Best Wrongful Death Attorney in Santa Monica (2024)
Losing a loved one due to someone else's negligence is a devastating experience that can leave families grappling with emotional trauma and financial hardship. In Santa Monica, wrongful death attorneys specialize in helping bereaved families seek justice and compensation for their loss. These legal professionals navigate complex laws and procedures to hold responsible parties accountable.
Choosing the right wrongful death attorney in Santa Monica is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome in your case. The best wrongful death attorneys in Santa Monica combine extensive legal knowledge, compassionate client care, and a proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts. This article explores the top legal professionals in this field, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision during a difficult time.
1) Robert A. Kahn & Associates
Robert A. Kahn & Associates is a prominent law firm in Santa Monica specializing in wrongful death claims. With over 40 years of legal experience, Robert Kahn has established a reputation for aggressive representation of clients throughout California.
The firm focuses on personal injury, wrongful death, and medical malpractice cases. They have a track record of securing substantial compensation for victims and their families from Santa Monica to Woodland Hills.
Robert Kahn Law offers free initial consultations to potential clients. This allows families to discuss their case and understand their legal options without financial pressure.
The firm's commitment to dedicating resources and effort to each case has resulted in millions of dollars won for their clients. Their expertise extends to legal malpractice claims as well.
Robert A. Kahn is admitted to practice in California state courts and federal district courts. His extensive experience and specialized knowledge in wrongful death cases make him a sought-after attorney in Santa Monica.
2) The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus
The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus is a respected personal injury law firm in Santa Monica, California. They specialize in representing accident victims and handle a variety of injury and wrongful death cases.
The firm's legal team has over 36 years of experience in personal injury law. They focus on cases involving car accidents, dangerous products, pedestrian accidents, slip and falls, and nursing home abuse.
Attorney Gerald Marcus has been recognized for his expertise in the field. He was named one of the Top 100 Super Lawyers in Southern California by Super Lawyers, a prestigious legal rating service.
The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus emphasizes the importance of informing clients about their rights and options. They strive to provide families with the support needed to move forward after a tragedy.
The firm offers immediate assistance to those seeking legal help. They can be contacted at 818-784-8544 for a consultation on personal injury or wrongful death cases.
3) Baum Hedlund Aristei & Goldman
Baum Hedlund Aristei & Goldman recently changed its name to Wisner Baum in January 2023. The firm has nearly 40 years of experience championing wrongful death and personal injury claims for clients.
Located at 11111 Santa Monica Blvd Suite 1750 in Los Angeles, California, Wisner Baum continues to provide legal counsel to clients across the state and country. The firm's attorneys have received recognition from prestigious organizations such as Best Lawyers in America® and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
Michael L. Baum, a senior partner with almost four decades of experience, served as managing partner from 1993 to 2022. In January 2023, he passed leadership to R. Brent Wisner.
Wisner Baum handles various practice areas, including wrongful death cases. The firm has a track record of success, having won billions in settlements and verdicts for their clients.
Their attorneys are known for their advocacy campaigns and commitment to providing honorable legal support. With offices in Los Angeles, Wisner Baum serves clients in Santa Monica and beyond.
4) Panish Shea & Boyle LLP
Panish Shea & Boyle LLP is a renowned personal injury law firm based in Los Angeles. The firm has established a strong reputation for handling complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases.
Founded by experienced attorneys, including Adam Shea and Kevin Boyle, the firm specializes in various areas of personal injury law. Their expertise extends to product defects, negligence, and automotive accidents.
The firm's attorneys have received recognition for their excellence from legal organizations and publications nationwide. U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers have ranked Panish Shea & Boyle LLP among top law firms.
With offices located at 11111 Santa Monica Blvd in Los Angeles, the firm serves clients across Southern California. Their reach extends to counties including Kern, Orange, Riverside, and San Diego.
Panish Shea & Boyle LLP has a track record of securing significant settlements and verdicts for their clients. The firm's website claims they have won over $10 billion in compensation for injury victims.
Clients seeking representation for wrongful death cases in Santa Monica may find Panish Shea & Boyle LLP's experience and resources valuable. The firm offers free consultations to discuss potential legal matters.
5) The Simon Law Group
The Simon Law Group is a prominent personal injury law firm serving Santa Monica and surrounding areas in California. They handle various types of cases, including wrongful death claims.
The firm's death care lawyers are experienced in managing wrongful death cases. They strive to obtain the highest possible compensation for their clients who have lost loved ones due to others' negligence.
The Simon Law Group recognizes that no amount of money can truly make up for the loss of a family member. Nevertheless, they work diligently to pursue justice and financial recovery on behalf of grieving families.
As a family-run firm, The Simon Law Group brings a personal touch to their legal representation. They offer free consultations to potential clients, allowing them to discuss their cases without financial obligation.
The firm's attorneys have gained recognition for their work in personal injury law. They handle cases involving motor vehicle accidents, workplace incidents, and other situations resulting in wrongful death.
6) Carpenter, Zuckerman & Rowley
Carpenter, Zuckerman & Rowley is a prominent law firm with offices across California and in Las Vegas. The firm specializes in personal injury cases, including wrongful death claims.
Their team of experienced attorneys handles a wide range of cases, from car accidents to catastrophic injuries. They have a particular focus on complex matters involving brain damage, paralysis, and wrongful death.
Steve Spencer, a partner at the firm, brings extensive trial experience to the table. He has conducted over 100 jury trials and has significant expertise in wrongful death and serious injury cases.
The firm's attorneys are known for their skilled trial advocacy and dedication to securing justice for their clients. They work diligently to navigate the complexities of the legal system on behalf of grieving families.
Carpenter, Zuckerman & Rowley maintains offices in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, and Bakersfield. This widespread presence allows them to serve clients throughout California effectively.
7) McNicholas & McNicholas LLP
McNicholas & McNicholas LLP is a respected law firm based in Los Angeles, California. They specialize in personal injury and employment law cases, including wrongful death claims.
The firm has a team of experienced attorneys who are dedicated to fighting for justice on behalf of their clients. They understand the unique challenges involved in wrongful death cases and work diligently to support families during difficult times.
McNicholas & McNicholas LLP has successfully represented numerous clients seeking compensation for their losses. Their attorneys are known for their thorough approach and commitment to achieving favorable outcomes.
The firm's office is located at 217 N Main St, 2nd Floor, Santa Ana, CA 92701. They offer 24-hour phone availability, ensuring clients can reach them when needed.
While primarily based in Los Angeles, McNicholas & McNicholas LLP serves clients throughout California. They handle a variety of cases, including catastrophic injuries, construction accidents, and premises liability claims.
8) Greenberg & Ruby Injury Attorneys
Greenberg & Ruby Injury Attorneys is a reputable law firm in Santa Monica specializing in wrongful death cases. The firm boasts a remarkable 97.4% success rate in securing compensation for their clients.
Attorney Emily Ruby, a key figure at the firm, has personally obtained over $100 million in compensation for her clients. She was selected as one of Forbes' Best Wrongful Death Lawyers and is known for handling complex cases involving catastrophic injuries and deaths.
The firm offers free consultations to potential clients, allowing them to discuss their cases with experienced legal professionals. Their attorneys are committed to helping California injury victims receive maximum compensation.
Greenberg & Ruby Injury Attorneys have a track record of securing substantial settlements for their clients. In one case, they achieved a $6,500,000 verdict/settlement for a motor vehicle accident resulting in wrongful death.
The firm's attorneys are recognized for their expertise and dedication. Emily Ruby, for instance, won the 2022 "Women in Law" Award and is a graduate of the prestigious CAALA Trial Academy.
9) Michael J. Bidart & Associates
Michael J. Bidart is a renowned attorney specializing in insurance bad faith cases. His firm, based in Claremont, California, has a strong track record of success in complex litigation against insurance companies.
Bidart gained national recognition for his work on the landmark Goodrich v. Aetna case in 1999. The jury awarded $120.5 million against Aetna for denying care recommended by the health plan's own physicians.
His expertise in insurance law has earned him multiple accolades. Best Lawyers named Bidart "Lawyer of the Year" for Insurance Law in the Inland Empire region in 2014, 2017, 2021, 2023, and 2024.
While not based in Santa Monica, Bidart's firm handles cases throughout California. His experience with wrongful death claims related to insurance denials may be valuable for those seeking representation in such matters.
Potential clients can reach Michael J. Bidart & Associates at their Claremont office. The firm offers consultations for individuals dealing with insurance bad faith issues or wrongful death cases involving insurance companies.
10) Law Office of Daniel B. Rodriguez
Daniel B. Rodriguez leads a respected law firm in Santa Monica specializing in wrongful death cases. With years of experience, Rodriguez has built a reputation for providing compassionate and effective legal representation.
The firm focuses on helping families seek justice and compensation after losing a loved one due to negligence. Rodriguez and his team handle a wide range of wrongful death cases, including those resulting from car accidents, medical malpractice, and workplace incidents.
Known for their thorough approach, the Law Office of Daniel B. Rodriguez conducts detailed investigations to build strong cases. They work closely with experts to gather evidence and establish liability.
The firm prioritizes open communication with clients, keeping them informed throughout the legal process. Rodriguez's team aims to alleviate some of the stress families face during these difficult times.
With a track record of successful settlements and verdicts, the Law Office of Daniel B. Rodriguez has earned the trust of many Santa Monica residents. They strive to secure fair compensation for their clients' losses.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims
Wrongful death claims arise when a person dies due to another party's negligence or intentional actions. These legal cases seek compensation for surviving family members.
Legal Definition and Criteria
A wrongful death claim occurs when someone's death results from another's wrongful act, neglect, or default. The deceased person must have had a valid personal injury claim if they had survived. Key elements include:
- Duty of care owed by the defendant
- Breach of that duty
- Causation between the breach and death
- Damages suffered by surviving family members
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is generally two years from the date of death. Eligible claimants typically include spouses, children, and sometimes parents or siblings of the deceased.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death cases stem from various incidents:
- Car accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace accidents
- Defective products
- Criminal acts
These events often involve negligence, such as a distracted driver or a doctor's misdiagnosis. Product liability cases may arise from faulty designs or manufacturing defects. Workplace fatalities can result from unsafe conditions or inadequate safety protocols.
In Santa Monica, traffic collisions and medical errors are frequent causes of wrongful death claims. Beach-related accidents and construction incidents also contribute to these cases.
Evaluating the Best Wrongful Death Attorney
Choosing the right wrongful death attorney requires careful consideration of key factors. A thorough evaluation process helps ensure you select a legal advocate who can effectively represent your interests.
Experience and Expertise
Look for attorneys with extensive experience handling wrongful death cases in Santa Monica. Seek out lawyers who specialize in this area of law and have a proven track record of success. Check their years of practice and the number of similar cases they've handled.
Review their educational background and any specialized training or certifications related to wrongful death litigation. Consider attorneys who are active members of professional organizations focused on personal injury or wrongful death law.
Assess their familiarity with local courts, judges, and opposing counsel in Santa Monica. This knowledge can be invaluable in navigating the legal system efficiently.
Reputation and Client Reviews
Examine online reviews and testimonials from past clients. Pay attention to feedback about the attorney's communication style, responsiveness, and overall client satisfaction.
Check the lawyer's standing with the California State Bar Association. Look for any disciplinary actions or complaints filed against them.
Seek recommendations from trusted sources, such as friends, family, or other legal professionals in Santa Monica. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into an attorney's reputation and work ethic.
Consider the attorney's media presence and any notable cases they've handled. High-profile successes can indicate their skill and dedication to clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wrongful death claims in California involve complex legal considerations. Key aspects include eligibility criteria, filing deadlines, and potential damages.
What constitutes a wrongful death claim in California?
A wrongful death claim arises when someone dies due to another party's negligence or intentional actions. Common causes include car accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, and workplace incidents.
How long does one have to file a wrongful death lawsuit in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits is generally two years from the date of death. Certain exceptions may apply in specific circumstances.
Can family members file for punitive damages in a wrongful death case?
Punitive damages are typically not available in California wrongful death cases. These cases focus on compensating survivors for their losses rather than punishing the defendant.
What are the typical steps in pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit?
The process usually involves investigating the incident, gathering evidence, filing the lawsuit, engaging in discovery, negotiating a potential settlement, and going to trial if necessary.
How does California law determine who can bring a wrongful death claim?
California law specifies eligible parties, including the deceased's spouse, domestic partner, children, and certain other dependent relatives. The personal representative of the estate may also file in some cases.
What types of wrongful death cases have precedence in Santa Monica courts?
Santa Monica courts have handled various wrongful death cases. These include traffic accidents, premises liability incidents, and medical malpractice claims. Each case is evaluated on its unique circumstances.