Santa Barbara Wrongful Death Attorneys

Fighting For Those Who Have Lost Loved Ones Due to Negligence in California

Losing a loved one is never an easy hardship to endure, but it can be all the more painful knowing that this loss was caused by another party’s negligent or reckless behavior. At Crane Flores, LLP in Santa Barbara, our wrongful death attorneys are committed to helping surviving family members seek the justice and recovery they deserve. Our team will provide the compassionate and personalized attention you need during this challenging time.

Helping You Obtain Justice for the Loss of Your Loved One

Call Crane Flores, LLP today at (805) 628-4967 to find out more about what our wrongful death attorney in Santa Barbara can do for you. We provide free case evaluations and work on a contingency fee basis.

What is the Statute of Limitations For a Wrongful Death Claim in California? 

If your loved one’s death was caused by negligence, you must not hesitate to file a lawsuit. In California, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is 2 years, beginning on the date of your loved one’s death. If you miss out on this deadline, your case will not be heard in court.

That said, there are some exceptions to this rule and situations in which the statute of limitations can be extended. For example, if your loved one’s death was the result of medical malpractice, you would have three years to file a lawsuit, starting on the date the malpractice occurred or within a year of finding out about the malpractice.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California

In California, certain surviving family members are eligible for recovering damages in a wrongful death lawsuit.

• The decedent’s spouse
• The decedent’s domestic partner
• The decedent’s children

If a decedent’s putative spouse, stepchildren, or parents can show they financially depended on the decedent, they can recover damages as well.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Claim?

In a wrongful death lawsuit, damages are divided for the personal losses they suffered due to the loss of their loved one. Some of the damages you can recover in a wrongful death lawsuit include:

• Burial and funeral expenses
• Hospital bills for the decedent’s final injury or illness
• Lost income and the loss of potential income the decedent would have made were it not for his or her untimely death
• Loss of love, attention, moral support, community, and guidance
• The loss of household services

Additional compensatory awards may include pain and suffering endured before death, loss of companionship, and punitive damages if the wrongful act was intentional or egregious. These complex calculations hinge on a multitude of factors, from the decedent's age to their potential future earnings. Importantly, our dedicated legal team meticulously evaluates each element to ascertain the maximum possible recovery on your family's behalf, diligently working to bring a measure of relief during this difficult time.

Why Choose Crane Flores, LLP?

Choosing Crane Flores, LLP means partnering with a firm with over 50 years of combined experience dedicated to supporting families during their most difficult times. Operating on a contingency fee basis, we believe in the accessibility of justice, ensuring you won't face any legal fees unless compensation is obtained on your behalf. Our strong community ties in Santa Barbara emphasize our commitment to offering legal guidance that respects our client's unique needs and circumstances.

Our client-focused approach makes all the difference. We recognize that every wrongful death case is unique and demands personalized strategies to achieve the best possible outcome. Our 24/7 availability ensures you'll always have access to compassionate and professional legal support whenever needed. By choosing Crane Flores, LLP, you affirm a partnership with steadfast advocates who prioritize your family's well-being and recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death 

How Long Does a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Take?

The duration of a wrongful death lawsuit varies depending on numerous factors, including the case's complexity, the number of parties involved, and the court's schedule. Typically, a wrongful death case can take several months to a few years to resolve. Key stages include the initial filing, discovery, negotiation, and potentially a trial if a settlement cannot be reached. At Crane Flores, LLP, we prioritize efficient case management and clear communication, keeping you informed of each step in the process. Our attorneys work diligently to expedite settlement discussions and are fully prepared to advocate through trial proceedings if necessary, ensuring your case receives the attention and dedication it deserves.

Why Do You Need a Wrongful Death Attorney?

Enlisting the support of a wrongful death attorney is crucial for navigating the complexities of legal claims after losing a loved one. An attorney can thoroughly investigate the facts, gather necessary evidence, meet legal deadlines, and offer compassionate support during difficult times. At Crane Flores, LLP, we bring over 50 years of combined experience in supporting families through the wrongful death claim process. By entrusting your case to our skilled attorneys, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects with diligence and care.

What Should I Bring to My First Meeting with a Wrongful Death Lawyer?

When meeting with a wrongful death lawyer for the first time, preparation is key. Comprehensive documentation will help your attorney understand the scope and specifics of your claim. Essential items include a copy of the death certificate, any medical records related to the incident, accident reports, and any correspondence with insurance companies. Additionally, documentation of financial impact, like proof of income and service estimates for expenses incurred due to the death, must be provided. At Crane Flores, LLP, our attorneys are adept at evaluating these details to formulate a legal strategy tailored to your unique situation, ensuring that every aspect of your claim is addressed precisely.

Contact Our Wrongful Death Attorney in Santa Barbara Today

If you lost a loved one due to negligence, contact the experienced wrongful death team at Crane Flores, LLP, for the exceptional guidance you need during this difficult time. Our Santa Barbara wrongful death attorneys have over five decades of combined legal experience and will use their insight, knowledge, and skills to fight for justice for you and your loved one. No amount of money can make things right after such a significant loss. Still, compensation can help reduce some of the financial burdens you will likely experience in the aftermath.

Call Crane Flores, LLP today at (805) 628-4967 to schedule a free consultation with our compassionate Santa Barbara wrongful death lawyer. You will not owe us any legal fees until we win your case.