Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct is devastating, and no legal outcome can replace what you’ve lost. However, a wrongful death claim can help bring accountability, provide financial relief, and offer a sense of justice for your family. At Flahavan Law Offices, we help families in Petaluma navigate these complex cases with compassion, skill, and a relentless commitment to holding the responsible parties accountable.
Losing a loved one is always painful. But when someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing causes that loss, it becomes more than a personal tragedy – it becomes a wrong that demands justice. At Flahavan Law Offices, we stand with families in Petaluma who have suffered such loss, fighting to hold responsible parties accountable for their actions.
No amount of money can replace the life of a spouse, parent, or child. However, a wrongful death lawsuit can ease the financial burden left behind, provide a sense of justice, and offer families the closure they need to move forward. We approach each case with compassion and a deep commitment to supporting our clients through the most challenging times of their lives.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
Under California law, a wrongful death occurs when someone dies as a result of another person’s or entity’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. These tragic cases often arise from:
- Car, truck, or motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian or bicycle accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Defective products
- Unsafe premises (e.g., poor lighting, slip and falls)
- Construction or workplace accidents
- Criminal acts such as assault or DUI
Even if criminal charges are being pursued against the responsible party, surviving family members can still file a civil wrongful death lawsuit to seek financial compensation.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
State law gives specific individuals the legal right to file a wrongful death claim, including:
- The surviving spouse or domestic partner
- The deceased’s children
- If no children exist, the deceased’s parents, siblings, or other legal heirs
- In some cases, people who were financially dependent on the deceased
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible to file a claim, our legal team can walk you through your rights and options.
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What Damages Are Available?
While no legal outcome can undo your loss, a successful wrongful death lawsuit can provide compensation for a wide range of damages, such as:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills related to the final illness or injury
- Loss of financial support and future earnings
- Loss of companionship, love, and emotional support
- Pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members
- Loss of household services
- In some instances, punitive damages for egregious wrongdoing
Our goal is to help protect your family’s financial future and honor the legacy of your loved one through meaningful legal action.
Why Choose Flahavan Law Offices?
With decades of experience handling wrongful death and severe injury cases across California, Flahavan Law Offices offers a unique combination of legal expertise, compassionate guidance, and community-based service. We offer:
- Personalized, client-focused representation
- Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies and responsible parties
- Deep familiarity with Petaluma courts and Sonoma County laws
We take the time to listen, explain your options, and build a strong case that reflects the gravity of your loss.
Time Matters in Wrongful Death Cases
California’s statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is generally two years from the date of death. Waiting too long to take legal action could mean losing your right to compensation. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin gathering evidence, identifying liable parties, and building your case.
