Losing a loved one is never easy, but when that loss is because of someone else’s negligence, it can be devastating. If a loved one has died in the wake of preventable circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation. Filing a wrongful death claim can hold those responsible for your loss accountable. An experienced Rialto wrongful death lawyer can explain the process. Reach out to Gonzales Law Offices for free assistance.
At Gonzales Law Offices, we understand that probably the last thing on your mind is meeting with a lawyer to discuss the loss of your family member. We know that no amount of money can bring them back. However, the purpose of a wrongful death claim is to provide financial stability for your family after an unexpected loss. It can help with the costs of a funeral, loss of income left by their absence, and more.
Our team can manage your legal claim while you and your family are grieving. Our knowledge and experience have helped us build trust not just with our clients, but with the community. From Foothill Boulevard to I-210, we put the needs of our clients first, so they have the confidence and support necessary to face the legal road ahead.
Wrongful Death Claims
A wrongful death occurs when someone else’s negligence or carelessness, or their failure to act, causes a preventable death. If you decide to pursue a wrongful death claim, it is typically heard at the appropriate courthouse within the Superior Court of California, County of San Bernardino justice system. With a civil case, surviving family members can hold the responsible parties accountable for their loss and pursue full financial compensation for their damages.
It is important to act quickly if you decide to file a wrongful death claim. The statute of limitations is two years from the incident. A knowledgeable attorney can help make sure your claim is filed timely and help protect your rights. Plus, they can preserve important evidence and build a compelling wrongful death claim on your behalf. There are many reasons to consider working with a skilled attorney.
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Wrongful deaths can occur for several reasons. These unfortunate incidents catch families off guard and leave them searching for answers. Some of the more common reasons that wrongful deaths happen include:
In any wrongful death claim, it is important to start with the facts. Identifying the series of events that led to the death, any witnesses, and tracking down any documentation of concerns or instances related to the scene or the circumstances. The situation around the wrongful death will determine what is needed. For example, if there is a history of accidents at a certain intersection for a recurring reason but the city failed to act, there may be grounds for a claim.
Once evidence has been obtained, your attorney can file a formal complaint. During the discovery phase of your case, both sides exchange evidence. Most wrongful death cases resolve using alternative dispute resolution methods. However, if necessary, your attorney can proceed to trial before a judge or jury if your family is not fully compensated for the death of your loved one through initial negotiations. Contact an attorney to discuss the value of your case.
Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer
The Pew Charitable Trusts organization reports that across the U.S., our state court judges manage about 66 million matters every year, including a wide variety of legal issues. For civil court cases, state courts see a total of 13,120,000 cases. Closer to home, California recorded 40,201 wrongful death claims just during 2022 to 2023.
With courts seeing so many active cases involving wrongful deaths, it’s important that yours is a priority for your family. One way to make sure this is the case is by hiring an experienced attorney. With an attorney handling your case, you can confirm you’re not just a number. When you hire a wrongful death lawyer, they work diligently to compensate your family for the economic and non-economic losses you have experienced.
Meet Attorney Mark Gonzales, Esq.
Lead Counsel, Gonzales Law Offices
Since 2007, Mark has represented injured clients across Southern California in car, motorcycle, and truck accidents, traumatic brain injuries, wrongful death, and premises liability. His time in insurance defense gives him inside perspective he uses to help clients take on powerful carriers. He has recovered over a million dollars for clients in difficult cases.
Bar: State Bar of California
Affiliations: CAALA, LACBA
Education: University of La Verne College of Law
Offices: Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, Ontario
Free Consultation No Fees Unless We Win Se Habla Español
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
Under California law, only specific individuals can file a wrongful death claim. Only one claim is permitted per death. Eligible parties include immediate family, like surviving spouses, domestic partners, children, or grandchildren. It can also include financial dependents, such as parents, siblings, stepchildren, legal guardians, or someone who believed in good faith that they were legally married. To further discuss your eligibility, contact a knowledgeable California attorney.
What Does it Cost to Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer?
The cost to hire a wrongful death lawyer is dependent on several factors that are specific to your case. The experience of the lawyer, the complexity of the case, and even whether it is litigated in court will all play a role in the final costs. To understand what fees you could incur, speak with your lawyer during your initial consultation.
Do All Potential Heirs Have to Join One Claim?
California does have a rule that requires all eligible beneficiaries and potential heroes to join a single wrongful death claim. Known as the one action rule, the law bans separate or multiple claims for the same person’s death. By moving everything into a single, joint claim, it protects everyone from duplicate claims and conflicting court rulings. Work with an attorney who can make sure your rights are fully protected and represented in a single action.
Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Wrongful Death Case in California?
You are not required to hire a lawyer for a wrongful death case in Rialto, California. However, most people find that an attorney can provide substantial help with their claim. They can gather relevant evidence depending on the evidence necessary to provide your case. People working alone tend to make costly mistakes and may not recover anything at all. Instead, consider hiring a skilled lawyer who can optimize your recovery.
Rialto Wrongful Death Lawyer
Whether your family member was involved in a fatal accident near Flores Park or close to Downtown Rialto, connect with Gonzales Law Offices right away. We provide reliable legal and emotional support after an unexpected loss.
Se habla español. We do not collect any fees until we are successful with your wrongful death claim. Contact us for your free consultation with an experienced Rialto wrongful death lawyer.
Rialto Wrongful Death Lawyer Reviews
★★★★★
“On April 9th 2024, I was in a very severe accident caused by a reckless driver. I had contacted Gonzalez law firm in which Mrs. Marilyn explain the procedures, and helped me through process. They were very responsive and answered any questions that arose. They were very attentive and if I needed any additional help, they were willing to get me the necessary help I needed. They were very helpful and would highly recommend this law firm.” – Carmen Villalobos
★★★★★
“I am extremely pleased with Gonzalez law. Mr. Mark Gonzalez himself is a very well rounded and educated lawyer in his field. He was communicative, concise, and efficient with handling my personal injury case. I am grateful to have him as my lawyer. His staff was informative and helpful with getting through my process and the he decision to choose this firm was the best decision I could have made. Thank you Mr. Gonzalez and your team! Continue to serve the community well. It is very much appreciated!” – Roza Keflom
★★★★★
“Great Experience. Once I entered you can feel they care. They talk with Experience and knowledge. Thankful to be represented by this law firm! Will recommend.” – Edward SerranoWB
I could not be more happy with the help Mark Gonzales provided. He was there for me every step of the way. He explained each step in a way that was easy for me to understand. He was available to me when ever I had a concern. His staff made me feel like I was family. I highly recommend Mark to anyone who needs legal help!
Robert R.
Mark helped me recover all my expenses due to my car accident. The insurance company tried to slow the process and doubted that I was even injured. Mark fought for me and gave me peace of mind. I felt like I had an army on my side since his staff worked tirelessly for me. They got the insurance company off my back and helped me get back on my feet faster than I expected.
April F.
Mark did a fantastic job for me when I slipped in a restaurant. I owner had the nerve to claim it was my heels, when clearly the floor was damaged and caused me to fall. He tried to make himself look like the victim of a scam. Mark put an end to that real fast. He took control of everything for me. He helped me get my medical costs paid as well as compensation for the lost time at work.
Dottie F.
The Law Office of Mark Gonzales was a smooth experience people were great and professional !! I would recommend them to anyone and if I ever need an injury attorney again I will definitely come back. THANK YOU.
Vanessa M.
The people working here are very nice and helped make a bad experience better. They made the process go smoothly and were always willing to help and answer my questions. The attorney was very personable and willing to help. The office makes sure you are comfortable and that you understand the process. I highly recommend them.
Elizabeth R.
I would like to thank the attorney Mark Gonzalez and his staff for the prompt results representing my family with our case, I would highly recommend his office, thank you in advance.
Jose G.
I want to highly recommend the lawyer Mark Gonzalez due to his great work. He took my case and won it even though another lawyer had said it was a lost case. Very friendly environment especially with the secretary at the front desk. Thank you!
Marelena R.
Mr. Gonzales did an amazing job in solving my case. I was feeling helpless and all hope lost, but him and his staff got me through it. I wouldn’t consider any other attorney than Mr. Gonzales himself. 100% recommended!
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