Wrongful Death
Compassionate Santa Rosa Wrongful Death Attorney With 20+ Years’ Experience
Representing Families in Crisis in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Windsor, Healdsburg , and Sonoma California
If you lost a loved one in an accident or under any other circumstances in which you believe someone else may have been to blame, it is important that you speak with a Santa Rosa wrongful death attorney. You and your family may be entitled to significant compensation. While no amount of money can truly compensate you for what you have lost, asserting your legal rights is a critical step in the slow and difficult process of moving on.
Decades of Experience and Millions Recovered for Victims and Their Families
Albert Phillips is an experienced accident lawyer who has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for victims and their families. He is ranked among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers Association, and he has received the highest-possible ratings from his clients and his peers in the Northern California legal community. Families trust Albert in times of crisis, and other lawyers call on Albert for help when their clients’ financial futures are on the line.
While these cases share certain similarities with personal injury claims (for example, most wrongful death claims result in financial settlements with the insurance companies), there are some unique issues that require the knowledge and insights of an personal injury attorney with specific experience in these matters. Albert has represented numerous families grieving the loss of loved ones, and he can help make sure you and your family recover just compensation.
“Being in a lawsuit is truly no fun, most aren’t familiar with terms used, the process, and realistic expectations of results. Mr. Henderson, upon first meeting him was very thorough and set the expectations as to what would become of my [case]… I have no doubt [that my settlement] was more to do with whom I chose as my representation. I would advise anyone looking for a candid, detail-oriented, and trustworthy [attorney] to look no further than Albert Law Firm.”
Wrongful Death Lawyer in Santa Rosa
At Albert Law Firm, we represent family members, entire families, and personal representatives in cases arising out of:
- Car Accidents
- Pedestrian Accidents
- Boating Accidents
- Drowning Accidents
- Falls and Premises-Related Accidents
- Construction Site Accidents
- Medical Malpractice
- Defective Product Accidents
- Other Fatal Accidents
California Wrongful Death FAQs
Q: What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in California?
In most cases, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in California is two years from the date of death. However, there are laws that shorten the time window for filing a claim in certain circumstances. For example, in cases of medical malpractice, the statute of limitations can be shortened to one year from the date of death, and claims against the government (i.e., for fatal collisions involving government vehicles) generally must be filed within six months of the fatal accident.
Q: Which family members are eligible to file claims in California?
Under California law, the family members who are eligible to seek compensation for a loved one’s wrongful death include:
- Spouses and domestic partners
- Children
- Stepchildren, parents, and other family members who qualify as “dependents”
- If the victim died without a surviving spouse or children, his or her heirs at law
The victim’s personal representative is also empowered to assert legal action on behalf of the family members who are eligible for compensation.
Q: How much does it cost to hire an attorney for a wrongful death claim?
With most law firms, including Albert Law Firm, the amount it costs to hire an attorney for your claim depends on the amount of your financial recovery. This is because most firms handle these cases on a “contingency fee” basis. With contingency fees, you do not pay anything upfront. If your case is successful, your Santa Rosa wrongful death attorney retains a percentage of the amount recovered. If you do not recover anything (which is unusual when an experienced attorney has thoroughly vetted your case and chosen to represent you), you do not pay any legal fees.
Q: How do I know what is a fair settlement offer in my case?
When we take your case, we will conduct an analysis to determine not only how much you have already lost as a result of your loved one’s death, but how much you will lose in the future as well (i.e., loss of financial support). If we receive a settlement offer, we will help you understand (i) exactly how much you would take home, and (ii) what your chances are of securing a higher settlement or verdict. That way, you can make an informed decision about whether to accept a settlement or take your case to trial.
Speak with Santa Rosa’s Wrongful Death Lawyer Albert Phillips
If you would like more information about your rights with regard to filing a wrongful death claim in Northern California, contact Albert Law Firm in Santa Rosa, CA. To speak with attorney Albert Phillips personally about your case, please call (609) 669-0030 or request a free case evaluation online today with an experienced Santa Rosa Wrongful death lawyer.