Wrongful Death Attorney in Irvine

Wrongful Death Attorney in Irvine

Experiencing an unexpected death in the family, primarily due to an avoidable accident, can be a heartbreaking experience. For most, the loss of a loved one has terrible financial consequences, especially if they were the family’s breadwinner. Under Irvine law, the bereaved are allowed to seek compensation for damages, including financial support loss through a wrongful death claim.

What is a Wrongful Death Claim?

Wrongful death claims are civil actions made by family and friends of an individual who has passed away due to the negligence or misconduct of another person. These claims provide compensation for relatives who depended on the deceased for both financial and emotional support. Relatives or real parties of interest to the deceased can hire a representative to file the suit. The real parties of interest include;

• Immediate family members
• Life partners and financial dependents
• Putative spouses
• Parents of a dead fetus

Elements of a Wrongful Death Case

There are four main elements in a wrongful death claim, as defined by the law, which the plaintiff must prove to win the case. A wrongful death attorney in Irvine will help you prove each of them. They include:

Negligence

It is the plaintiff’s responsibility to prove that the defendant’s negligence wholly or partly caused the death of their loved one.

Breach of Duty

The plaintiff should prove that the defendant owed a duty to the deceased victim. For example, doctors or health providers should maintain their patient’s health: misdiagnosing a patient is a breach of contract.

Causation

The plaintiff should prove that the defendant’s breach of duty was the cause of the deceased passing.

Damages

The death of the deceased must have generated quantifiable damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, or income loss.

Proving the above points in court requires the plaintiff or his wrongful death lawyer in Irvine to produce substantial evidence and expert witness testimony.

Why You Should Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer

There are several reasons you should hire a wrongful death lawyer in Irvine to help with your claim. They include;

A Thorough Understanding of the Legal Process

An experienced attorney has an in-depth knowledge of wrongful death law, and they know how to build a strong case on your behalf. 

Saves You Time and Money

Legal processes are often complicated, requiring filling of numerous documents on strict deadlines. Trying to navigate the process alone can be time-consuming because you lack the knowledge and experience.

Claim Valuation

An attorney will carry out a detailed evaluation of your situation and the impact of your loved one’s death on you and your family. This evaluation allows for proper compensation from the defendant.

Support

A wrongful death attorney in Irvine can offer your family support as you grieve the loss of a loved one. Since your attorney doesn’t have a personal connection to your case, they are in a better position to build a strong case.