30

YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE

1846+

SATISFIED CLIENTS

500+

SUCCESSFUL LAWSUITS

FREE CALIFORNIA WRONGFUL DEATH LAWYERS
CASE EVALUATION

30

YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE

1846+

SATISFIED CLIENTS

500+

SUCCESSFUL LAWSUITS

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COMMUNITY AND FIRM EVENTS

Here at Gosuits we understand that being a part of the community means more than just providing legal services. Whether we are participating in a community event or hosting a firm event, our goal is always the same: to build strong relationships with the people we serve and to make a positive impact in our community.

California Wrongful Death Lawyers: Your Partners In Justice

Losing a loved one is one of life’s most difficult experiences, and when that loss happens because of someone else’s negligence, the pain can feel unbearable. As California wrongful death lawyers, we understand that no lawsuit can fully compensate for the loss of a loved one. However, a wrongful death lawsuit in California can provide a sense of justice, financial support, and closure for grieving families. In California, wrongful death law offers families a structured path to seek restitution for the negligence or intentional actions that caused a loved one’s passing.

What is Wrongful Death in California?

Wrongful death occurs when an individual’s life is ended due to another party’s actions or negligence. Common examples include fatalities resulting from car accidents, workplace incidents, defective products, or unsafe premises. In each situation, the goal of California wrongful death lawyers is to help families hold the responsible parties accountable and to recover the financial support they’ve lost.

Under California law, a wrongful death claim is a civil action distinct from any criminal charges that may arise from the same event. Criminal cases, if present, are handled separately by the state, and the outcome does not directly influence the civil wrongful death lawsuit in California.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California?

California law specifies that only certain people are eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

  • Surviving Spouse or Domestic Partner: The deceased’s spouse or registered domestic partner has primary standing to file a wrongful death lawsuit in California. This ensures that those closest to the deceased have the right to seek compensation.
  • Children of the Deceased: Biological or adopted children of the deceased can file a wrongful death claim. If the deceased has minor children, they have a legal right to pursue damages for the loss of their parent.
  • Parents of the Deceased: In cases where the deceased has no spouse, partner, or children, the deceased’s parents may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit, particularly if they were financially dependent on the deceased.
  • Siblings or Other Heirs: If the deceased has no immediate family (such as a spouse, partner, children, or parents), siblings or other heirs, as defined by California’s intestate succession laws, may be able to file a claim.
  • Financially Dependent Individuals: Individuals who were financially dependent on the deceased, such as stepchildren or putative spouses (a person who believed they were married to the deceased in good faith), may also have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim under certain circumstances.

California Wrongful Death Laws and Requirements

The wrongful death lawsuit statute of limitations in California is generally two years from the date of death. This time frame means that eligible family members must act relatively quickly, as failing to file within this period will likely bar them from seeking compensation. Our California wrongful death attorneys help clients navigate these strict timelines, ensuring that essential documents are filed accurately and promptly.

Additionally, California’s wrongful death law encompasses a wide range of compensable damages. The claim may cover economic damages, such as lost income, medical bills, and funeral expenses. Non-economic damages may also be sought for the loss of companionship, emotional support, and other intangibles.

Damages in a California Wrongful Death Lawsuit

In a California wrongful death lawsuit, the family may be eligible to recover several types of damages. Economic damages include measurable losses like lost wages, medical costs, and funeral expenses. These damages are designed to replace the financial contributions the deceased would have made. On the other hand, non-economic damages reflect losses that are more challenging to quantify, such as loss of companionship, emotional suffering, and the decedent’s guidance and love.

As wrongful death attorneys California, we carefully assess each case, working with economic and forensic experts to determine fair compensation. Although no amount of money can ever replace a loved one, pursuing compensation can provide stability and security for families facing unexpected financial burdens.

Why Choose Our Firm? Schedule a Free Consultation With Gosuits Today

Choosing the right California wrongful death lawyer is critical in pursuing justice for your loved one. At Gosuits, we understand the weight of this decision, and our dedication to each client’s case reflects that commitment. Unlike larger firms, we don’t pass you off to case managers or assistants. You’ll work directly with one of our compassionate and knowledgeable attorneys who will be with you through every step, from the initial consultation to the resolution of your case.

Our firm’s reputation is rooted in our people and their commitment to results. Our team includes award-winning attorneys who bring a wealth of experience and continuously leverage advanced technology and innovative legal approaches to manage cases effectively. We also utilize proprietary machine learning software to streamline and enhance the legal process, providing you with real-time access to case updates and your attorney, which is part of our commitment to treating you as an individual rather than just another case.

Our promise is simple: no upfront fees, and we only get paid if we win your case. This structure reflects our commitment to supporting clients in difficult times to ensure that financial concerns don’t stand in the way of seeking justice. Schedule your free consultation today so we may discuss your case and provide the support and guidance you deserve. Our attorneys are here to answer your questions, help you understand your options, and guide you through each step of the process.

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CALIFORNIA WRONGFUL DEATH LAWSUIT
STEPS AND PROCESS

Play Video about Personal Injury Process | Step One Of The Process | Gathering Evidence or Investigation.
Play Video about Personal Injury Process | Step One Of The Process | Gathering Evidence or Investigation.
Play Video about Personal Injury Process | Step Two Of The Process | The Demand Letter
Play Video about Step Three Of The Personal Injury Case Process | Negotiation
Play Video about Filing a Lawsuit | Step Four Of The Personal Injury Case Process
Play Video about Discovery | Step Five Of The Personal Injury Case Process
Play Video about Mediation | Step Six Of The Personal Injury Case Process
Play Video about Trial | Step Seven Of The Personal Injury Case Process
Play Video about Settlement | Step Eight Of The Personal Injury Case Process
Play Video about The Appeal | Step Nine Of The Personal Injury Case Process

1

Collect All Available Evidence


Every case rests on the backs of investigators who dig deep. We’ll investigate your accident and find evidence like police reports, hospital records, and witness statements. Our injury attorneys go deep into each potential avenue of inquiry, leaving no stone unturned in their exhaustive search for justice.

2

Write a Letter of Demand


A demand letter will be addressed to the offender and their insurance provider or legal counsel. The full financial burden is considered, including future medical expenditures, wage losses, and other expenses.

3

Negotiation


By bringing a lawsuit on your behalf, we acquire bargaining power when an insurance company refuses to give fair compensation. In addition, by filing a case, we can obtain information on the defendants we would not have had access to before.

4

Begin Filing a Lawsuit for Injury


By bringing a lawsuit on your behalf, we acquire bargaining power when an insurance company refuses to give fair compensation. In addition, by filing a case, we can obtain information on the defendants we would not have had access to before.

5

Discovery


Now that we have filed suit, we have the right to obtain information from the defendants that they were previously unwilling to release. By serving them with Requests for Admissions, Interrogatories, and Document Production, we can investigate the validity of their allegations.

6

Mediation


Once both parties have reviewed the facts of the case, a mediation session may be planned to see whether or not an amicable resolution may be reached. The defense will hear our position from a non-biased individual (Mediator), and we may continue bargaining with the insurance company over a reasonable payment.

7

Civil Trial for Injury


We will go to trial if a reasonable settlement cannot be reached. We’ll argue your case in court, using the information found through discovery and any necessary expert testimony. Many of us would rather have a jury decide our cases than a judge, as juries tend to be more compassionate in times of tragedy.

8

Settlement


A settlement has been reached if an agreement can be made before trial. In return for release of all personal injury claims, you should get a settlement that accounts for all your losses up to and including the date of your injury, fees, taxable cost, medical expenditures, lost wages, pain and suffering, etc.

9

Appeal


Suppose the jury decides against you. We will then file an appeal if we believe the defense or the court made a legal mistake. Additional data and legal arguments on our part will likely be required to convince the court of our position. The court, if we prevail, may decide to overturn its earlier ruling or even retry the case.

MORE QUESTIONS?

RESPONSE TO SOME GENERAL QUESTIONS

Who will pay for my medical bills after an accident?

Who is Responsible for the Cost of Property Damage After a Car Accident?

Are There Any Hidden Attorney Fees That I Need To Be Aware of?

What does “No Recovery, No Fee” mean?

Who will pay for my medical bills after an accident?

Who Will Pay for My Car Accident Medical Bills

Determining who will be responsible for your car accident medical bills depends on several factors: the cause of the accident, your level of fault, and the insurance coverage held by the other driver. In such circumstances, seeking guidance and support from a personal injury lawyer, Dallas can prove invaluable.

Following a car accident and sustaining injuries, it is natural to wonder who will bear the burden of your medical expenses and treatment costs. While a car accident injury settlement or a trial verdict can provide financial relief, they may not offer immediate assistance in covering your medical treatment. The answer, in essence, relies on the accident’s nature, the relevant state laws, and the specific insurance policies involved.

General Rule – Ongoing Payment Responsibility Rests with the Injured Party

It is crucial to understand that, in most cases, if you are involved in an accident, you are responsible for paying your medical bills as they are incurred. The only exception occurs in “no fault” states, which will be discussed below. Even if the at-fault party is clearly responsible for your injuries, the law does not mandate them to cover your bills on an ongoing basis.

The law only requires them to provide damages to resolve your lawsuit, and in many instances, your medical claim is included in those damages. However, the defendant is not obligated to pay your medical invoice as they arise.

Car Accidents – “No Fault” States

In motor vehicle accident cases, the coverage of hospital bills depends on whether the accident occurred in a “no fault” state. In “no fault” insurance states, your automobile insurer will cover some or all of your hospital bills resulting from a car accident, regardless of fault. However, there is typically a limit to what your own automobile insurance company will pay, varying from state to state but generally around $10,000 or less.

Once your medical expenses exceed the state’s “no fault” limit, you become responsible for paying them. If you have health insurance, your provider will cover your bills. In the case of Medicare or a state-run health insurance program through Medicaid, these entities will handle the bills. If you lack health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid, you will need to arrange payment agreements directly with your healthcare providers.

Motor Vehicle Accidents – Non-“No Fault” States (Dallas, TX)

If you are involved in a serious accident in a state without “no fault” insurance, you will generally be responsible for paying your expenses until you claim compensation from the at-fault party. However, some drivers in these states have medical payment or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage, commonly known as “med pay” and “PIP” coverage.

This coverage will pay for the fair compensation of drivers or passengers involved in a car accident with the insured party, up to the “med pay” policy limits, which are typically less than $10,000. Once your bills exceed these policy limits, you will be responsible for payment.

Medpay and PIP funds can be utilized initially to cover health insurance deductibles, co-pays, and lost wages until you recover from the at-fault party. If you lack such coverage, in most cases, you will need to find healthcare providers willing to treat you upfront and defer their bills until you receive compensation from the insurance company.

Premises Liability: Slip or Trip and Fall Accidents

In premises liability or slip and fall cases, the responsibility for payment of medical bills typically falls on the injured person, unless the premises owner’s property insurance policy includes “med pay” coverage.

Dallas personal injury attorneys with experience in handling personal injury claims related to premises liability understand that “med pay” coverage can be beneficial. If the premises owner has this type of insurance coverage, the injured person’s medical bills will be paid by the insurance carriers, up to the limits specified in the “med pay” policy. However, once the “med pay” limits are exhausted, the injured person becomes responsible for paying the remaining bills.

Boating Accidents

Boating insurance policies seldom include “med pay” coverage. Consequently, personal injury victims involved in boating accidents will likely be responsible for covering their own expenses. It is crucial for individuals who suffer injuries caused by boating accidents to consult the right lawyer in Dallas to understand their legal options and seek rightful compensation for their injuries.

Work-Related Accidents

In the unfortunate event of a work-related accident due to gross negligence, personal injury victims may find relief if their company carries workers’ compensation insurance. In such personal injury cases, the workers’ compensation insurer will cover all the medical bills incurred by the injured party. It is important to note that these victims involved in work-related accidents are not required to contribute any money towards their expenses, including bills or deductibles.

Moreover, our Fort Worth, Dallas personal injury lawyers who handle personal injury cases are well-versed in the laws pertaining to workers’ compensation and can ensure that victims receive proper reimbursement for transportation expenses related to medical appointments. However, if a company does not have workers’ compensation insurance, pursuing damages under Texas non-subscriber laws becomes necessary.

Reimbursement for Medical Bills Paid by Insurers

If health insurers, Medicare, or the state agency administering Medicaid benefits have paid for your medical bills in relation to the accident, they are entitled to reimbursement for the amount they disbursed to your healthcare providers. Skilled Dallas personal injury attorneys can help navigate the complexities of dealing with insurers and ensure fair reimbursement processes.

Worst-Case Scenario

In the worst-case scenario where an accident occurs, insurance coverage is unavailable, and it is determined that there is no personal injury case due to factors such as personal fault or insufficient evidence, the injured party becomes solely responsible for all medical expenses. These victims facing this situation have limited options and should seek legal counsel to explore any possible alternatives.

Who is Responsible for the Cost of Property Damage After a Car Accident?

Who is Responsible for the Cost of Property Damage After a Car Accident in Dallas?

In Dallas, Texas, the responsibility for covering the cost of property damage resulting from a car accident lies within specific legal parameters. As a car owner, you have the right to choose the body shop for repairing your vehicle. However, determining who will foot the bill for your property damage depends on the urgency of your vehicle’s repair and whether the at-fault party has accepted liability.
In Dallas, as in most places, the responsibility for the cost of property damage after a car accident typically falls on the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Texas follows a fault-based system, meaning that the driver who caused the accident is generally responsible for covering the damages.

If you were not at fault in the accident, you can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to seek compensation for your property damage. Their insurance should cover the cost of repairing or replacing your damaged property, such as your vehicle or any other damaged property involved in the accident.

It’s important to gather evidence and documentation of the accident, including photographs, police reports, witness statements, and any other relevant information that can support your claim. You should notify your insurance company about the accident as well, even if you are not at fault, to ensure they are aware of the situation.

If the at-fault driver does not have insurance or is underinsured, you may need to rely on your own insurance coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, to help cover the property damage costs.

Are There Any Hidden Attorney Fees That I Need To Be Aware of?

Are There Any Hidden Attorney Fees That I Need To Be Aware of?

When you engage the services of our Dallas personal injury law firm, we ensure complete transparency regarding our fee structure. There are no hidden charges or surprise fees that catch you off guard. We take the time to explain the details of our contingency fee agreement, outlining all the fees and expenses involved.

In fact, paragraphs 1 and 2 of our agreement provide a comprehensive breakdown, and we require your initials next to each item to confirm your understanding. Our aim is to establish trust with our clients, providing them with peace of mind and alleviating any concerns. Our goal is not to profit at your expense but rather to obtain the best possible results for your injuries and damages.

Are My Medical Bills And Attorney Fees Combined?

It’s important to note that your medical bills and attorney fees are separate entities. While our law firm fees are based on the “No Fee, No Recovery” concept, your medical bills remain your responsibility. For instance, if you received a bill from the emergency room following your accident, it is your obligation to settle that bill as it does not fall within our purview to waive it.
However, when you enter into a contract with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Dallas, such as ourselves, you grant us permission to reimburse the medical providers from the eventual settlement or judgment you receive. This arrangement ensures that your expenses are appropriately handled while allowing us to pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve for your harm or serious injury.

Who Covers the Expenses of Managing My Case?

The good news is that, as experienced personal injury attorneys in Dallas, TX, we have provisions in our contingency contract that allow us to bear the expenses associated with your case. Our law firm agreement enables us to cover the necessary costs throughout the process, and once we secure a settlement on your behalf, we will deduct those expenses from the settlement amount.

It’s important to understand the typical expenses involved in a personal injury case, as they can be significant. For instance, the police department charges a fee for providing copies of the police report, collision videos, and the police call log. Medical providers charge per page to produce your medical records. Filing a lawsuit incurs fees imposed by the court.

What sets our law firm apart is our commitment to leveraging digital resources to streamline these requests and save you money at every turn. For example, our Dallas personal injury attorney makes digital requests for your medical records and bills, opting for a flat fee instead of a per-page charge.
Our communication is predominantly conducted through email and client portals, providing you with convenient and cost-effective access to our Dallas personal injury lawyers. This approach allows us to operate as a faster and more affordable law firm, dedicated to serving your needs.

What does “No Recovery, No Fee” mean?

What does “No Recovery, No Fee” mean?

“No Recovery, No Fee” or “No Attorney Fee if No Recovery” means that you will not be responsible for your attorney fees if we lose your case, or do not settle your case with the responsible party or their insurance company. We will charge you a percentage of the settlement instead of the typical retainer and hourly fees that attorneys charge.

Therefore, if we lose your case any percentage X $0.00 = $0.00 and you owe us nothing for attorney fees. This agreement allows you as a victim of a car accident to receive the proper medical attention that you need without worrying about the outrageous legal fees piling up. Also, this will give you the opportunity to handle your property damage much faster and get back to your daily lives.

In the other Sections, we explain that although there are no attorney fees if there is no recovery, your medical bills and expenses are still due and the medical providers will want payment irrelevant of the results. In addition, we explain in some rarer circumstances that if we lose you may be responsible for attorney fees and taxable court costs of the defendant if the judge exercises discretion and grants them.

How long does a wrongful death lawsuit take in California?

The duration varies depending on factors like the complexity of the case and the willingness of the parties to settle. Some cases may resolve within months, while others can take years if they go to trial.

Settlement amounts can vary based on several factors, including the decedent’s age, earning capacity, and the specific circumstances of the incident. Consulting a California wrongful death lawyer can provide more precise estimates.

California law allows the deceased person’s spouse, children, or other dependents to file. In cases without direct dependents, those entitled under California’s intestacy laws may pursue a claim.

Generally, California law imposes a two-year limit from the date of death. It’s essential to consult a wrongful death lawyer California to ensure the claim is filed promptly.

Damages typically include economic losses (such as lost income and funeral expenses) and non-economic losses (such as loss of companionship). Each case is unique, and California wrongful death lawyers can help assess your eligibility for each type of compensation.

GET TO KNOW OUR CALIFORNIA WRONGFUL DEATH LAWYERS

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SEAN CHALAKI

  • Texas Super Lawyers: Rising Star 2016 2023 2024
  • Law Firm of the Month by Attorney at Law Magazine 2016
  • Top 40 under 40 Trial Attorney by The National Trial Lawyers (2015, 2016, 2022)
  • Board Member Texas Trial Lawyers Association
  • Dallas Trial Lawyers Association
  • Danielle Hall, Individually Anf Amh-s V. Witron Integrated Logistics, Inc. Et
  • Best Lawyers Ones to Watch 2022
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YASAMIN MOUSSAVI

  • Principal / Texas and New York Litigation Attorney
  • Licensed Attorney with State Bar of Texas
  • Licensed Attorney with State Bar of New York
  • Licensed Attorney in Federal and District Court
  • South Australian Bar Association
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SHAWN HASHEMI

  • Principal / Litigation Attorney
  • State Bar of Texas
    U.S. Federal District Court for Northern District of Texas
  • U.S. Federal District Court for Eastern District of Texas
  • U.S. Federal District Court for Southern District of Texas
  • U.S. Federal District Court for Western District of Texas
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ABBAS HARATI

  • Admitted to the State Bar of California
  • Certified Mediator in the State of Texas
  • Member of the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association
  • Member of the Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles

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The content of this website has been prepared by Gosuits.com, for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice from a lawyer. The material posted on this website is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a lawyer-client relationship, and readers should not act upon it without seeking professional counsel. The chat system is an automated system that provides general information and not legal advice. You should not rely on any of the information, nor should you ever disclose private information to anyone in the chat system. Our office will never ask you for your private information until you have retain our firm with a written contract. Until there is an established written contract there is no attorney-client relationship. The knowledge base section of this website is not to be used as legal advice or legal resources. This website contains attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Disclaimers.

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* Best Lawyers Ones to Watch 2022 – Sean Chalaki
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* Attorney at Law Magazine 2016 – Sean Chalaki
* The National Trial Lawyers 2015 – Sean Chalaki