Name: Mason Law, P.C.
Address: 1024 Iron Point Road, Folsom, CA 95630, CA, US
Telephone: (916) 587-2997
Price range: Free Consultation

What Is a Wrongful Death Case?

Few experiences are more painful than losing a loved one because of someone else’s negligence. California’s wrongful death law allows certain surviving family members to seek compensation when a death is caused by another’s wrongful act. While no claim can replace the person you lost, it can provide a measure of accountability and financial stability for those left behind.

Who may file a wrongful death claim

California Code of Civil Procedure sections 377.60 through 377.62 set out who may bring a wrongful death action. This typically includes the surviving spouse or domestic partner, children, and — in some circumstances — other dependents or heirs. A related “survival” action may also allow the deceased person’s estate to recover certain losses the person experienced before death.

Recoverable damages

Damages in a California wrongful death case may include funeral and burial expenses, the financial support the deceased would have provided, and the loss of the loved one’s companionship, care, and guidance. Because these matters are sensitive and the value depends heavily on the family’s circumstances, compensation varies based on the specific facts of each case.

Deadlines and how we help

The statute of limitations for wrongful death in California is generally two years under Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1, though a shorter six-month deadline may apply if a public entity is involved. We handle these cases with sensitivity, managing the investigation and the insurance companies so families across California — from San Diego to Sacramento to Oakland — can grieve and begin to heal.

Golden State Injury Lawyers offers a free, confidential, no-pressure consultation, and there is no fee unless we recover for your family. This page is general information and not legal advice.

Common Causes

What Causes These Cases

Fatal car and truck collisions

Pedestrian and bicycle fatalities

Catastrophic workplace incidents

Dangerous or defective products

Unsafe premises

Motorcycle collisions

Negligent security

Other acts of negligence

After an Injury

What to Do After a Wrongful Death

01

Get Medical Attention

Your health comes first. See a doctor promptly even if you feel fine — some injuries are not obvious right away, and prompt records also help document your claim.
02

Report the Incident

Notify the appropriate party — call law enforcement, or tell the property owner, manager, or employer — and make sure a written report is created.
03

Document Everything

If you can, photograph the scene, your injuries, and anything that contributed to the wrongful death. Collect names and contact details for any witnesses.
04

Keep Your Records

Save medical bills, proof of lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses. Keep a simple journal of how your injuries affect your daily life.
05

Talk to an Attorney First

Before giving a recorded statement or accepting any offer from an insurance company, speak with an attorney. The consultation is free.

Know Your Rights

California Laws You Should Know

How long do I have to file a claim? (Statute of Limitations)

In California, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of injury under Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1. If a government entity is involved, you may have as little as six months to file a claim under the California Government Claims Act. Because deadlines vary, it is best to speak with an attorney promptly.

What if I was partly at fault? (Pure Comparative Negligence)

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, established in Li v. Yellow Cab Co. (1975). You may still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault — your recovery is simply reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

What duty did the other party owe me? (Duty of Care)

Under California Civil Code section 1714, everyone is generally responsible for harm caused by their failure to use reasonable care. Establishing that another party breached this duty is a key part of most injury claims.

What damages does California law allow? (Civil Code 3333)

California Civil Code section 3333 sets the measure of damages for most non-contract claims — the amount that will compensate for all the detriment caused, whether or not it could have been anticipated. This can include economic and non-economic losses. Compensation amounts vary based on the specific facts of your case.

Compensation

Damages You May Recover

Economic Damages

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages and lost earning capacity
Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Out-of-pocket and travel expenses
Property damage
In-home assistance or future care

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Loss of enjoyment of life
Disfigurement and scarring
Loss of consortium or companionship
Inconvenience and disruption

Compensation amounts vary based on the specific facts of your case.

Case Results

Wrongful Death Case Results

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique.

$1.4M Wrongful Death

Recovery for a family following a fatal multi-vehicle crash.

Our Team

Meet Your Legal Team

Experienced California personal injury attorneys dedicated to your recovery.

Shannon Ramos

Founder & Attorney at Law

Shannon Ramos is a California-licensed attorney practicing family law since 2013. Loyal, detail-driven, and known in the courtroom as “El Toro,” she brings relentless preparation and trial skill to every case.

View Profile