Not every relative or loved one can bring a wrongful death lawsuit under California law. A Sacramento wrongful death lawyer can explain that a surviving spouse, domestic partner, children or grandchildren can bring such a suit.
For wrongful death claims, there are two basic types of damages: economic and non-economic damages. A Sacramento wrongful death lawyer can explain that economic damages are those damages that are easier to quantify. For example, funeral expenses, lost income and medical expenses prior to death are some types of economic damages. Lost future lost income is also an economic damage. These types of damages seek to compensate the victim’s loved ones for the financial hardship that the loss of his or her life will likely cause.
Non-economic damages are more subjective and include damages that attempt to compensate the victim’s loved ones for the emotional loss of the victim. For example, these damages include loss of companionship, loss of care and comfort and loss of consortium.
Sacramento wrongful death attorneys represent the family’s best interests by pursuing a claim against the party responsible for their loved one’s death. They may handle negotiations with insurance companies or defendants. If the case goes to trial, they are responsible for presenting the family’s case in court.
To develop the case and the evidence necessary to prevail, wrongful death lawyers may conduct a thorough investigation into the underlying causes of the death. Private investigators may be retained to help establish the factual basis of the claim. Eyewitnesses may be interviewed who saw some of the tragic events unfold. Once liability is established, professionals may be consulted to determine an accurate measure of damages. Economists may discuss the financial consequences of losing the loved one.
If you lost a loved one due to the negligence of another, contact Amaya & Associates Law Group at (916) 452-6116. You can set up a confidential and complimentary consultation to review the options available in your case.