Losing someone because of another person’s mistake isn’t just painful it leaves a space in your life that can’t be filled. You’re left with questions, bills, and a quiet that feels wrong. At the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti, we understand that no lawsuit can undo what’s happened. But legal action can help bring answers. It can ease financial stress and make sure those responsible are held accountable.
As a personal injury attorney in North Hollywood, Adrianos Facchetti has helped families through some of their hardest days. We’re here to guide you through each step, clearly and calmly and to make sure you’re not going through this alone.
What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California?
A wrongful death lawsuit is a way for families to take legal action when someone dies because of someone else’s carelessness or wrongful act. It’s not about criminal charges those are handled by the state. This is a civil case. It’s about the people left behind having a voice.
Under California’s wrongful death laws, a family can file a lawsuit to seek compensation for things like funeral costs, lost wages, and the emotional loss of their loved one. Think of it as holding the at-fault party responsible in a way that helps the surviving family rebuild, financially and emotionally.
We once helped a mother whose son died in a fatal accident involving a commercial truck. The driver had been working too many hours without rest. Her lawsuit didn’t just recover compensation it helped push the company to change their scheduling policy.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in North Hollywood?
Not everyone can file a wrongful death claim. In California, the right usually goes to close family the surviving spouse, children, or sometimes the parents. If there’s no direct relative, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate may be able to bring the case.
It gets a little more specific depending on your relationship to the person and what local courts consider. That’s where a wrongful death attorney near you, someone who knows North Hollywood and its court system, really helps.
A recent client, for example, was the stepchild of the deceased. Initially unsure if he had the right to file, he reached out for a case evaluation. We reviewed his connection, proved financial dependence, and helped him move forward with the wrongful death action.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death We Handle
Wrongful death cases can stem from many situations, but they all have one thing in common someone failed to act with care, and another person lost their life because of it.
Car accidents are one of the most common. In LA County alone, fatal crashes have been rising. We’ve helped families after high-speed collisions, hit-and-runs, and crashes involving rideshare drivers.
Medical malpractice is another. A missed diagnosis or surgical error can change everything. One family came to us after their father was given the wrong medication post-surgery. It turned out the hospital had been understaffed for weeks.
We also see cases involving workplace injuries like a contractor falling from faulty scaffolding and defective products, from airbags that don’t deploy to appliances that spark fires.
Other wrongful death claims involve unsafe properties or violent crimes. Whatever the cause, we work to prove that the death wasn’t just tragic it was preventable.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Case?
When a loved one dies because of someone else’s actions, the impact is deep not just emotionally, but financially. A wrongful death lawsuit helps surviving family members recover compensation for what’s been lost.
You can seek economic damages like medical bills, funeral and burial expenses, and the income your loved one would have provided. For example, we helped a family whose primary earner died in a workplace accident. They were able to recover lost wages that helped cover their mortgage and everyday living costs.
There are also non-economic damages. These cover pain and suffering, the loss of companionship, and the emotional weight of life without that person. While no dollar amount can replace love or presence, it can recognize what’s missing.
In rare cases, courts award punitive damages. These aren’t just to cover losses, but to send a message when the responsible party showed reckless or dangerous behavior like a trucking company that ignored safety checks.
How Our North Hollywood Wrongful Death Lawyers Can Help You
We’re not here to rush you or push paperwork. We’re here to help you understand your options, protect your rights, and fight for what’s fair from the first phone call to the final settlement.
Investigation & Evidence Gathering
To prove a wrongful death case, you need more than a gut feeling. We work with accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, and investigators. We dig into police reports, witness statements, and safety logs to find the facts that matter.
In one case, a family was told a car crash was just “bad luck.” Our experts showed the other driver had a brake issue that should’ve been fixed. That detail changed everything.
Negotiation and Trial Preparation
Most wrongful death cases settle but not all. If an insurance company refuses to take your case seriously, we’re ready. We prepare like it’s going to trial from day one. That preparation gives us leverage when it’s time to negotiate.
We've gone up against national insurance companies who tried to delay and deny claims. Having a legal team ready to fight in court changes how seriously they take your case.
Compassionate Support Throughout the Process
We answer your calls. We explain things clearly. And we never treat your case like just another file. You’ll work directly with attorney Adrianos Facchetti not passed from one assistant to another.
Some families need regular updates. Others prefer fewer calls. We adjust to your pace. This isn’t just legal help it’s personal support at a time when you need it most.
Understanding the Wrongful Death Lawsuit Timeline
If you're thinking about filing a wrongful death claim, it helps to know what to expect. These cases take time and not just because of paperwork. There's a process behind each phase.
It starts with filing the lawsuit. Then comes discovery, where both sides gather evidence and exchange information. Mediation often follows this is when both parties try to reach a fair settlement without going to court. If that doesn’t work, the case moves to trial.
Some cases wrap up in just a few months, especially when the facts are clear and the insurance company is willing to settle. Others can take a year or more even two particularly when expert testimony or accident reconstruction is needed.
We had a client whose father died in a crash involving a rideshare driver. Because we had strong evidence early on, we were able to resolve the case in under six months no trial needed.
Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in California
In California, you usually have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. That might sound like plenty of time, but the earlier you start, the better your chances.
There are exceptions. For example, if the death was tied to medical malpractice, or if a government agency is involved, different timelines may apply. That’s why it’s smart to speak with a North Hollywood wrongful death lawyer early.
We've had families reach out just weeks before the deadline. In some cases, we were able to act fast and file in time. But we’ve also had to turn people away because the window had closed. Don’t wait to find out.
Why Choose Our North Hollywood Wrongful Death Attorneys?
There are a lot of law firms out there. So why work with us?
We focus on wrongful death and personal injury cases and we’ve done so for years right here in North Hollywood. Our legal team knows the local courts, judges, and insurance strategies. That local knowledge makes a real difference.
We also believe every family deserves more than just a lawyer. You deserve someone who listens, explains things clearly, and treats your case with care. Whether it’s a car accident, medical malpractice, or another form of negligence, we’re here to help you seek justice and compensation without feeling lost in the legal system.
Attorney Adrianos Facchetti doesn’t pass cases down the line. He personally represents clients from start to finish. You won’t get canned updates or a one-size-fits-all approach.
A recent client told us, “I felt like I was being taken seriously not just legally, but as a person. That changed everything for me.”
If you want a trusted wrongful death law firm that actually sees you and not just your case number we’re ready to talk. The first consultation is free. Let's find out what we can do for you.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Wrongful Death Lawyer Near You
You don’t need to figure this out on your own. If you’re considering a wrongful death lawsuit, let’s talk. The first consultation is completely free. We’ll listen, ask the right questions, and help you understand what comes next no pressure, no rush.
You won’t pay us anything unless we win your case. That’s our promise.
Whether you're ready to file a claim or just need some clarity, get in touch with our attorneys at the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti. Call (626) 793-8607 or use our quick contact form. We’re here to help you seek justice and compensation for your loss.
We’ve been trusted by families throughout North Hollywood for years. Let’s see how we can help you too.
FAQs About Wrongful Death Claims in California
What qualifies as wrongful death?
A wrongful death happens when someone dies because of another person’s negligence or misconduct. That could be a car crash, a medical mistake, or a workplace accident. If your loved one’s death could’ve been avoided, you may have a case.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In most cases, California gives you two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. There are exceptions, especially if a government agency or medical malpractice is involved. It’s best to speak with an attorney early so you don’t lose your chance.
How much is my case worth?
That depends on a lot of things like your loved one’s income, your relationship, and the circumstances of the case. We've helped clients recover everything from funeral costs to future lost income. Every case is different, and we’ll go over that with you during your free consultation.
Do I need a lawyer for a wrongful death case?
Technically, no but wrongful death laws are complex. Proving things like duty of care, breach of duty, and damages takes more than paperwork. A lawyer helps you build a strong case and deal with insurance companies who don’t always play fair.
Will I have to go to court?
Most wrongful death lawsuits settle before trial. But if the other side won’t offer what’s fair, we’re ready to take the case to court. And we prepare every case as if it might go that far so you’re never caught off guard.
What’s the difference between wrongful death and survival action?
A wrongful death claim is for the family it covers their losses. A survival action is filed on behalf of the deceased person’s estate and can include things like medical expenses or pain and suffering they experienced before passing. In many cases, families pursue both.
