San Diego Wrongful Death Lawyers
Wrongful death lawsuits can be brought by a family whose family member has died due to the negligence or misconduct of another. However, these lawsuits are often confusing and intimidating. Read on for more information on wrongful death and your legal rights if a family member dies.
Wrongful death suits are usually brought by the surviving family members of a decedent who dies due to the negligent behavior of an individual or entity. These suits are not to be confused with criminal actions - they take place in civil court and are suits in which a family seeks financial compensation for the loss of their loved ones.
Damages in San Diego wrongful death lawsuits can cover loss of consort or association and might include pain and suffering of the family or the lost wages of the family member who died. Often it is up to the court to determine who is even eligible to file such a lawsuit. In some states, only spouses may file, but laws vary from state to state and jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
The amount that can be recovered in an individual's wrongful death lawsuit depends on the ability of the family to bring clear and convincing evidence that the death was caused or contributed to by the individual or entity being sued. Often, a victim's assailant can be tried first in criminal court, then brought to civil court. The civil trial, if any, is completely independent of any criminal action.
These issues are extremely emotional and legally complex. Thus, it is recommended that families who believe their loved one has died due to the negligence or misconduct of another immediately contact an experienced personal injury lawyer with expertise in such cases.
Steven Elia is a well-respected El Cajon personal injury attorney with a long track record of successful settlements in a variety of personal injury cases, including those that involve wrongful deaths caused by auto accidents or defective products. Steven Elia has personally handled wrongful death cases ranging from a single fatality incident to a multiple fatality incident. He understands and respects the pain and suffering of his clients who bring El Cajon and San Diego wrongful death lawsuits, and relishes the chance to help such clients gain closure after the death of a loved one and get the compensation they deserve. Contact Steven Elia today for more information on wrongful death lawsuits and your legal rights.