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Malibu Wrongful Death Lawyer

Accidents are quite common in Malibu and when they happen, people sustain serious injuries. Sometimes, the injuries are so severe, victims do not survive them. When this is the case and a person passes away due to someone else’s negligent actions, it is known as a wrongful death. Negligent parties can be held liable for paying compensation for their careless behavior. Filing a wrongful death claim is a complex legal process, though, and there are many laws that govern them. A Malibu wrongful death lawyer can advise you on what those are and help your family recover the full and fair settlement you deserve.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

Wrongful deaths are sometimes the result of criminal actions. For example, if a person dies due to injuries they sustained during a physical assault, the death could result in a criminal and civil legal case. Criminal and civil cases are completely separate from each other and the outcome of one will not necessarily impact the other.

During a criminal case, the party that caused the accident resulting in death is prosecuted for their actions. If they are found guilty by a judge or jury, they may have to serve jail time, pay high fines, and face other criminal consequences. Even a guilty verdict in a criminal case will not compensate the loved ones of the deceased.

Filing a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party is the only way for family members to receive compensation for the losses they incur due to the death. Personal injury lawsuits are civil cases. The party filing must prove the liable party was at fault and caused the accident that resulted in their loved one’s death. A successful personal injury lawsuit can compensate family members for their losses, including the loss of income the deceased provided for the household and the loss of love, companionship, and support. Reach out to a wrongful death attorney in Malibu to get started today.

Who Is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Like the rest of California, only certain people are eligible to file a wrongful death claim in Malibu. Those most closely related to the deceased are eligible first and the list then extends to relatives who are more distant. Individuals who can file a wrongful death claim include:

  • Spouses
  • Children, including stepchildren
  • Minors who have resided with the deceased for at least six months
  • Parents

When the deceased does not have any of the above surviving family members, others in the family are eligible to file a wrongful death claim. Siblings and their children can file, and then the grandparents. If the deceased did not have these surviving family members, the next of kin can file a wrongful death claim.

Call Our Wrongful Death Lawyer in Malibu for a Free Case Review

If you have lost someone you love and believe you are entitled to compensation, our Malibu wrongful death attorney at Brod Law Firm can help you obtain the maximum damages you deserve. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to schedule a free review of your case.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
"I am somewhat intimidated by lawyers, however when I met Greg I was immediately at ease. He was compassionate, knowledgeable and extremely easy to talk to. He handled my case professionally and most successfully..." Annette P., Avvo review
★★★★★
"It is difficult for anyone who has not had bedbugs to imagine the extent to which this problem negatively effects every aspect of your life. I contacted Greg Brod, and he was there for us. He listened to our problems..." Ron, Avvo review
★★★★★
"We were extremely happy with the outcome of our specific case, and would absolutely recommend Greg to anyone looking for legal assistance." Celine V., Yelp review
★★★★★
"I was referred to Greg Brod for a car accident I was in and I will now owe the person who referred me, forever." Christine M., Yelp review
★★★★★
"Greg handled our case with a laser-focused determination to right the wrongs we had been forced to endure…Throughout the entire process, we were in constant communication, with Greg always..." America S., Yelp review