Wrongful death: we handle the case so your family can grieve.
A wrongful death claim can cover the support, care and companionship your family lost. Free case review, no fee unless we win, and a real person answers 24/7.
Get your free case evaluation
Three fields. We call or text you back within the hour.
Do these four things now
The first few days decide a lot of cases. In order:
In fatal hit-and-run investigations, license plate cameras and business video are often key. That video can be deleted within days.
What you can get paid for
A wrongful death claim covers what your family lost.
Find out what your case is worthWrongful death results
Deadlines vary. Act early.
How long you have depends on the type of case and who is responsible. Some claims, such as those against a government agency, have deadlines measured in months, not years. Call early, and we find the deadline that applies to you.
Wrongful death questions we get every day
Straight answers. No fine print.
Who can bring a wrongful death claim?
How soon do we need to act?
How much do you charge?
Wrongful death cases in nine states
Staffed offices in Irvine, Chicago and Las Vegas, and satellite offices by appointment. We also come to you.
More about wrongful death
Read the full guide
Losing a loved one is devastating, and when their death results from someone else’s negligence or intentional actions, the pain is even greater. TORKLAW is here to provide compassionate legal guidance, helping you navigate the complexities of the legal system and seek justice for your loss with the help of an experienced wrongful death attorney.
WHEN SHOULD YOU CONSULT A WRONGFUL DEATH ATTORNEY?
If you suspect your loved one’s death was caused by negligence or misconduct, it is crucial to speak with a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. These claims generally arise from:
1. Intentional Acts Leading to Death
If someone deliberately caused harm—such as in an assault or other violent act—the responsible party can be held accountable in both criminal and civil courts. Even if they are acquitted in a criminal case, you can still seek justice through a wrongful death lawsuit.
A party can be acquitted criminally but still found liable civilly, with the O.J. Simpson case being a notable example.
2. Deaths Caused by Negligence
Not all wrongful deaths are intentional. Negligence-based wrongful death claims involve careless actions that result in fatal consequences. Common examples include:
-
-
Car accidents caused by reckless or impaired driving
-
Medical malpractice, such as surgical errors or misdiagnoses
-
Unsafe premises, leading to fatal slip and falls or other accidents
-
Defective products that cause fatal injuries
-
WHO CAN FILE A WRONGFUL DEATH LAWSUIT?
The right to file a wrongful death claim varies by state, but typically, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate files the lawsuit on behalf of beneficiaries, including:
- Spouses and domestic partners
- Children and stepchildren
- Parents or legal guardians
- Other dependents or close relatives (varies by state)
If you’re unsure about eligibility, contact our wrongful death lawyers at TORKLAW for a free consultation.
WHAT COMPENSATION CAN BE RECOVERED IN A WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM?
A wrongful death lawsuit seeks financial compensation for the losses suffered by surviving family members, including:
-
Economic Damages:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of income
- Loss of inheritance and future financial support
-
Non-Economic Damages:
- Loss of companionship, love, and emotional support
- Loss of guidance and mentorship (especially for children)
- Pain and suffering endured by surviving family members
While grief itself isn't typically compensable, in some jurisdictions, punitive damages can be pursued to punish egregious behavior.
We recommend that you file for a wrongful death case as soon as possible because your case may be subject to a statute of limitations which limits your ability to file after a certain period (typically around two years).
SURVIVAL ACTIONS VS. WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIMS
A wrongful death claim compensates the survivors for their losses. A survival action, however, seeks damages for what the deceased endured before passing away. This can include:
- Pain and suffering experienced before death
- Medical expenses related to the injury
- Lost wages between the injury and death
Both actions can sometimes be combined, maximizing the compensation for your family and ensuring accountability for the responsible party.
FACING THE CHALLENGE OF A WRONGFUL DEATH CASE
These cases are emotionally and legally challenging. While compensation cannot replace your loved one, it can offer financial relief and a sense of justice. Trust is paramount; hence, ensure you collaborate with an attorney genuinely invested in your best interests.
If you believe a loved one's death resulted from another's negligence or intentional act, contact us at TORKLAW to seek expert advice from a wrongful death attorney. We commit to guiding you toward the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.
Contact us today at 888.845.9696 for a free and comprehensive consultation.
More about Wrongful Death
Not sure if you have a case? Call anyway. It's free to ask.
Someone answers 24/7. English and Spanish. No obligation.
New clients 888.845.9696Existing clients 888.222.8286
This is a paid advertisement for TORKLAW, not an offer or guarantee of results. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own merits. Some matters may be referred to partner firms as appropriate. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Tracy R. Horn, Esq. is responsible for this advertisement. Main Office: 18650 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 300, Irvine, CA 92612.