Client was at a 4 way stop sign intersection when she began crossing. The other party did not stop and ran right into our client causing a t-bone collision.
HHT Law: Compassionate Wrongful Death Attorneys in the San Fernando Valley
At HHT Law, we recognize that losing a loved one due to another’s negligence is one of the most painful experiences a family can endure. Founded by brother and sister Hovhanes and Gohar Tatevossian, HHT Law is a trusted partner for families seeking justice in the San Fernando Valley and beyond.
Since 2013, we have committed ourselves to advocating for families impacted by wrongful death, fighting tirelessly to hold responsible parties accountable. We understand that your case is not just about compensation — it’s about honoring your loved one’s memory and helping your family find a path forward.
With a proven track record of success and a deep understanding of wrongful death law, HHT Law is here to support you in your pursuit of justice. Call us at (818) 988-9121 for a free case review.
“I have a case with them and they are very helpful. Whenever I have questions they don’t ignore my phone calls, instead they are always available to me at any time.
Ana Morales
How We Can Help: HHT Law’s Approach to Wrongful Death Cases
At HHT Law, we recognize that a wrongful death case requires compassion, dedication, and the utmost attention to detail. We are here to guide you through this painful time with support and experienced advocacy.
Free Case Evaluation
We begin with a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss the details of your case and listen to your story. Our team will explain your rights and outline possible paths forward so that you understand what to expect and feel confident about the legal process ahead.
Comprehensive Investigation
Wrongful death cases demand a thorough investigation. We work tirelessly to gather every piece of evidence — from medical records to witness statements, accident reports, and expert testimony. Our detailed approach aims to establish liability and build a compelling case that honors your loved one’s memory and holds responsible parties accountable.
Determining Full and Fair Compensation
We understand that compensation in a wrongful death case goes beyond medical expenses. It encompasses lost income, emotional suffering, and the impact on your family’s future. We will calculate the comprehensive damages owed to you and advocate vigorously to help you receive a fair settlement.
Dedicated Trial Preparation
While many cases can be resolved through negotiations, we prepare every case as though it will go to trial. If necessary, we are ready to represent you in court with experience and determination.
Types of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle
Losing a loved one in a tragic accident is devastating, and finding the right wrongful death attorney is crucial. At our law firm, we have extensive experience in handling various wrongful death cases and are here to help you understand your rights after any type of fatal accident, including:
Wrongful death occurs when a person's life is tragically cut short due to another party's negligence or intentional actions. Unlike criminal cases, which focus on punishing the wrongdoer, wrongful death claims are civil actions that aim to provide financial support to surviving family members.
In these claims, the family seeks compensation for their losses, which can include funeral expenses, medical costs, lost financial support, and emotional suffering.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
In California, only specific individuals are eligible to file a wrongful death claim. These parties include:
Immediate family members: This includes a surviving spouse, domestic partner, and children.
Financially dependent individuals: Stepchildren, putative spouses, and parents who were financially dependent on the deceased may also be eligible.
Intestate successors: If no immediate or dependent family members exist, others may file through intestate succession, according to California inheritance laws.
This prioritization ensures that those most impacted by the loss have the opportunity to seek justice and pursue compensation for their hardships.
Proving a Wrongful Death Claim in California
To seek compensation in a wrongful death case in California, proving negligence requires establishing four key elements:
Duty of care: Show that the defendant owed your loved one a duty to act responsibly.
Breach of duty: Demonstrate that the defendant failed to uphold this duty by acting in a way a reasonable person would not have under similar circumstances.
Causation: Establish that the breach of duty directly led to the fatal injury; it must be evident that your loved one’s death was caused by the defendant’s negligence.
Damages: Provide evidence of the financial and emotional impact on your family, including medical bills, lost income, funeral costs, and emotional distress.
Our team has the experience and resources to gather the evidence needed to prove negligence. We’ll work diligently to build a strong foundation for your wrongful death case.
California Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations
In California, filing a wrongful death lawsuit must occur within a specific timeframe known as the statute of limitations. Generally, families have two years from the date of a loved one’s death to initiate a claim.
However, certain cases may allow for flexibility, such as the discovery rule, which tolls the deadline if the cause of death isn’t immediately known. In these cases, the two-year period begins when the cause of death is discovered or reasonably should have been.
Exceptions also apply for cases involving medical malpractice or government entities, which often have shorter deadlines.
Compensation for Wrongful Death in California
In California, wrongful death compensation is designed to help surviving family members manage the financial and emotional impact of losing a loved one due to another’s negligence or misconduct.
This compensation generally falls into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages. Understanding these different types of compensation can clarify the kinds of support available through a wrongful death claim.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are quantifiable losses directly resulting from the wrongful death. These damages aim to ease the financial burden on family members and may include:
Medical expenses: Any costs related to the deceased's medical care before passing, including emergency treatment, surgeries, and hospital stays, can be covered.
Funeral and burial costs: Funeral, burial, and cremation expenses are common recoverable costs that surviving family members often face after a sudden loss.
Lost income and financial support: This compensation takes into account the earnings the deceased would have provided, including future wages and benefits.
Household contributions: Family members may be compensated for the value of household services the deceased would have contributed.
Lost inheritance: In some cases, families may recover the lost prospect of inheritance, representing the potential financial legacy the deceased would have left.
The last consideration you need to worry about after the passing of your loved one is how to pay for the financial costs of your loss. We’ll do everything in our power to ensure that you receive the money you need.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more subjective and aim to compensate for the emotional and psychological toll on the deceased's family members. While these damages are harder to quantify, they play a crucial role in addressing the impact of the loss. Common non-economic damages include:
Loss of companionship: The emotional void left by the deceased’s absence, particularly for spouses and close family members, is painful and life-altering.
Emotional and mental anguish: Surviving family members may experience deep mental anguish, grief, and emotional suffering.
Loss of guidance and support: Children and other dependents may be compensated for the loss of parental guidance, nurturing, and care, which can have a lasting effect.
We understand that putting a monetary value on your grief can be a challenging process and that the defense may attempt to undervalue your claim. Our team will be your steadfast advocate throughout your case, and we won’t accept less than what you deserve.
How Damages Are Calculated in a California Wrongful Death Case
In a California wrongful death case, calculating damages involves assessing both tangible costs and projected future losses. Here’s how different types of damages are typically calculated:
Economic Expenses
Tangible costs, like medical bills and funeral expenses, are calculated based on documented bills and receipts. Only reasonable expenses are reimbursed, meaning extravagant costs may not be recoverable.
Estimating lost income involves analyzing several factors, such as:
The deceased’s age at the time of death and remaining years of expected employment.
Profession and career potential, including anticipated promotions, raises, and bonuses.
Inflation adjustments to account for wage changes over time.
Retirement benefits from Social Security and employer contributions that the family will no longer receive.
This process can be complex and is best done by an experienced attorney. We know how to accurately value your losses so that you have the opportunity to be fully compensated.
Non-Economic Damages
These less tangible losses, like loss of companionship, affection, and parental guidance, can be evaluated using established methods to assign a fair monetary value. One way to do this is to apply a multiplier to your economic damages. Non-economic damages can, therefore, comprise a substantial portion of your total award, reflecting the gravity of your pain and suffering.
Testimonials from Our Satisfied Clients
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Seek the Compensation Your Family Deserves
At HHT Law, we’re committed to fighting for your right to compensation after the wrongful death of a loved one. Contact us today for a no-obligation case review, and discover how our dedicated attorneys can support you in your pursuit of justice.
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HHT Law: Your San Fernando Valley Wrongful Death Lawyers
When dealing with the tragedy of a wrongful death, you need a legal team that combines skill with empathy. At HHT Law, we are committed to supporting you through every step of your claim.
We understand the emotional toll a wrongful death case can take. Our team is here to listen, answer your questions, and offer compassionate guidance throughout the legal process.
Personalized, Compassionate Support
We believe in accessible legal representation. You pay nothing upfront; our fees are contingent upon winning your case, so you can focus on healing without financial stress.
No Fees Unless We Win
Experienced Wrongful Death Attorneys
Our attorneys bring years of experience in handling complex wrongful death claims. We will thoroughly investigate your case and build a strong strategy aimed at securing maximum compensation.
With HHT Law by your side, you gain a dedicated partner who is ready to stand up for your family’s rights and provide the compassionate service you deserve.
Can I file a wrongful death claim if the deceased did not have a job?
Yes, you can file a wrongful death claim even if the deceased did not have a job. Compensation isn’t solely based on lost income; it also covers non-economic contributions the deceased provided, such as companionship, guidance, and emotional support.
California law recognizes the value of these contributions, allowing family members to seek damages that reflect the impact of the loss on their lives, regardless of employment status.
What if the person responsible for the wrongful death does not have sufficient insurance coverage?
If the person responsible for the wrongful death lacks sufficient insurance coverage, you may still have options to pursue compensation. One approach is to file a claim through your own uninsured or underinsured motorist policy, if applicable.
Alternatively, you could seek compensation by pursuing the liable individual’s personal assets through a lawsuit. Your attorney can evaluate your case details and advise you on the best strategy for obtaining the compensation your family deserves.
If my loved one was killed in an accident involving a commercial vehicle, could the company that owns the vehicle be responsible?
Yes, the company that owns a commercial vehicle can be held responsible if their employee caused the accident. Under “respondeat superior,” employers are liable for employees’ negligence within work duties. Additionally, if the company was negligent in hiring, training, or managing drivers, it could be directly liable.
How are the fees structured for a wrongful death attorney, and are there additional costs involved in pursuing the case?
Wrongful death attorneys usually work on a contingency fee basis, receiving a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) only if they win the case. Additional costs, like filing fees and expert witness expenses, are often covered up front by the attorney and later reimbursed from the settlement. It’s wise to discuss these fees and costs before beginning your case.
Can a wrongful death claim be filed even if there is an ongoing criminal case related to the same incident?
Yes, a wrongful death claim can be filed even if there is an ongoing criminal case related to the same incident. Wrongful death claims are civil cases focused on seeking financial compensation, while criminal cases are pursued by the state to determine guilt and apply penalties.
These cases run independently, with different standards of proof, allowing both processes to proceed simultaneously without affecting one another’s outcome.
What is the difference between a wrongful death claim and a survival claim?
A wrongful death claim allows family members to recover damages for their own losses, like companionship and financial support, following a loved one’s death. A survival claim, however, seeks damages on behalf of the deceased’s estate for expenses and suffering they experienced before passing. These claims together address both the family’s and the estate’s losses.
