California Wrongful Death Lawyer
Pursuing Justice for Grieving Families in San Francisco
Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is a profound tragedy for any family. At Peterson Injury Law, we understand the overwhelming grief, anger, and unanswered questions that come with wrongful death. If your loved one passed away because of another party’s carelessness, our team will advocate tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Our wrongful death lawyer brings decades of experience and a proven record in San Francisco and throughout California. With millions recovered in settlements and a reputation for record-breaking verdicts, you can trust us to give your case the time and personalized attention it deserves. Attorney Erik Peterson has earned national acclaim and is a Senior Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America®, an honor held by fewer than 0.05% of practicing lawyers nationwide.
San Francisco families often face unique challenges after a wrongful death, from navigating city regulations to dealing with local probate courts. Our knowledge of the local court system and procedures for the San Francisco Superior Court enables us to address area-specific obstacles that may impact your claim. Our connection to this community allows us to represent families with insight and timely action as urgent matters develop.
While no legal outcome can undo the loss of a loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim offers families justice, a sense of closure, and financial relief for accrued medical debt and other losses. Do not face this struggle alone—turn to Peterson Injury Law for the diligent advocacy and unwavering legal support you deserve. Our firm remains available 24/7 to answer your questions or concerns.
If your loved one passed away due to negligence in California, our attorney can tirelessly seek justice for your family. Contact us online or by calling (415) 630-2913 to discuss your case.
What Constitutes a Wrongful Death?
Under California law, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies because of the negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct of another person or entity. Causes can include fatal car accidents involving negligent drivers, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, or defective products.
In these cases, surviving family members may be eligible for compensation under California’s Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) § 377.60. At Peterson Injury Law, we help guide families through these legal complexities while advocating for fair results and clear communication during a difficult time.
Wrongful death incidents in San Francisco often arise from risks unique to the Bay Area, such as pedestrian accidents in the city’s downtown districts, collisions involving public transportation, or injuries from construction site hazards. We keep up with local trends and safety data to build our strategy around patterns that shape San Francisco wrongful death claims.
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$3.75 Million Anesthesia Error
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$6.25 Million Anoxic Brain Injury, Anesthesia Error
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Record-Setting $17 Million Birth Injury Settlement
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“Erik and his team were incredibly helpful. They consistently helped me through the unfamiliar and uncertain legal processes, which were all new to me. I trusted Erik always had my best interests in mind and was fighting on my behalf. I deeply appreciate all they did for me and my family.”- Peter M.
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“Erik and his paralegal, Kate, were incredible throughout our case. Erik is an amazing attorney, he was open with us from the very beginning, attentive, and always made sure we understood every step of the process. His honesty and professionalism gave us so”- Joyce D.
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“Working with Erik Peterson was an exceptional experience during one of the most difficult times in our lives. As we faced shock and a maze of medical decisions, Erik seamlessly took on our medical malpractice case with professionalism, compassion, and deep expertise. From our very first conversation, it was clear that Erik had both the knowledge and the sensitivity to guide us through the process with integrity. Erik ultimately secured a settlement that protected our financial future and gave us peace of mind to focus our energy on healing and recovery. We are profoundly grateful for his guidance and advocacy, and we cannot recommend Erik and his team highly enough.”- Jennifer B.
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“I am so very grateful to my lawyer, Erik and his team for his unwavering support, dedication and commitment. Thank you for all your hard work leading us to a victorious outcome in court!”- Quia K.
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“My wife and I are forever grateful to Erik and his team for putting the effort and care for our son and his needs. We chose Erik over another lawyer because they took the time to FaceTime with us and speak to us on a personal level which made us feel safe and heard. Throughout the process Erik was very communicative and detailed in explaining how all the legal things worked and how long things took. He was always truthful and honest but also caring. At the end Erik and his team were able to help us and now our son will have his needs met and a more comfortable life. Thank you.”- Adrian B.
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“He couldn't have managed independence to this extent, his current level of physical activity, or the complexity of his recent social interactions 6 months ago. None of it would have happened without ongoing therapeutic support - which has only been possible with the financial settlement.”- Former Client
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“Thank you Erik for winning our case! Erik and his team are superb. If you are in need of his attorney services, it is likely, like myself, that you are experiencing one of the most traumatic and painful times of your life. Of course you want an excellent lawyer - and he is it. The bonus: he is also a genuinely real and kind human being. I am so grateful to him and his team.”- Margaret C.
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“His knowledge and attention to detail was stellar, making me feel secure during a difficult case. Unlike most people in life, he was always upfront with me and kept me updated every step of the way, which is truly not what I was expecting from a lawyer. Although it was determined my case could take several years, especially during a pandemic, due to his dedication it was over in only 2yrs and made the process as easy for me as possible. I would absolutely recommend this firm and use him again if I ever need to, although I hope I don't.”- Kristy N.
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“My husband passed due to medical malpractice and I didn't know what to do or who to call. All I knew was I needed to get him justice. I researched and found Erik Peterson on google and reviewed various reviews on various sites. He was very patient and fought for me and my late husband. Erik told me what to expect ahead of time so I could prepare myself mentally. All in all, I HIGHLY recommend them to anyone who may need legal assistance in personal injury, medical malpractice and wrongful death. They are excellent and I can't say enough good things about them.”- Kiki A.
Who Is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
In California, only certain parties may file wrongful death claims. These include the deceased person’s surviving spouse or domestic partner, children (biological or adopted), and stepchildren or minors who depended on the decedent for financial support.
If there are no surviving family members in these categories, the right to file a claim extends to people entitled to the deceased person’s property under intestate succession, such as parents or siblings. Our attorney examines each client's situation to ensure the claim complies with state law while protecting your rights every step of the way.
Courts in California, especially in diverse cities like San Francisco, see various family structures and relationships. We review your eligibility according to state statutes, including less common arrangements present in the city. By clarifying these details early, we help families resolve claims efficiently and avoid unnecessary delays.
What Compensation Is Available in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Families may recover various damages in a wrongful death lawsuit. Common types of compensation include final medical debt, lost future income and benefits, funeral expenses, and loss of companionship. Our attorney recognizes the legal standards required to pursue the full range of damages your family deserves.
State law defines the categories and limits of compensation in these cases, yet San Francisco’s high cost of living can affect the calculation of both economic and non-economic damages. Familiarity with local standards and the expectations of local judges helps us maximize clarity and accuracy as we present the value of these losses in each case.
The Emotional and Financial Impact of Wrongful Death Cases
When a loved one dies due to medical malpractice, the impact stretches far beyond legal concerns. At Peterson Injury Law, we know that families carry both deep sorrow and significant financial pressure at a time when support matters most.
Here are some of the key challenges families experience after a wrongful death due to medical negligence:
- Grief and loss: The emotional impact is often overwhelming, as families face absence of companionship, advice, and support.
- Financial strain: Sudden medical bills, funeral costs, and loss of income can add financial stress to an already difficult period.
- Legal complexity: Wrongful death cases frequently involve complicated rules, court timelines, and legal jargon that can confuse families without legal help.
- Uncertainty about the future: Families may worry about their finances and emotional health as they look ahead.
Peterson Injury Law offers steady support and practical guidance for families facing these challenges. We focus on relieving your burden so you can spend your energy on healing and honoring your loved one’s memory.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in San Francisco
The city of San Francisco presents a unique set of risks that contribute to wrongful death cases each year. Heavy city traffic, frequent construction projects, and active pedestrian areas often lead to fatal auto collisions and workplace accidents. The compact streets in neighborhoods like the Financial District and South of Market experience high volumes of foot traffic, cyclists, and vehicles every day.
Accidents involving public transportation systems such as Muni or BART, incidents at large local events, and commercial property code violations also lead to claims. Medical malpractice claims may involve care at one of San Francisco's major hospitals. By understanding the local landscape, Peterson Injury Law can better serve families as they consider next steps. Staying informed about city safety standards and local regulations shapes our approach to each wrongful death claim we review.
The Wrongful Death Claim Process in San Francisco Courts
Families taking legal action after a wrongful death in San Francisco move through several steps shaped by local court procedures. Claims typically begin with a thorough investigation and identification of the at-fault party, followed by assembling and submitting supporting documents for the San Francisco Superior Court. Our knowledge of regional judicial practices helps families set reasonable expectations for every stage of their case.
Factors such as backlog in the local court system and the need to meet strict timelines may affect how quickly a wrongful death case moves forward. Pursuing claims against city agencies or municipal contractors requires attention to additional deadlines and local notification requirements. Throughout the process, Peterson Injury Law communicates with families, clarifies court requests, and keeps clients informed as cases move through the San Francisco legal system. Our familiarity with courthouse protocols adds confidence and clarity for families working toward justice for their loved ones.
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Do I Need a Wrongful Death Lawyer?
Hiring an experienced attorney for a wrongful death case gives your family the advantage of legal knowledge, resourceful investigation, and reliable advocacy. Some important reasons to work with a wrongful death attorney include:
- Legal guidance: Wrongful death claims involve complex processes and state statutes. Your lawyer will help you navigate these issues and comply with legal requirements.
- Maximizing compensation: Your attorney will identify every possible avenue for financial recovery and carefully calculate all damages, including both economic and non-economic losses.
- Proving liability: Establishing responsibility can be difficult. A lawyer builds a strong case and meets the burden of proof by gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
- Negotiation and litigation skills: A seasoned legal team can negotiate fair settlements and protect your rights in court against insurers and corporations.
Navigating a wrongful death claim in San Francisco requires familiarity with both California law and the practices of the local courts. Jurors in the city may respond to evidence and arguments differently than in other regions, and our knowledge of the San Francisco judiciary prepares you for what to expect through every phase of your case.
If you lost a loved one due to another’s carelessness, choose a firm with proven results and experience to pursue justice. Call (415) 630-2913 to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do wrongful death cases usually take to resolve in San Francisco?
Timelines vary, but many wrongful death cases in San Francisco take several months to a few years to resolve, depending on case complexity, court schedules, and the willingness of parties to settle.
What makes the claim process unique in San Francisco?
San Francisco courts may require additional documentation and can encounter longer scheduling delays due to high case volume. Local notice rules for claims against city entities can also create extra time pressures for families.
Can multiple family members participate in a wrongful death lawsuit in California?
Yes, California law allows certain surviving family members to join together in a single wrongful death lawsuit, if they meet the eligibility requirements specified in state statutes.
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