Glendale Wrongful Death Attorney

Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a family can face, especially when that loss was caused by someone else’s negligence. In Glendale, families dealing with a sudden and preventable death are often left with grief, unanswered questions, and questions about what comes next. While nothing can undo what has happened, pursuing accountability can be an important step toward justice.

At KJT Law Group, our Glendale personal injury lawyers help families after a wrongful death. We handle every aspect of the legal process and fight to hold negligent parties accountable. We understand that no two cases, and no two families, are the same. Your Glendale wrongful death attorney will build a personalized legal strategy for you. Our team is prepared to take on insurance companies, build a strong case, and pursue the full compensation your family deserves. If you are considering your legal options, call KJT Law Group for a free consultation.

Why Glendale Families Choose KJT Law Group

KJT Law Group is not a high-volume law firm that pushes cases through a system. We limit our caseload so that every family receives the attention, strategy, and support their case deserves. When you work with our team, you work directly with your attorney, who remains involved from start to finish. Throughout the process, our team remains accessible and responsive, providing clear communication, so you are never left wondering where your case stands.

Our approach is built on preparation and accountability. Unlike firms that look for quick settlements, we prepare every wrongful death case as if it will go to trial. This allows us to push back against low offers and pursue the full value of your claim, whether through negotiation or in court. Insurance companies recognize when a firm is willing and able to try a case, and that matters.

KJT Law Group is committed to providing meaningful, personalized legal support during one of the most difficult times in your life.

What Is Considered Wrongful Death in California?

Under CCP § 377.60, a wrongful death claim arises when a person dies as a result of another party’s negligence or misconduct. These cases are civil actions, meaning they are separate from any criminal charges that may or may not be filed.

While this definition may sound straightforward, proving wrongful death requires a detailed investigation and strong supporting evidence. Each case is unique, and the specific facts will determine how negligence is established.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Glendale

Wrongful death can occur in many different situations, often when someone fails to act with the level of care the law requires. In Glendale and throughout Los Angeles County, some of the most common causes include:

• Car accidents
• Truck accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• Bicycle accidents
• Workplace accidents
• Medical malpractice
• Defective products
• Dangerous property conditions (premises liability)

Each of these scenarios presents different legal challenges. Identifying the exact cause and the parties responsible are critical steps in building a strong case.

Who Is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim?

California law limits who can file a wrongful death claim. Generally, the right to file belongs to those who were closest to the deceased.

This typically includes:

• A surviving spouse or domestic partner
• The deceased person’s children
• Other dependents, in certain circumstances
• A personal representative of the estate

If there is no surviving spouse or child, financially dependent individuals may have a right to seek benefits through a wrongful death claim. Determining who is eligible can be a complex process, especially in blended families or situations involving multiple potential claimants.

What Can Families Recover in a Wrongful Death Case?

A wrongful death claim allows families to recover compensation for their financial hardships and personal losses they have experienced. While no amount of compensation can replace your loved one, it can help ease the burdens left behind.

The Financial Losses Your Family Has Had to Carry

Economic damages are the tangible financial losses your family has incurred, which typically include such things as:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of the income your loved one would have earned
• Loss of benefits, such as health insurance or retirement contributions

Determining a fair settlement value for these losses often requires financial analysis and expert input to ensure nothing is overlooked.

The Personal Losses That Can’t Be Measured in Dollars

Some of the most significant losses are not financial. California law also recognizes the emotional and relational impact of losing a loved one, including:

• Loss of companionship
• Emotional pain and suffering
• Loss of guidance, care, and support

These non-economic damages reflect the profound ways your loved one’s absence affects your daily life and future.

How a Glendale Wrongful Death Attorney Proves Negligence

Building a wrongful death case requires more than identifying that something went wrong. It requires proving exactly how and why it happened, and who is responsible.

To bring a successful wrongful death claim in California, four key elements must be established:

• Duty of care: The responsible party had a legal obligation to act with reasonable care (for example, a driver must follow traffic laws).
• Breach of duty: That party failed to meet their obligation through negligence or wrongful conduct (for example, texting while driving).
• Causation: This failure directly caused your loved one’s death (for example, they ran a red light while not paying attention).
• Damages: The death resulted in measurable losses for surviving family members.

Our wrongful death attorney in Glendale will begin by conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the death. This investigation may involve:

• Obtaining police and accident reports
• Examining accident scene photographs, video footage, and digital evidence
• Reviewing your medical records with your doctors
• Interviewing witnesses for their statements
• Consulting with experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists

From there, our legal team works to identify all potentially liable parties. In some cases, responsibility may extend beyond one individual to include companies, property owners, or manufacturers.

Once liability is established, your attorney will determine the value of your claim and begin negotiations with the responsible party’s insurance company. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we will proceed to trial.

What Is the Deadline to File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

Generally, the California statute of limitations, CCP § 335.1, gives families two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit with the Los Angeles County courts.

However, certain exceptions could shorten the window to file. Plus, waiting too long could affect the evidence. The longer you wait to start your case, the more likely that witnesses could forget or not be found, video could be erased, records and documents could be destroyed, and physical evidence could disappear.

Contacting KJT Law Group as soon as you can allows your family’s attorney to preserve evidence now and build a stronger case.

What to Do After Losing a Loved One Due to Negligence

The period following a sudden loss is overwhelming, and it can be difficult to know what exactly to do. While every situation is different, there are a few actions that can help protect your family and your potential claim.

We advise families to take these actions:

• Seek support from family, friends, or professional counselors
• Keep records of expenses and documents related to your loved one’s passing
• Preserve any evidence connected to the incident, if possible
• Avoid speaking with insurance companies before contacting us
• Call our law firm early to understand your rights and options

Taking these steps now will help you pursue a claim later.

Speak With KJT Law Group About Your Family’s Wrongful Death Case Today

If your family has lost a loved one due to negligence, you do not have to face the legal process alone. KJT Law Group is here to provide the guidance, support, and representation you need during this difficult time.

We offer free consultations and will take the time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and explain your options. When you’re ready, contact our office to speak with a Glendale wrongful death attorney.

Glendale, California, Wrongful Death Claim FAQs