When Negligence Becomes Deadly: Understanding Liability in Wrongful Death Cases Involving Public Agencies

Government agencies — from police departments to county jails and public hospitals — exist to protect and serve. But when they fail to uphold that duty, the consequences can be devastating.

In California, wrongful deaths caused by public agencies often result from neglect, abuse, or systemic failure. Families are left mourning loved ones while facing silence, delay, and denial from the very institutions responsible for the tragedy.

At the Law Offices of Christian Contreras, PLC, we fight for families across California who have lost loved ones due to government negligence. We demand not only compensation but also transparency and reform — because justice means more than money; it means accountability.

Understanding Wrongful Death Liability Against Public Entities

A wrongful death occurs when someone’s death is caused by another party’s negligence, recklessness, or misconduct. When the responsible party is a government agency — such as a police department, sheriff’s office, or public health facility — the case becomes more complex but equally vital.

Under the California Government Claims Act (Gov. Code § 810 et seq.), families can sue public entities for wrongful death when negligence, neglect, or violation of duty caused the loss.

Examples include:

• Jail deaths due to lack of medical care or supervision.
• Police shootings or excessive use of force.
• Deaths caused by dangerous road conditions or negligent maintenance.
• Failure to protect vulnerable individuals in government custody or care.

Every Californian — including those in custody — has a right to life and safety. When that right is violated, legal action is not just justified; it’s necessary.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim

Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60, the following parties typically have standing to file a wrongful death claim:

• Spouse or domestic partner
• Children or stepchildren
• Parents (if no spouse or children survive)
• Financial dependents, under certain circumstances

In addition, an estate representative may bring a survival action, which seeks damages the deceased could have recovered if they had lived.

How Government Negligence Leads to Wrongful Death

Public agencies can cause wrongful deaths through a variety of failures, including:

• Failure to provide medical treatment to inmates or detainees.
• Improper training or supervision of law enforcement officers.
• Negligent maintenance of public property leading to fatal accidents.
• Ignoring known safety hazards or mental health crises.
• Reckless operation of government vehicles during pursuits or transport.

In each case, the common denominator is negligence — a failure to act with the care and responsibility the law requires.

Filing a Government Claim: The First Step Toward Justice

Unlike typical wrongful death cases, claims involving public entities have strict procedural rules.

Before filing a lawsuit, families must submit a Government Claim within six months of the death. This document must outline:

1. The facts of the incident.
2. The parties involved.
3. The nature and amount of damages sought.

If the agency denies or ignores the claim, families can proceed with a wrongful death lawsuit in court. Missing this deadline can permanently bar recovery — which is why contacting an attorney immediately is critical.

Proving Negligence and Liability

To succeed in a wrongful death case against a public entity, the plaintiff must prove:

1. The agency or its employees owed a duty of care to the deceased.
2. That duty was breached through negligence or misconduct.
3. The breach directly caused the death.
4. The family suffered financial or emotional losses as a result.

These cases require detailed investigation, expert analysis, and often the ability to challenge powerful institutions — something Christian Contreras and his firm are known for.

Christian Contreras: Fighting for Families, Demanding Accountability

Christian Contreras has built a strong reputation as one of California’s most effective civil rights and wrongful death attorneys, known for holding government agencies accountable when neglect or abuse leads to tragedy.

His results include:

• $8,500,000 settlement in a jail death case involving systemic neglect.
• $3,300,000 jury verdict in another in-custody death (zero offer before trial).
• $6,000,000 jury verdict in a police shooting case exposing serious misconduct.

Recognized as a Top Boutique Law Firm in California (Daily Journal, 2024) and a member of ABOTA, Christian and his team have become trusted advocates for families seeking truth and reform.

What Damages Families Can Recover

Families in wrongful death cases involving government negligence may be entitled to recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial costs.
• Loss of companionship, love, and guidance.
• Loss of financial support and future income.
• Emotional distress and mental suffering.
• Punitive damages, in cases of reckless or intentional misconduct.

Beyond monetary relief, these cases bring something even more valuable — acknowledgment, truth, and the potential for systemic change.

Why These Lawsuits Matter for Public Safety

Wrongful death lawsuits against government agencies don’t just help families; they protect communities. Each successful case brings to light failures in public institutions and forces reform.

These cases have led to:

• Improved medical care and mental health services in jails.
• Enhanced training and accountability for law enforcement.
• Safer roadway and public facility standards.
• Policy reforms that prevent future tragedies.

By standing up for justice, families help make California safer for everyone.

The Law Offices of Christian Contreras, PLC: A Voice for the Voiceless

At the Law Offices of Christian Contreras, PLC, every wrongful death case is treated as more than a lawsuit — it’s a fight for truth and change. We combine compassion with courtroom strength, ensuring that families have an ally who will not rest until justice is served.

Our firm investigates every angle, challenges every cover-up, and demands accountability from those who fail in their duty to protect. Because behind every case is a life that mattered — and a family that deserves answers.

Conclusion: Turning Loss Into Legacy

A wrongful death caused by government negligence is not just a private loss — it’s a public failure that demands accountability. Through courage and persistence, families can force the truth into the light and drive reform that saves lives.

At the Law Offices of Christian Contreras, PLC, we help families across California uncover what really happened, hold powerful agencies accountable, and turn tragedy into justice.

If your loved one’s death was caused by government neglect or misconduct, contact us today for a confidential consultation. We’ll stand by you — and fight to ensure your loved one’s story leads to change.

📞 Call now or visit www.ChristianContrerasLaw.com — because justice for your family can protect countless others.