Losing a loved one is devastating under any circumstances—but when their death is caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions, the pain is compounded by a deep sense of injustice. At Bay Area Legal Ally, we stand beside grieving families in Daly City, offering compassionate guidance and powerful legal advocacy to help them seek accountability and financial security during the hardest chapter of their lives.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
In California, a wrongful death claim is a civil action brought when someone dies as the result of another person or entity’s negligent, reckless, or intentional conduct. These claims aim to provide surviving family members with compensation for the tangible and intangible losses caused by the death.
While no legal action can bring a loved one back, it can help ease the financial burden and hold the responsible party accountable.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death can arise from a variety of incidents, including:
- Motor vehicle accidents involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, or pedestrians
- Workplace accidents or unsafe working conditions
- Medical malpractice or healthcare negligence
- Defective products that cause injury or death
- Premises liability incidents such as slips, falls, or unsafe property conditions
- Criminal acts that result in fatal injuries
Each case is unique, and our team investigates every detail to uncover the truth and build a strong case.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
California law allows the following parties to file a wrongful death claim:
- Surviving spouse or domestic partner
- Surviving children
- If none of the above survive, other heirs such as parents or siblings may be eligible
The law is specific about who can bring these claims and in what order, so it’s important to consult with an attorney to ensure your family’s rights are protected.
The Types of Compensation Available
Damages in a wrongful death case can be both economic and non-economic, including:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills related to the final illness or injury
- Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided
- Loss of household services
- Loss of love, companionship, comfort, care, and guidance
Our role is to ensure your claim reflects the full scope of your losses—both the measurable financial impacts and the immeasurable emotional ones.
Our Process for Handling Wrongful Death Cases
1. Free Consultation
We start with a private, compassionate meeting to learn about your loved one, your family, and the circumstances surrounding the death.
2. Comprehensive Investigation
We gather evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimony to build a strong case.
3. Identifying All Liable Parties
Some cases involve multiple responsible parties, from individuals to corporations. We pursue every avenue for accountability.
4. Negotiation for Fair Compensation
We negotiate with insurers and opposing counsel from a position of strength, aiming for a resolution that reflects your loss.
5. Litigation if Needed
If the other side refuses to be fair, we are ready to take the case to trial and fight for justice in court.
Why Choose Bay Area Legal Ally for Your Wrongful Death Case?
- Compassion and respect. We understand the emotional toll these cases take and handle every matter with sensitivity.
- Strong litigation experience. Founder Joseph Chan, C.P.A., Esq., brings top-tier legal and financial acumen to every case, backed by experience in complex litigation.
- No fees unless we win. You never pay upfront costs; we only get paid if we secure compensation for you.
- Clear communication. We keep you informed, answer your questions, and guide you through each step of the process.
What Sets Us Apart
- Personalized Support
We tailor our legal strategy to your family’s unique circumstances and priorities. - Thorough Preparation
We investigate every angle and prepare as if the case will go to trial from day one, giving you a stronger negotiating position. - Bilingual Representation
We offer legal services in English and Cantonese to serve the diverse Daly City community. - Community Connection
As a locally based firm, we are deeply invested in helping our neighbors find justice and closure.
Time Limits for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim
In California, wrongful death claims must generally be filed within two years from the date of death. If the claim involves a government entity, the deadline can be as short as six months. Missing these deadlines can mean losing the right to seek compensation, so it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
We know no amount of money can replace your loved one, but pursuing a wrongful death claim can help provide financial stability, hold wrongdoers accountable, and honor your loved one’s memory.
Call Bay Area Legal Ally today at (415) 347-7184 or email us to schedule your free consultation. We will stand by you, fight for you, and work tirelessly to secure the justice your family deserves.
