Cornell Law School gives a fairly simple definition of what a wrongful death suit is. Essentially, it is a civil action by people who were close with the person who had passed away against the person or entity that caused their death. Unfortunately, there are many instances in which someone else can be held liable for a death and that holds true in Fresno as well. First, let’s look at the most common causes of wrongful death.
Common Reasons for Wrongful Death Suits in Fresno
A large percentage of wrongful death suits filed in Fresno are due to vehicle accidents, including those involving pedestrians. If the driver at fault for the accident causes the death of another person involved, even if they are in the same vehicle, they can be held liable for the wrongful death of that person. However, there are also other reasons why a wrongful death suit may be appropriate.
Medical malpractice seems to be a never-ending battle in the courts. Every practicing physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or other medical provider is required by law to carry malpractice insurance. While many medical procedures or treatments come with reasonable risk, sometimes a negligent medical professional can add to that risk and cause additional injury or wrongful death. In 2018, the largest personal injury claim award in Fresno county’s history was handed down to a heart surgeon’s negligence in the operating room.
Other causes of wrongful death that have been seen in Fresno include workplace accident due to employer negligence or even the negligence of another employee. Defective products, or unsafe products, can also cause death and the manufacturer, the retailer, and other organizations involved may be held liable. Even in criminal cases, should someone be a victim of murder or their death in some way was caused by the criminal act, can result in a civil case in the Fresno courts for that death.
Reasons to Hire an Experienced Fresno Lawyer
During the 2015-16 fiscal year, the State of California saw over 1,000 civil cases filed. While not all of those were filed in Fresno County, this is an enormous amount of cases that have to go through the legal processes that the courts mandate. Most of those with little to no personal legal experience can quickly become overwhelmed by the steps and the paperwork involved. There are also statutes of limitations involved in cases like these.
Most civil cases filed in California take over 18 months to reach a resolution. Many more can take 2 years or longer. In a wrongful death case where there is a lot of evidence to present, statements from medical providers and other family members, as well as other paperwork to file, these cases can last a while. If something isn’t filed correctly, or within a certain amount of time, the case may be delayed or thrown out altogether. An experienced wrongful death attorney in Fresno can stay on the case and gather the needed information to keep things moving.
The biggest reason to hire an experienced lawyer, however, is that you and your family are under enough stress with the loss of your loved one, so handing over the reins to someone familiar with the courts can help you focus on healing from the loss. A lawyer also knows how to present your case to the courts to help you get the compensation you need to pay for final expenses or even support those who depended on them.
The Right Fresno Wrongful Death Attorney
In Fresno, the Maison Law Firm has the legal experience and power to represent your wrongful death case. In fact, we don’t get paid until you do. Martin Gasparian, a knowledgeable and skilled personal injury lawyer, will fight on behalf of your family. Call today to schedule a free consultation to learn more about what the Maison Law Firm, and Martin, can do for you.
