Wrongful Death: Pursuing Justice for Lives Taken Too Soon

When Negligence Ends a Life, the Law Offers a Path to Truth and Accountability

There is no loss more profound than the unexpected death of a loved one. When that loss is caused by someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or abuse of power, the grief is compounded by outrage, confusion, and the need for justice. In these heartbreaking situations, legal action can be a vital tool — not just for compensation, but for truth, accountability, and healing.

At The Christian Contreras Firm, we help families confront the aftermath of wrongful death. With deep compassion and unwavering resolve, we fight for those left behind when a life is unjustly taken.

What Is a Wrongful Death?

In California, a wrongful death occurs when a person is killed as a result of another party’s negligence, misconduct, or unlawful actions. Unlike criminal prosecutions — which focus on punishment — wrongful death lawsuits are civil claims seeking financial compensation and acknowledgment of wrongdoing.

Wrongful death can stem from many types of incidents, including:

• Police shootings and use of excessive force
• Medical malpractice and surgical errors
• Fatal car, truck, or motorcycle accidents
• Construction site accidents or workplace deaths
• Defective products or pharmaceuticals
• Dangerous property conditions (premises liability)

These claims not only provide financial relief — they affirm the value of the life lost and shine a light on systemic failures that demand correction.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

Under California law, the following individuals may bring a wrongful death lawsuit:

• The decedent’s spouse or domestic partner
• Children or stepchildren
• Parents, if they were financially dependent
• Other heirs or legal beneficiaries in the absence of closer relations

A personal representative of the estate may also file a survival action, which seeks damages the deceased could have recovered had they survived.

Time is limited. The statute of limitations for most wrongful death claims in California is two years from the date of death — though exceptions exist in cases involving government entities or delayed discovery.

What Damages Can Be Recovered?

A wrongful death lawsuit aims to restore — as much as possible — what the family has lost. While no amount of money can replace a loved one, compensation may ease the financial burdens that often follow a sudden death.

Recoverable damages may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support the decedent would have provided
• Loss of household services
• Loss of companionship, love, guidance, and care
• Emotional suffering and mental anguish (in limited contexts)

In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish egregious conduct — especially in cases involving police brutality, corporate misconduct, or intentional harm.

Police Involvement in Wrongful Death Cases

When wrongful death results from law enforcement actions — such as an unjustified shooting, chokehold, or in-custody neglect — the stakes are even higher. These cases intersect with civil rights law and demand meticulous investigation.

Our firm has experience holding police departments accountable when excessive force or unconstitutional practices lead to death. We understand the procedural hurdles and political pressures involved, and we do not shy away from taking on powerful institutions.

How The Christian Contreras Firm Supports Grieving Families

Wrongful death cases require not only legal skill, but deep empathy and cultural understanding. At The Christian Contreras Firm, we prioritize both.

Our firm provides:

• Thorough Investigations: We work with forensic experts, economists, and investigators to uncover the full picture and value of the life lost.
• Family-Centered Advocacy: We listen closely to your story, honor your grief, and keep you involved at every step.
• Systemic Accountability: Whether the harm came from an individual or an institution, we fight for accountability that protects others from future tragedy.
• Trial-Ready Representation: If settlement is not possible, we are prepared to litigate with strength and clarity before a jury.

You have a right to know what happened. You have a right to demand answers. And you have a right to justice.

Honor Their Memory by Pursuing the Truth

Injustice should never be buried with the person who suffered it. If your loved one died due to another’s negligence or misconduct, The Christian Contreras Firm is here to help you fight back — with purpose, integrity, and resilience.

Reach out today for a compassionate and confidential consultation. Your loved one’s story deserves to be told. Their life deserves to be honored. Their death deserves justice.