Unexpectedly losing your loved one due to a negligent party creates a wide chasm of grief and loss. When your life has been turned upside down, taking legal action during this difficult and emotional time can feel daunting. However, a compassionate wrongful death lawyer in San Francisco can handle your case for you and guide you gently through the process.
At the Ryan Law Group, we take the time to get to know you and build a relationship so we can serve you better. As a boutique law firm, we can provide personalized service, tailor our strategies to your circumstances, and devote more time to your case.
A San Francisco personal injury lawyer will remain by your side and advocate for you. They will also ensure that you are protected and treated fairly.
The Ryan Law Group Protects and Fights for You
The Ryan Law Group knows how difficult this time is as you are trying to process the loss of your loved one. When life feels overwhelming, our team can step in and help you get justice. We also help you get the resources you need to get closure and move forward. We handle the logistics, communications, and negotiations involved in your case so you do not have to.
Wrongful death cases can be complicated and nuanced, and this is one of the many reasons why you need a wrongful death lawyer after the death of your loved one. They have extensive knowledge about the law and how to navigate the various legal requirements of the case. A lawyer is also familiar with what challenges may arise and how to handle them so your interests and rights are protected.
When you hire our team, we gain a thorough understanding of your circumstances so we can customize our approach and get you the most favorable outcome possible. With nearly three decades of experience, we have a proven track record of success in helping clients rebuild their lives.
For a Free Legal Consultation With a Wrongful Death Lawyer Serving San Francisco, Call (310) 321-4800
Individuals Who Are Eligible to File Wrongful Death Lawsuits
A wrongful death occurs when another party has engaged in actions of gross negligence that result in a loss of life. In these situations, surviving family members can take action on behalf of their loved one, especially if the decedent would have had a right to file a personal injury claim in life. These lawsuits are generally brought by the family’s personal representative on their behalf.
Wrongful death lawsuits are generally for the benefit of the decedent’s spouse and any children they may have had. As such, they are usually entitled to initiate a wrongful death claim. If the decedent did not have a spouse or child, then the next available surviving family member (parents, siblings, grandparents, etc.) can take action per California’s intestate succession laws.
Wrongful death lawsuits are limited to those closest to the decedent since death benefits are designed to cover both the unexpected costs related to the decedent’s death, but to provide support in their wake and bridge the gap left in the family caused by the loss.
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A Wrongful Death Attorney in San Francisco Will Demonstrate the At-Fault Party’s Liability
When you file a wrongful death lawsuit against the party responsible for killing your loved one, your lawyer will investigate their actions and gather evidence so they can build you a strong case. While the other party’s role may be clear, due diligence is still necessary. Evidence must be used to support your claim and clearly establish how the other party’s actions resulted in the decedent’s death by showing:
- Duty of care: The other party had a responsibility to act in a way that ensured safety for those around them.
- Breach of duty: The other party disregarded their responsibility, acted negligently, and failed to use caution.
- Causation: Because of the severity of their actions, the other party caused an accident that led to your loved one’s death.
- Damages: The other party is liable for causing irreparable damage and is therefore responsible for paying for the harm they caused.
Each element plays an important role in systematically showing the other party’s responsibility and their connection to the decedent’s death. By satisfying this legal requirement, there can be no question of fault. Once they are considered liable, your lawyer can move forward with securing the compensation you are entitled to in your case.
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Compensation can Help You Offset Some of Your Unexpected Expenses
The loss of a loved one leaves a void in both your heart and your life. From their presence to the emotional and financial support they contributed to your family, the sense of loss can infiltrate every area of your life.
While compensation cannot bring them back, it can provide valuable support to help you move forward. A San Francisco wrongful death attorney can help you recover:
- End-of-life care
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost income and benefits
- Loss of inheritance
- Loss of companionship, consortium, care, and services
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional and mental anguish
Your lawyer will discuss and calculate your various losses to estimate how much your case is worth. They will negotiate with all applicable parties to ensure you receive all that you are entitled to recover. Your lawyer can also answer questions such as whether a wrongful death settlement is taxable in California. While it usually is not, your lawyer can prepare you for situations where portions of it could be taxed.
Wrongful Death Claims are Subject to Statute of Limitations
While pursuing a claim may feel overwhelming after the death of your loved one, you have a limited time to take action before you are cut off from further action.
According to California Code of Civil Procedures §335.1, all actions to recover compensation on behalf of your loved one must be done within two years. Hiring a lawyer right away can streamline the process and help resolve your case within this time.
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Take the First Step Forward With Ryan Law Group
Ryan Law Group comes alongside you and provides compassionate support during this difficult time. We handle the logistics and negotiations of your case so you can have the space to mourn your loss.
As a boutique law firm, you can be confident that you will receive exceptional service, attention, and representation during your case. Contact a San Francisco wrongful death lawyer for a free consultation.
Call or Text (310) 321-4800, or Complete a Free Case Evaluation Form
