Santa Monica Wrongful Death Lawyer

Unexpectedly losing a loved one in an accident is one of the most devastating experiences someone can go through. While no amount of money can replace your loss, we want grieving families to know that pursuing a wrongful death claim can hold the negligent party accountable and provide financial stability for your family’s future. Our Santa Monica, CA wrongful death lawyer is here to guide you forward with compassion and fight for justice on behalf of your loved one. When you’re ready to talk about your options, reach out to the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm today for a free consultation.

Wrongful Death Lawyer Santa Monica, CA

Wrongful death claims arise when someone’s careless or reckless actions directly lead to someone passing away. We’ve represented grieving families throughout Santa Monica, California, in a wide range of cases, including fatal auto accidents, hazardous property conditions, defective products, dog attacks, and more.

Families who file wrongful death claims can seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and the intangible emotional suffering that comes from losing a loved one. Our California wrongful death lawyer understands that these cases are never just about money, they’re about accountability, closure, and securing stability for those left behind. We’re here to advocate for you when you need it most.

Why Experience Matters In Wrongful Death Cases

Wrongful death cases are uniquely complicated because they involve both legal and deeply personal considerations. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and defendants may deny responsibility altogether. Having skilled, experienced attorneys by your side is critical.

At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we approach every wrongful death case with both strategic preparation and genuine compassion. We know what’s at stake for your family, and we’re committed to handling the legal battle so you can focus on grieving and healing. Here’s what sets our firm apart from others:

• 45+ Years Of Experience. Our team brings over four decades of combined experience handling catastrophic injury cases, including animal attacks, motor vehicle accidents, and dangerous property conditions.
• Track Record Of Substantial Settlements. We have secured significant settlements and verdicts for clients facing life-changing injuries, demonstrating our ability to advocate effectively for compensation.
• Quality Legal Education. Our founding attorney James V. Choulos earned his J.D. from Santa Clara University School of Law, and partner Victor Tsoi earned his J.D. from Thomas Jefferson School of Law, complementing their strong academic foundations with practical courtroom experience.
• Active Legal Leadership. Both of our lead attorneys participate in the San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association (SFTLA), with James also active in the Consumer Attorneys of California and the American Association for Justice (AAJ), reflecting their engagement in the broader legal community.
• People-Focused Representation. Our firm is committed to hands-on, compassionate representation, listening closely to your concerns and developing strategies tailored to your family’s specific needs and circumstances.

Our California injury firm is committed to helping families find a measure of justice and financial security after tragic accidents. We have the knowledge and compassion to handle sensitive wrongful death claims. You can count on us to advocate on behalf of your family’s best interests.

Compassionate Legal Support When It Matters Most

No one should have to go through the legal aftermath of a wrongful death without quality support. Our California wrongful death lawyers are here to provide the personable and skilled advocacy you need during this difficult life chapter. Call our team at the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm today to get set up with your free consultation.

Types Of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle

Wrongful death cases arise in many different ways, and each situation requires careful attention. Our Santa Monica wrongful death lawyer is here to stand by families as they pursue justice and financial support during such a difficult time. Below are types of cases we’ve successfully handled and are prepared to take on:

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Car, truck, and motorcycle crashes are among the most common causes of wrongful death. These accidents can happen because of reckless driving, distracted driving, or impaired driving. In some cases, commercial vehicles are involved, which may bring in additional liability issues. When families face the sudden loss of a loved one from a crash, we work to hold the responsible parties accountable.

Pedestrian And Bicycle Accidents

Pedestrians and bicyclists are at a high risk of serious injury when drivers fail to follow the rules of the road. A driver who speeds, runs a red light, or fails to yield can cause fatal harm to someone on foot or riding a bike. These cases often leave families with questions about liability and how to move forward. Our California wrongful death attorney is here to provide clear guidance in these tragic circumstances.

Workplace And Construction Incidents

Workplaces should be safe, but accidents still happen, especially in construction and industrial settings. Falls, equipment failures, and unsafe practices can lead to fatal injuries. In some cases, third parties such as contractors or equipment manufacturers may be responsible. Families deserve to know their options when a loved one does not return home from work due to unsafe conditions.

Premises Liability And Dangerous Conditions

Property owners have a responsibility to keep their premises safe. Fatal accidents can occur when dangerous conditions are left unaddressed, such as poor lighting, unsafe stairways, or lack of security. In other cases, a serious fall or another hazard can tragically take someone’s life. Our Santa Monica wrongful death lawyers have extensive experience helping families pursue justice in cases involving unsafe properties.

Dog Bites And Animal Attacks

Animal attacks can be especially traumatic, and in some cases, they can lead to fatal injuries. Dog bites are the most common example, but other animals can also cause harm when owners fail to take proper precautions. These cases often involve children or vulnerable individuals who may not be able to protect themselves. When negligence plays a role, our team can help families pursue justice and financial recovery.

Defective Products

Manufacturers and sellers have a duty to provide safe products. When a product is designed, manufactured, or marketed in a way that makes it dangerous, the results can be deadly. Wrongful death cases in this area may involve unsafe vehicles, machinery, medical devices, or consumer goods. Holding companies accountable can also prevent future harm to others.

Enlist Reliable Legal Support

Every wrongful death case is different, and yet all share one common thread: a family’s right to seek justice and compensation. We know that in the midst of grief, it can feel overwhelming to take legal action, and sometimes families worry they waited too long or missed something important. Even if some time has passed, help is still available. At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, our team is ready to review your situation, explain your options, and advocate for the support your family needs. Contact us today to learn how we can help you forward.

Types Of Damages Recoverable In Wrongful Death Cases

While no legal outcome can replace your loss, pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide financial support to help you cope with the challenges that follow. Different types of damages may be available depending on the circumstances of the case. Below, our Santa Monica wrongful death lawyer explains the main categories of damages that families may recover.

Medical Expenses Before Death

If your loved one received medical treatment related to the incident before passing, those costs may be part of a wrongful death claim. This can include hospital bills, surgeries, medications, or emergency services. Families often face these expenses unexpectedly, and recovering them helps ease some of the financial burden.

Funeral And Burial Costs

Funeral and burial services are expensive, and most families are unprepared to handle such costs on short notice. These expenses can be included as recoverable damages, allowing families to give their loved one a proper service without the added financial strain.

Loss Of Financial Support

One of the most significant damages in wrongful death cases is the loss of financial contributions the deceased would have provided. This includes wages, benefits, and retirement income. Courts may also consider the deceased’s future earning potential, particularly if they were young or in the middle of their career. Our wrongful death attorneys can help assess and present these financial impacts clearly.

Loss Of Companionship And Support

Emotional losses are equally important in wrongful death cases. Surviving family members may seek compensation for the loss of love, guidance, and companionship that the deceased provided. While these losses are harder to measure in financial terms, they carry immense weight in a family’s life. Our team can help explain how courts evaluate these damages.

Loss Of Household Services

Beyond income, many people provide valuable support at home, such as childcare, household maintenance, or caregiving for elderly relatives. When that contribution is gone, families may need to hire outside help. Damages can account for the value of these services, recognizing the role the deceased played in everyday family life.

Pain And Suffering Of The Deceased

If your loved one endured pain and suffering before passing away, those damages may also be recoverable. These are considered separate from the family’s grief and focus on the conscious pain experienced by the deceased due to the accident or incident.

Punitive Damages

In certain cases, punitive damages may be available. These are not tied directly to the family’s loss but are intended to punish especially reckless or intentional behavior by the at-fault party. While not awarded in every case, they can play a role in holding wrongdoers accountable. Our Santa Monica personal injury and wrongful death lawyers can review whether this type of recovery may apply.

Seek Justice On Behalf Of Your Loved One

At Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we believe that wrongful death cases are about more than just financial compensation; they are about accountability and providing hurt families with the support they need to move forward. If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s actions, we are here to guide you through the legal process and pursue the damages available to your family. Contact us today to learn how we can help you take the next step.

Santa Monica Wrongful Death Infographic

Santa Monica Wrongful Death Statistics

Wrongful death claims in the United States encompass fatalities resulting from another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm. These claims span various circumstances, including motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, workplace incidents, and defective products.

Leading Causes of Wrongful Death:

1. Motor Vehicle Accidents: Automobile collisions are a predominant cause of wrongful death. Factors such as distracted driving, driving under the influence, and speeding contribute significantly to these fatalities.
2. Medical Malpractice: Errors in medical care, including misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, and medication errors, lead to numerous wrongful death cases annually. Studies indicate that medical errors are among the top causes of death in the U.S. .
3. Workplace Accidents: Occupational hazards, especially in industries like construction and manufacturing, result in fatal injuries. Employers are legally obligated to provide a safe working environment, and failure to do so can lead to wrongful death claims.
4. Defective Products: Manufacturers and sellers can be held liable for deaths caused by faulty products, ranging from household items to industrial machinery.

Legal Recourse:

Surviving family members, including spouses, children, and sometimes parents, can file wrongful death lawsuits to seek compensation for their loss. These claims aim to address financial losses, emotional suffering, and punitive damages. Each state has specific statutes of limitations and requirements for filing such claims, making it crucial for families to consult with legal professionals experienced in wrongful death cases.

Wrongful Death FAQs

Accidents can turn tragic, sometimes resulting in the loss of a loved one. The aftermath of these events brings many questions, and finding clear, straightforward answers is an important step in getting through the difficult times ahead.  Our Santa Monica wrongful death lawyer is here to guide you through this challenging time with care and commitment. Below is a set of frequently asked questions that address wrongful death claims. We hope that by addressing these common inquiries, you will feel more informed about the next steps in pursuing a wrongful death claim.

What’s The Average Settlement For A Wrongful Death In California?

It is important to know that there is no fixed amount because every case is unique. The settlement in a wrongful death case depends on many factors, including the victim’s age, the loss of future earnings, the impact on family members, and the extent of the evidence available.

Although some cases have reached settlements in the tens of thousands, others have resulted in awards that exceed several million dollars. The outcome is highly influenced by the specifics of the accident and the quality of the evidence presented. For this reason, a thorough review of the facts is essential when determining the value of a case.

What Damages Are Available In Wrongful Death Cases?

In such cases, damages are intended to cover the loss and impact felt by those left behind. These damages typically include economic losses such as lost wages and benefits, as well as funeral and burial costs.

In many cases, courts also award compensation for non-economic losses, which may cover the pain and suffering experienced by family members, loss of companionship, and emotional distress. The goal is to address both the financial and emotional toll that the loss imposes on the surviving family.

How Do I Prove Wrongful Death?

To successfully establish a wrongful death claim, it is crucial to demonstrate that the death was directly caused by the negligence or wrongful actions of another party. This generally means gathering clear evidence that links the accident to the fatal injuries.

Documentation such as police reports, medical records, and witness accounts plays an important role. Additionally, you may need to provide financial records that show the economic loss suffered by the family because of the death. Each piece of evidence reinforces your claim and builds a stronger case that shows liability.

What Evidence Do I Need For A Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Gathering the right evidence is critical to support your claim. This evidence can include the accident report from law enforcement, medical records showing treatment and diagnosis following the accident, and any documents showing financial losses related to the accident.

Witness statements and photographic evidence of the accident scene are also beneficial. All of this helps to create a clear picture of the circumstances that led to the loss and assists in establishing fault on the part of the responsible party.

Why Should I Hire A Wrongful Death Attorney?

Hiring an attorney can be vital in guiding you through the legal process and in handling the paperwork and communications with insurance companies. An attorney helps organize all necessary evidence, speaks on your behalf during negotiations, and works to secure fair compensation for your loss.

When you work with our Santa Monica wrongful death lawyer, you receive personalized guidance that respects your situation and fights for your rights. Furthermore, having the right legal support can reduce the stress of dealing with a complicated legal process, allowing you to concentrate on healing.

Wrongful Death Glossary

If you’ve lost a loved one in an accident caused by someone’s actions, you may be seeking answers during one of the most difficult times in your life. A Santa Monica, CA wrongful death lawyer can help you make sense of your legal options and support your family’s right to pursue compensation. Below are several key legal terms and concepts that frequently come up in wrongful death cases. These explanations can help clarify your path forward and prepare you for the steps ahead.

Civil Suit for Wrongful Death

A civil suit for wrongful death refers to a lawsuit filed in civil court by eligible family members against the person or entity responsible for causing someone’s death. This type of lawsuit is completely separate from any criminal case. A civil suit focuses on recovering financial compensation rather than criminal punishment. In California, the civil process allows family members to seek justice even when no criminal charges are filed. The outcome of a civil suit is determined by a preponderance of the evidence, which means the claim must be more likely true than not.

Financial Dependents

In wrongful death claims, financial dependents are individuals who relied on the deceased for regular monetary support. These may include a spouse, domestic partner, children, or, in some cases, stepchildren and other relatives. California law allows financial dependents to file a wrongful death lawsuit if they can demonstrate a history of support. This support could be in the form of housing, food, medical care, or direct financial contributions. Courts will consider documentation such as bank transfers, leases, or tax returns to assess the nature of dependency.

Guardian ad Litem

A guardian ad litem is a person appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a minor or an adult who is unable to represent themselves in a wrongful death claim. For example, if a child is one of the heirs to the deceased, a guardian ad litem may be assigned to protect their interests throughout the legal process. This representative is typically a parent or family member but must be approved by the court. Their role is to make decisions in the legal case on behalf of the minor or legally incapacitated individual.

Intestate Succession

Intestate succession refers to the legal process that determines how property is distributed when someone dies without a valid will. In wrongful death cases, this concept helps courts decide who has the legal right to bring a claim when closer relatives like spouses or children are not available. California’s intestate succession laws prioritize heirs in a specific order, such as parents, siblings, or grandparents. These laws guide who may legally file a wrongful death claim and potentially receive compensation if no direct dependents are involved.

Subpoena of Records

A subpoena of records is a legal tool used to require individuals or organizations to produce documents relevant to a wrongful death case. This may include medical records, safety inspections, employment files, or internal reports. In cases involving businesses, product manufacturers, or healthcare facilities, our legal team may issue subpoenas to uncover information about how the incident occurred and who may be responsible. These records often play a vital role in establishing a timeline of events and determining how the death could have been prevented.

If you’ve recently lost a family member in an incident caused by someone’s actions, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. At Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we work closely with families throughout Santa Monica, helping them evaluate their options and pursue justice with confidence.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you take the next step forward.

We’re Ready To Help

At Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we are dedicated to assisting those who have suffered the loss of a loved one due to a personal injury accident. If you have further questions or need personalized assistance, please reach out to us. Contact our Santa Monica wrongful death lawyer today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the next step in seeking the justice and compensation you deserve.