Wrongful death is the legal term used to describe a situation in which a victim is killed as the result of another's negligence, misconduct, or wrongful act. In the state of California, the procedures for filing a wrongful death claim – a type of civil lawsuit – are similar to those in filing a personal injury claim. Essentially, wrongful death claims will focus on the following legal elements:

• The negligence or wrongful act of the at-fault party;
• The death of a victim; and
• The damages incurred by decedents and their family members

Although all wrongful death cases are unique and deeply personal, they will enable a decedent's loved ones to recover financial compensation for any damages they incurred. At Scott Mitchell Law Offices, our team of Modesto wrongful death lawyers have years of experience helping families navigate tough times and difficult legal proceedings. We are prepared to provide our support and representation to families seeking to file wrongful death claims. Under California's wrongful death laws, family members who may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim include:

• Surviving spouses
• Surviving domestic partners
• Children
• Parents

Our legal team can review your case to determine if you may be eligible to pursue a claim. In the event that the above-mentioned parties do not exist, a personal representative may file a wrongful death claim on behalf of a decedent's estate. Other relatives or individuals who were dependent on the decedent may also have a right to recover compensation.

Whatever the case may be, our firm knows that losing a loved one is never an easy experience. This is why we devote 100% or our efforts and support to helping local families throughout the Central Valley navigate these emotionally turbulent times. In addition to providing personal support, we pool our collective experience and fight aggressively to obtain justice and fair compensation for our clients.

If you would like to learn more about filing a wrongful death claim in Modesto, Stockton, Turlock or any of the surrounding communities, allow a member of our legal team to review your case. Call (209) 418-7386 for a free consultation.