Beverly Hills’s palm-lined streets are a vibrant social tapestry. When a sudden tragedy tears that fabric apart—like when a loved one dies because of someone else’s negligence—the loss can be destabilizing.
In these agonizing moments, your quest for answers can be more than just a mission; it can be a necessary path toward healing. Fortunately, an experienced Beverly Hills wrongful death attorney can help you down this road, paving the way to closure.
At Peerali Law, our wrongful death attorneys understand you deserve more than mere legal representation. You deserve someone who will listen, stand up for your rights, and honor your loved one’s memory.
That’s why our dedicated wrongful death attorneys are here to offer compassionate guidance and unwavering advocacy, helping you navigate California’s complex legal system so you can focus on finding peace and moving forward.
What Is a Wrongful Death Case?
In California, when someone’s negligent or intentional actions cause your loved one’s death, you or survivors typically have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This civil action seeks monetary compensation from the responsible party. To successfully bring a wrongful death claim, you must typically demonstrate the following:
- Duty of care—the responsible party owed your loved one a duty of care;
- Breach of duty—the responsible party breached that duty through action or inaction;
- Causation—the breach directly led to your loved one’s death; and
- Damages—your loved one death resulted in quantifiable losses to surviving family members.
At Peerali Law, we know pursuing legal action will not bring your loved one back. That’s why we’re devoted to fighting for a settlement that helps cover funeral costs and provides financial support. Reach out to us for a free consultation; our clients are like family, and that’s how we’ll approach your needs.
How Can a Beverly Hills Wrongful Death Attorney at Peerali Law Assist Me?
Our Beverly Hills wrongful death lawyers are here to handle your legal burdens so you can focus on healing. With over $10 million recovered for clients, our firm combines legal expertise with compassionate support, offering:
- Local expertise—with deep roots in the Beverly Hills community, we understand the local legal landscape;
- Comprehensive case management—from investigation to litigation, we handle all case aspects;
- Expert collaboration—we work with medical and financial experts to strengthen your case;
- Personalized attention—as a boutique firm, we provide individualized care and open communication;
- Proven strategies—our courtroom experience and negotiation skills aim to maximize your compensation;
- Transparent communication—we keep you informed at every step, ensuring you understand your options;
- No upfront fees—we operate on a contingency fee basis; you pay nothing unless we win your case; and
- Dedicated advocacy—we are committed to fighting tirelessly to secure justice for your loved one.
Our client-first approach has earned us outstanding reviews and a reputation for excellence in the Beverly Hills community.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death and Working with a Beverly Hills Wrongful Death Lawyer
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California?
Under California law, a surviving spouse, domestic partner, child, or grandchild (if the children are deceased) can file a wrongful death claim. If none of these relatives exist, others financially dependent on the decedent may also be allowed to file.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim?
Generally, you have two years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit in California. If you miss this deadline, you could forfeit your right to compensation. So it’s crucial to promptly consult with a Beverly Hills wrongful death attorney at Peerali Law.
Can Multiple Family Members File Separate Wrongful Death Lawsuits?
No. California law requires all eligible beneficiaries to join a single wrongful death lawsuit. This collective approach ensures multiple people do not sue the defendant for the same incident.
What Types of Damages Can I Recover in a Wrongful Death Case?
You may be entitled to both economic and noneconomic damages. Economic damages include medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, and loss of financial support. Noneconomic damages cover loss of companionship, love, affection, guidance, and emotional support. A skilled Beverly Hills wrongful death lawyer at Peerali Law will work with you to ensure you collect all the damages you’re entitled to.
How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
The timeline varies depending on your case’s complexity, the number of parties involved, and whether your case settles out of court or goes to trial. Generally, a resolution could take several months to a few years.
Can I Still File a Wrongful Death Claim If My Loved One Was Partially at Fault?
Yes. California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if your loved one was partially responsible for the incident. However, courts may reduce compensation by their percentage of fault.
Can I Ask for Punitive Damages in Wrongful Death Cases?
Sometimes. In extreme negligence or intentional harm cases, courts may award punitive damages to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct.
What Is the Difference Between a Wrongful Death Claim and a Survival Action?
A wrongful death claim seeks compensation for the losses you suffered when your loved one died, for example, loss of financial support and companionship. A survival action allows your loved one’s estate to recover damages they could have claimed had they survived, including any medical expenses and pain and suffering before death.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Wrongful Death Attorney?
At Peerali Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront fees. We only get paid if we recover compensation, taking an agreed-upon percentage of the settlement or judgment.
Can I File a Wrongful Death Claim If Criminal Charges Are Also Pending?
Yes. A wrongful death civil lawsuit is separate from criminal proceedings. You can file a wrongful death claim regardless of whether the state pursues criminal charges against the responsible party.
How Do I Prove How My Loss Impacts Me Emotionally?
Evidence such as personal testimonies, letters, photographs, and videos can illustrate your relationship with your loved one. Expert witnesses like psychologists may also provide evaluations to support your claim for noneconomic damages. At Peerali Law, we work with numerous experts to ensure you recover everything you’re entitled to.
Is There a Damages Cap in California Wrongful Death Cases?
No. In wrongful death cases, California does not impose a general cap on economic or noneconomic damages. The only exception is in medical malpractice claims, where courts cap noneconomic damages at $250,000.
What Should I Bring to My Initial Consultation with My Attorney?
Please bring any relevant documents, such as the death certificate, police reports, medical records, insurance policies, and correspondence with insurance companies or the defendant. This information will help us assess your case more effectively.
Contact Peerali Law Today
We know this is a challenging time for you and your family. At Peerali Law, we’re here to listen and help every step of the way. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with us.
Let’s talk about what you’re facing and how we can help you secure the financial stability and peace of mind your family deserves. You’re more than just a case to us—let us be a support system you can rely on.