Van Nuys Wrongful Death Lawyer

Q: What is considered a wrongful death in California?

A wrongful death occurs when someone dies as a result of another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act.

Van Nuys Wrongful Death Lawyer Wrongful Death Representation in Van Nuys

When a loved one dies due to another party’s negligence, families are left navigating grief alongside sudden financial and legal concerns. Medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income or support can compound an already devastating situation.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we understand that no legal action can undo this loss. Our role is to help families pursue wrongful death claims against responsible parties under California law, while handling the legal process with care and clarity.

Our Van Nuys wrongful death attorneys take the time to understand each family’s circumstances, explain available options in plain terms, and manage insurer disputes, evidence development, and procedural requirements. By handling these legal aspects, we aim to reduce the administrative burden during an already difficult time and help families focus on what matters most.

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If you’ve lost a loved one in Van Nuys or Los Angeles County due to negligence or wrongful acts, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim under California law (§ 377.60). Families can seek compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering, but claims must be filed within two years. Common cases involve car accidents, workplace incidents, defective products, and unsafe property conditions.
At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we bring years of experience handling complex wrongful death matters and preparing cases for potential litigation.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit brought when a person’s death is caused by another party’s wrongful act, negligence, or intent to harm. Unlike criminal cases, which focus on punishment, these claims focus on justice and financial compensation for the family members left behind.

California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60 is the law that defines who can file a wrongful death lawsuit when a person dies due to someone else’s wrongful act or neglect.
It outlines a hierarchy of individuals who can bring a claim, either on their own behalf or through the deceased person’s personal representative.
Here’s a breakdown of who can file a claim:

Primary Heirs

The first group with the right to file includes the deceased person’s surviving spouse, domestic partner, children, and the children of any deceased children.

Secondary Heirs

If there are no primary heirs, the right to file passes to those who would inherit the deceased person’s property according to California’s laws of intestate succession.

Dependent Family Members

Even if they don’t fall into the first group, a claim can also be filed by a putative spouse, children of a putative spouse, stepchildren, parents, or legal guardians (if the parents are deceased) if they were financially dependent on the deceased.

Dependent Minors

A minor can file a claim if, for the 180 days before the death, they lived in the deceased person’s household and were financially dependent on them for at least half of their support.

What Must Be Proven?

When families ask, “How do we actually prove a wrongful death case?” the answer comes down to four key elements. Think of these as the building blocks your attorney must put together to show the court what happened and why your family deserves justice.

1. Duty of Care

The first step is showing that the defendant owed your loved one a legal duty of care. This means they had a responsibility to act in a reasonably safe and responsible way.
For example, drivers must obey traffic laws, doctors must provide treatment consistent with medical standards, and property owners must keep their premises safe.

2. Breach of Duty

Next, you must prove that the defendant violated that duty. A breach can occur through action or inaction, such as a driver running a red light, a doctor failing to diagnose a serious condition, or an employer ignoring known workplace hazards.
Negligence means the defendant failed to act as a reasonable person would under the same circumstances.

3. Causation

It isn’t enough to show negligence, you also need to prove that this negligence directly caused your loved one’s death. Legally, this requires demonstrating that the defendant’s conduct was both the actual cause (“but for” their actions, the death would not have occurred) and the foreseeable, or proximate, cause.
In many cases, expert testimony like medical opinions or accident reconstructions helps establish this critical link.

4. Damages

Finally, the family must show that the death resulted in real losses. This includes clear evidence that your loved one passed away (such as a death certificate) and proof of the financial and emotional impact on the survivors.
Damages may include medical bills, funeral and burial costs, lost future income, and the immeasurable loss of companionship and support.

All four elements must be proven by a preponderance of the evidence, which means showing it is more likely than not that each element is true. Meeting these requirements is essential for a successful wrongful death lawsuit.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we know how to gather evidence, work with experts, and build a case that addresses each element clearly and effectively, presenting your family’s claim consistent with the facts and applicable law.
Proving all four elements can feel overwhelming, but if you want guidance, you can request a consultation to discuss your situation and let our Van Nuys wrongful death attorneys guide you through the process with care and determination.

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Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Van Nuys

Wrongful deaths in Van Nuys and throughout Los Angeles County often arise from preventable accidents or negligence. Families in our community face these tragedies every year, and many turn to the courts for justice and financial relief. Some of the most common causes include:

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Workplace Accidents

Defective Products

Premises Liability Accidents

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Fatal car accidents, motorcycle crashes, truck collisions, and pedestrian injuries are among the leading causes of wrongful death in Van Nuys. Negligent driving behaviors, such as speeding on the busy streets of the San Fernando Valley, distracted driving on freeways, or driving under the influence, often lead to devastating losses.

If you’ve lost a loved one due to any of these causes in Van Nuys or the surrounding areas, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

A wrongful death lawsuit is designed to provide surviving family members with financial relief after the tragic loss of a loved one. These damages fall into two main categories: those owed to the decedent for what they suffered before passing, and those owed to the family for the losses they endure afterward.

Damages the Decedent Could Have Claimed

If your loved one survived for any period of time after the accident or negligent act, you may be entitled to compensation for what they went through before their death. These damages can include:

Medical expenses : Costs of emergency care, hospital treatment, medication, or other healthcare services provided between the accident and the time of death.
Lost wages : Income your loved one was unable to earn while injured.
Pain and suffering : Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress your loved one endured as a result of the incident.

Damages Experienced by the Family

Families also face significant financial and emotional losses after the passing of a loved one. These damages often include:

Funeral and burial expenses : Costs associated with laying a loved one to rest, which can easily run into thousands of dollars.
Loss of future wages and benefits : Compensation for the income the deceased would have provided over the course of their working life. This is especially critical for spouses, children, or other dependents.
Loss of companionship and support : Also known as loss of consortium, this reflects the emotional harm caused by losing the care, love, and guidance of a family member.
Emotional anguish : Recognition of the grief, stress, and suffering survivors experience after such a devastating loss.

While no amount of money can replace your loved one, securing financial compensation can ease the burdens families face. These damages are about more than dollars; they are about holding negligent parties accountable and giving your family the resources to begin rebuilding.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., our attorneys carefully calculate both the immediate and long-term damages your family has suffered. We work with medical experts, economists, and investigators to identify and document damages thoroughly, so your claim reflects the damages supported by documentation and expert analysis.

Why Time Is of the Essence?

In those cases, families may have as little as six months to file a notice of claim under California Government Code § 911.2.
Because these deadlines are strict and exceptions are rare, it’s important to be aware of deadlines and consider speaking with counsel promptly. Contacting our wrongful death lawyers can help preserve evidence and clarify deadlines. We work to protect your rights throughout the process.
We try to safeguard your family’s claim and guide you through every step of the process, so you don’t risk losing your opportunity for legal remedies and financial recovery available under the law.

In California, families have only a limited window to take legal action after the loss of a loved one. The law gives you two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations and is set out in California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1.

If you miss this two-year period, the court will likely dismiss your case, no matter how strong your evidence may be. That means you could lose the chance to recover compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and the emotional harm caused by your loss.
There are also situations where the timeline can be shorter or more complex, for example, if the claim involves a government entity (such as a wrongful death caused by a public employee or dangerous roadway condition).

Top Personal Injury Lawyers |
Prestige Law Firm P.C – Get
Justice Today

Injured in a car accident or due to someone else’s negligence? Prestige Law’s experienced injury attorneys are ready to fight for you.
Book your free consultation today and let us help you win the compensation you deserve.

Book your free consultation today and let us help you win the compensation you deserve.

Book a Free Consultation

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Why Choose Prestige Law Firm P.C.?

Selecting the right attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll make after losing a loved one. At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we combine compassion, local expertise, and courtroom strength to guide families in Van Nuys and across Los Angeles County through the most difficult times of their lives.
Here’s what clients can expect:

Compassionate Guidance

Losing a loved one is overwhelming. Our attorneys know how heavy these cases feel, and we treat every client with respect and care.
From the first consultation through the final resolution, we take the time to listen, explain your options in plain language, and guide you with empathy.

Local Expertise in Van Nuys and Los Angeles

Our firm has decades of experience representing families in Van Nuys, the San Fernando Valley, and across Los Angeles County. We understand the local courts, judges, and insurance companies, local familiarity that can inform strategy and case management.

Litigation Experience and Trial Preparation

Prestige Law Firm P.C. brings over two decades of experience handling complex wrongful death and personal injury cases. We prepare every matter with litigation in mind, building evidence and strategy based on the facts and law. This thorough approach supports informed negotiations and clear, effective courtroom presentation when needed.

No Upfront Fees

We believe justice should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. Attorney fees are contingent on recovery. Case costs and expenses may apply as described in the fee agreement.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Companies

Founding attorney Paul Aghabala spent years working for insurance companies as defense counsel. Our team also includes former claim adjusters. This insider knowledge lets us anticipate the tactics insurers use to minimize settlements and stay one step ahead.

Willingness to Take Difficult Cases

Our firm is willing to evaluate and handle complex and high-stakes wrongful death claims when supported by the facts and law. From smaller cases to complex, high-stakes lawsuits, we are prepared to address complex and challenging claims.

Commitment to the Community

Our work doesn’t stop in the courtroom. We support the Greater Los Angeles community through nonprofit partnerships, such as helping homeless veterans, and organize annual toy drives for children in foster care. Serving families both legally and personally is part of who we are.

Recognized Legal Excellence

Our attorneys have been recognized as Super Lawyers and Rising Stars through peer-reviewed attorney selection programs. These accolades reflect the respect we’ve earned from peers, judges, and most importantly, our clients.

What to Expect When You Contact Us?

Contacting a lawyer after the loss of a loved one may feel overwhelming. At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we work hard to make the process clear, respectful, and as stress-free as possible.
From the first phone call to the final resolution, here’s what you can expect when you place your trust in our team:

Free Consultation

We begin with a no-cost, no-obligation consultation. This is a chance for you to share your story in a safe, confidential space. We listen carefully, answer your immediate questions, and explain how wrongful death claims work in California. Many families tell us they feel relief simply from understanding their options.

Case Evaluation

If you choose to move forward, our attorneys will conduct a thorough evaluation of your case. We review accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and any other documents you may already have.
We also assess who may be legally responsible, what types of damages may be recoverable, and how strong your case is under California law.

Detailed Investigation

From there, we build the evidence needed to prove liability. Our team works with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and financial professionals to show not only how the death occurred, but also the financial and emotional impact it has had on your family. This investigation stage is critical, it supports informed negotiations and, when necessary, effective presentation at trial.

Strong and Compassionate Representation

We handle every communication with insurance companies, employers, or opposing attorneys so you don’t have to. Our approach is assertive and careful in protecting your legal rights, and compassionate in how we guide you through each step. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. With more than two decades of trial experience, we are prepared to litigate when appropriate under the law and evidence.

Contingency Fee Promise

One of the most common concerns families have is cost. At Prestige Law Firm, you never pay upfront fees. We work on a contingency basis, meaning our fee is a percentage of any recovery obtained.
Attorney fees are contingent on recovery. Case costs and expenses may apply as described in the fee agreement.

Standing With You After a Wrongful Death

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., our Van Nuys personal injury attorneys combine compassion with over two decades of legal experience. We have experience addressing insurer disputes and navigating insurance claim processes, preparing cases for trial, and advocating firmly for families across Van Nuys, the San Fernando Valley, and Greater Los Angeles.

You don’t have to navigate this process alone. We’re here to listen, guide, and advocate for you every step of the way.

Call us at 818-788-0808 or contact us online to schedule your free, confidential consultation.

Let Prestige Law Firm P.C. be the advocate your family can rely on during this difficult time.

Contact Us

Visit or call one of our Los Angeles area offices:

Sherman Oaks Office

818-788-0808
14541 Sylvan Street Van Nuys, CA 91411
info@prestigelaw.com

Encino Office

818-425-9815
15915 Ventura Blvd. Penthouse 5\Encino,CA 91436
info@prestigelaw.com

Palmdale Office

661-341-3939
1043 W. Ave M-4 Suite B, Palmdale, CA 93551
info@prestigelaw.com

What Our Client Say About Us

Thank you Prestige law firm. They are great at communicating and providing updates. Thank you Mr. Paul and Team.

Sam Aguila
Estoy muy agredecido con Paul. El abogado Paul me ayudo con mi caso. Recomiendo a esta firma porque son muy professionales y se preocupan de sus clientes. Muchas gracias Prestige law.

Vicente Ixmay
Fue muy buena, y me atendieron de inmediato y siempre al pendiente de lo que se necesitaba para que mi caso fuera lo mejor posible, el abogado muy bien y todo el personal de oficina amables y al pendiente de todo, fue una experiencia muy buena. Muchas gracias. Atte. DANIEL GARCIA BALDERAS.

Lencho Cruz
I’d like to sincerely thank Paul Aghabala and the Prestige Law firm for all of their time and hard work. I was a scared kid when I reached out and they helped me through the hardest time in my life. They truly fought for me. Thank you!

emily.
It has been a pleasure dealing with Paul and his associates. They genuinely care about you and your case. They are knowledgeable, honest and caring about you and your progress. Thank you for your service. I will definitely be back.

Irina Law
Awesome firm to handle my car accident! I got rear ended last year on Valentine’s Day 2024 and that was a bummer. After being referred to this team of professional attorneys they handled my case with care and continuous communication through all of my medical care. I felt they did their job with integrity and I would recommend them if you’re ever in a car accident. Thanks Prestige!

Michelle Landrum
Prestige Law son un grupo de Abogado’s Que me ayudaron a obtener lo Maximo en llevar mi caso de accidente

Carlos Castanon
Maravillosos mi caso ya esta cerrado con muy buenas ganancias para mi. Super recomendados.

Ivon Guerra Leon
I never in a million years thought that I would be one of those people to get hit in the rear it was totally devastating and I had no idea what to do. I made contact with the prestige law firm and they totally put me at ease not only did they get me Immediate medical attention and help with my aches and pains they got me a settlement that was beyond my wildest dreams I will always be grateful to them. I hope I’m never in another accident but if I am I will definitely be calling the prestige Law Firm

Lisa McClelland

FAQ

What is considered a wrongful death in California?

How is a wrongful death case different from a criminal case?

What happens during a wrongful death lawsuit?

Do I need a Van Nuys-based wrongful death lawyer?

Who can file a wrongful death claim in California?

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Van Nuys Wrongful Death Lawyer