally Complex

Wrongful death cases involve a distinct set of legal and procedural challenges. Several factors contribute to this complexity:

• Multiple potentially liable parties, including private individuals, corporations, and government entities, each subject to different rules and timelines
• California’s comparative fault system, which requires a careful assessment of each party’s degree of responsibility, and which can affect the amount of recoverable damages
• Time-sensitive evidence, including surveillance footage, vehicle data, and witness recollections, that may be lost or altered without early legal action.
• Medical causation questions that often require expert review to establish a clear link between the incident and the cause of death
• Layered insurance coverage, including commercial policies, excess coverage, and rideshare or employer-affiliated coverage, which can complicate negotiations
• Dual-claim analysis when both a wrongful death claim and a survival action may apply, each with its own evidentiary requirements

Our Personal Injury Case Results

Our personal injury attorneys have recovered over $2 billion in settlements on behalf of local accident victims in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area. Some of our personal injury case results include:

Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.

Damages That May Be Available in a Wrongful Death Case

California law permits surviving family members to seek compensation for several categories of loss. What is recoverable depends on the specific facts of the case.

Economic Damages

These represent measurable financial losses:

• Medical expenses incurred before the death
• Future medical costs related to the incident (where applicable in a survival action)
• Loss of financial support that the deceased would have provided
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of anticipated inheritance

Non-Economic Damages

These reflect losses that are real but not easily quantified:

• Loss of companionship and consortium
• Loss of guidance and mentorship (particularly for minor children)
• Emotional distress suffered by surviving family members
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Punitive Damages

In limited circumstances, punitive damages may be available in related legal actions where permitted by California law. These are not guaranteed and depend on the specific conduct of the defendant.

If you choose to seek legal representation, a wrongful death attorney can evaluate potential damages based on the specific facts of your case and discuss available options.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in Los Angeles?

The statute of limitations sets specific deadlines for filing a wrongful death suit, aiming to ensure the case’s seriousness and legitimacy through timely and substantial evidence.

Generally, family members of the deceased have two years from the date of death to gather evidence and file a wrongful death claim. However, this varies depending on the circumstances of the situation.

Because wrongful death cases involve complex legal and evidentiary issues, speaking with a lawyer early can help ensure deadlines are properly evaluated. In addition to damages related to the victim’s death, you must also consider the damages suffered before their passing when evaluating legal timelines.

Because of the complexity of working within legal deadlines, it can be helpful to consult a lawyer early on to help ensure that deadlines are properly reviewed.

Scenario

If your loved one died in a car accident in Los Angeles and endured a hospital stay before passing, medical bills may be part of the damages claimed. If legal action is considered later, gathering evidence within the remaining statutory period can become more difficult.

Usually, it takes time to recover evidence, especially if there is a significant gap between the time of the passing and when a surviving family member decides to pursue a case. For example, witnesses may forget specific details, and obtaining reports may take time. An experienced wrongful death attorney can assist in communicating with institutions and requesting documentation to support the claim.

Why Legal Representation Matters in Wrongful Death Cases

Managing a wrongful death claim while grieving is difficult. Insurance companies involved in these cases employ experienced adjusters and legal teams whose role is to evaluate and manage claims. Families without legal representation may find it harder to:

• Identify all potentially liable parties
• Understand the full range of damages they may be entitled to pursue
• Respond to requests for recorded statements or documentation
• Evaluate whether a settlement offer is appropriate given the circumstances of the case
• Meet procedural and filing deadlines, especially when government entities are involved

Having legal counsel does not guarantee a particular outcome, but it does mean having someone in your corner who understands the process, can manage the legal burden, and can focus on building a strong case while you focus on your family.

A Lawyer’s Role in Wrongful Death Claims

Here’s how a wrongful death lawyer may help you:

• Expertise and Experience: A wrongful death lawyer has the specific knowledge and experience of the legal procedures, necessary documentation, and legal standards involved in these cases.
• Proving Liability: Establishing negligence or wrongful acts in a wrongful death lawsuit can be difficult. A wrongful death attorney can collect and evaluate evidence, interview witnesses, and collaborate with appropriate experts to help develop a claim.
• Pursuing Compensation: A lawyer can evaluate potential damages and negotiate with insurance companies and opposing counsel to pursue compensation supported by the evidence.
• Handling Legal Requirements: The legal system can be intimidating, as there are specific deadlines and requirements you must meet. This becomes more complex when grieving a loss. An attorney can manage filings and court requirements while you focus on healing.
• Guidance and Direction: In addition to legal representation, attorneys can provide clear information about the process so you can make informed decisions.

Our Los Angeles wrongful death attorneys represent clients in accordance with California law and provide information about legal rights and options during consultations.

How Jacoby & Meyers Prepares Wrongful Death Cases

Our approach to wrongful death cases is methodical and evidence-driven. We prepare every case as though it may proceed to trial, because that preparation directly affects the quality of settlement discussions and, when necessary, courtroom outcomes.

1. Initial Case Evaluation: We review the facts, assess eligibility, explain legal options, and outline next steps during a free consultation.
2. Evidence Preservation and Investigation: We move quickly to identify and preserve relevant evidence that may be time-sensitive.
3. Coordination with Medical and Expert Professionals: Where appropriate, we work with treating physicians, medical experts, and other specialists to document causation, the extent of injuries, and long-term impact.
4. Comprehensive Damage Documentation: We document all past, current, and projected financial and non-economic losses to build a complete picture of what families have experienced and may continue to face.
5. Strategic Demand Preparation: We prepare detailed demand packages supported by evidence, designed to reflect the full scope of recoverable damages under California law.
6. Litigation and Trial Readiness: When negotiations do not produce a resolution that reflects the merits of the case, we are prepared to file a lawsuit and proceed through the litigation process, including trial.

How to Choose the Right Wrongful Death Lawyer in Los Angeles

A wrongful death case is unlike any other personal injury claim. Families are not only grieving a profound loss, but they are often facing sudden financial uncertainty and unanswered questions. Insurance companies and corporate defendants may move quickly to limit liability, which makes choosing the right attorney a critical early decision.

The right wrongful death lawyer Los Angeles offers will begin with a thorough investigation, a clear legal strategy, and a commitment to honoring the full impact of your loved one’s life.

Experience With Wrongful Death Claims

Wrongful death cases require deep legal knowledge, sensitivity, and the ability to handle complex evidence. Your attorney should understand how to address:

• Fatal car, truck, or workplace accidents
• Medical negligence resulting in loss of life
• Dangerous property conditions
• Product-related fatalities
• Claims involving multiple liable parties

These cases often require expert testimony, financial analysis of lifetime earnings, and careful documentation of the loss suffered by surviving family members.

For decades, Jacoby & Meyers has represented families across California and recovered over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements in serious injury and wrongful death cases.

Reputation and Professional Standing

When a case involves significant damages, credibility matters. Established firms with recognized attorneys are often taken more seriously during negotiations and litigation. Jacoby & Meyers attorneys have been recognized by different organizations for their professional advocacy and ethical standards.

Knowledge of California Law and Deadlines

A qualified Los Angeles wrongful death attorney should understand:

• Who is legally eligible to file a wrongful death claim
• The two-year statute of limitations applies in most cases
• Shorter deadlines for claims involving government entities
• How comparative negligence may affect recovery

Proper handling of these procedural requirements is essential to protecting your family’s rights.

Trial Preparation

While many wrongful death cases resolve through settlement, some require litigation to achieve accountability. A firm that prepares every case as if it may be presented to a jury strengthens your position from the outset.

Choosing the right wrongful death lawyer is about experience, preparation, and compassion, ensuring your loved one’s story is taken seriously and your family’s future is carefully protected.

What to Bring to Your First Wrongful Death Consultation

After losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed. You do not need to have every document in order before speaking with an attorney. Even basic information allows us to begin protecting your family’s rights right away.

If available, consider bringing:

• The death certificate or any official reports
• Medical records related to the incident
• Police, incident, or investigation reports
• Insurance information and any correspondence received
• Funeral or burial expense documentation
• Proof of your loved one’s income and financial support to the family
• Notes about what happened and any witnesses who may have information

If you do not have all of these documents yet, that is okay. Our team can assist in obtaining records and preserving important evidence. The most important step is reaching out early so your legal options are protected while your family focuses on grieving and healing.

What Our Clients Say About Us

For over 50 years, our firm has helped clients pursue their legal rights under California law.

“Jacoby and Meyers handled my case very well. They are, on the one hand, attending to all my needs from the first day of my injury, to the details of my car accident, and setting me up for my doctor’s appointment and therapy; they did a great job. Not to mention Jocelyn Cruz, who helped me a lot to get treatment for my recurring hip injury. I am so thankful to her and to all the staff who handled my case, Cole, who first took my report, and everyone else involved in my case.” – Janet Atienza from Google Review.

Disclaimer: Testimonials are voluntary statements from former clients. They are not intended to create expectations about outcomes and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results.

What Our Clients Have To Say

Our Proven Results

Behind every case is a person facing life-changing challenges. These settlements give our clients access to essential medical care, replace lost income, and restore financial stability after devastating events.

• $13 Million – Wrongful Death VS. City
• $11.9 Million – Wrongful Death VS. Truck
• $10.75 Million – Wrongful Death VS. Truck
• $3.25 Million – Wrongful Death Premises Liability

Read our case studies to learn how we protect our clients’ rights.

Disclaimer: Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.

Wrongful Death Attorney Near Me

Jacoby & Meyers operates 14 locations across California, with legal teams serving Los Angeles and the surrounding region, including:

• Orange County
• San Jose
• San Francisco
• San Diego
• San Bernardino
• Sacramento
• Ontario
• Oakland
• Los Angeles
• Fresno 
• Escondido
• Brea
• Bakersfield

Whether your case involves an incident on the I-405 near Inglewood, a pedestrian accident in Downtown LA, or a workplace fatality in the San Fernando Valley, our legal teams are accessible and familiar with the courts, agencies, and procedures relevant to your case.

See the areas we serve here. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How does California’s comparative fault rule affect a wrongful death claim?

California follows a “pure comparative fault” system. This means that if the deceased was found to be partially responsible for the incident, the total damages recoverable may be reduced in proportion to their share of fault. For example, if a court determines that the deceased was 20% at fault, the recoverable damages would be reduced by 20%. An attorney can assess how comparative fault may apply to your specific circumstances.

What if the cause of death was indirect?

The cause of a wrongful death doesn’t have to be immediate to potentially support a claim. For instance, if your loved one develops cancer and dies years after working with chemical hazards or toxic substances, this circumstance may still give rise to a wrongful death claim under California law.

However, this situation may be more challenging to prove, as insurance companies often require substantial evidence supporting causation. This is why it is important to consult a wrongful death law firm familiar with handling complex cases.

How is wrongful death compensation divided?

Proceeds from a wrongful death settlement or judgment are distributed according to California’s intestate succession laws. For example:

• If a spouse has no children, the spouse receives 100% of the proceeds.
• If there is a spouse and one child, the proceeds are split equally.
• If there is a spouse and two children, each receives one-third.

However, specific circumstances may change how the settlement is divided. For instance, if a surviving spouse’s actions contributed to the death, they may be disqualified from receiving proceeds.

A wrongful death attorney can explain how financial compensation may be divided under California law based on the specific facts of your case.

Can I file a wrongful death claim if I’m a domestic partner of the deceased?

Typically, the surviving spouse has the right to file a wrongful death claim in California. But what happens if you are not legally married to the victim?

If you are the victim’s domestic partner, you may still seek compensation for losses if eligibility requirements are met. In such a case, you must demonstrate financial dependence on the deceased or prove cohabitation prior to the accident. Sufficient evidence is required for the court to recognize eligibility for a wrongful death claim.

Spouses and domestic partners often experience significant grief and hardship after losing a loved one. Our Los Angeles wrongful death attorneys assist clients in clarifying eligibility requirements, assessing the case, and protecting their legal rights during proceedings.

What if the deceased did not have life insurance or a significant estate?

A wrongful death claim is a separate legal action from life insurance or estate proceedings. Even if your loved one had no life insurance or estate assets, eligible family members may still pursue a wrongful death claim for losses such as financial support, companionship, and related expenses, provided the death resulted from another party’s negligence or wrongful conduct.

How much does it cost to hire Jacoby & Meyers for a wrongful death case?

We handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis. There are no upfront attorney fees, and fees are only collected if compensation is recovered in your case. All fee arrangements are explained clearly during your free initial consultation.

What if the person responsible for the death does not have significant assets or insurance?

In some cases, other potentially liable parties, such as employers, property owners, or product manufacturers, may also share responsibility. Our attorneys conduct a thorough investigation to identify all parties whose actions may have contributed to the death and all available insurance coverage. The full scope of liability is assessed before any conclusions are drawn.

How long does a wrongful death case typically take?

The timeline varies considerably depending on the complexity of the case, the number of parties involved, whether litigation is required, and the court’s schedule. Cases that settle during negotiations tend to resolve faster than those that proceed to trial. During your consultation, we can provide a more specific assessment based on the facts of your case.

For more information, you can visit our FAQ page. 

Local Resources in Los Angeles

Disclaimer: We do not endorse or profit from these organizations. This list is for informational purposes only.

Emergency Rooms

• Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: 8700 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048
• Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center: 757 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095
• Keck Hospital of USC: 1500 San Pablo St, Los Angeles, CA 90033

Urgent Care

• Dignity Health – St. Mary Medical Center: 1050 Linden Ave, Long Beach, CA 90813
• Exer Urgent Care: Multiple locations throughout Los Angeles County
• Total Access Urgent Care: Multiple locations throughout Los Angeles

Police Departments

• Los Angeles Police Department (Traffic Group): 100 W. 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department: 211 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Courthouses

• Los Angeles Superior Court: 111 N. Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Stanley Mosk Courthouse: 111 N Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Speak With a Los Angeles Wrongful Death Lawyer At No Cost

If you lost a loved one due to another party’s negligence or wrongful conduct, you have the right to understand your legal options. Jacoby & Meyers offers free consultations with experienced wrongful death attorneys, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

• Free initial consultation
• No attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you
• Available by phone, online form, or live chat
• 24/7 availability

Call us, complete our online contact form, or start a live chat to connect with our team. We are here to answer your questions and help you determine the right next step.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.

Attorney Review & Office Information

Attorney Review Disclosure
This content has been reviewed by California-licensed attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable California law. Legal services are provided by attorneys licensed to practice in the State of California.

Los Angeles Office
Jacoby & Meyers
2000 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1150S
Los Angeles, CA 90067

24/7 Hotline: (213) 296-0792

Other Cases We Take On

• Car Accidents
• Personal Injury
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Truck Accidents
• Slip and Fall Accidents
• Dog Bites
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Scooter Accidents
• Premises Liability
• Hit and Run Accidents
• Construction Accidents
• Boat Accident
• Bicycle Accidents
• Paraplegia Injury
• Brain Injuries
• Catastrophic Injuries
• Burn Injuries
• Wrongful Death
• Laceration Injury
• Orthopedic Injury
• Whiplash Injury
• Amputations
• Broken Bone Injuries
• Neck Injuries
• Quadriplegia Injury
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Back Injury
• Rideshare Accidents