Pasadena Wrongful Death Lawyer

Trusted Pasadena wrongful death lawyers at Pyramid Legal specialize in various areas of personal injury law. We are dedicated to fighting for your rights so you and your family can receive the highest compensation under California law after your loved one’s fatal accident.

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a wrongful death case can bring – that’s why our team of legal professionals always strives to zealously represent our clients, and pursue excellence in every case. Feel free to read the testimonials of our satisfied Pasadena clients or check out our verified five-star rating on Google.

Why Choose Pyramid Legal

When you choose Pyramid Legal, you’re choosing a team of skilled attorneys who are passionate about helping accident victims in Pasadena and throughout Southern California.

Co-founders Eduard Mkhitaryan and David Zakharian have a proven track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts, and they’re not afraid to take on even the most complex cases.

Eduard’s background in medical malpractice cases gives him a deeper understanding of the realities of medical insurance and the health industry. While David, a former surgical technologist at Cedar Sinai Hospital, offers valuable insight into personal injury cases.

In the high-stakes world of wrongful death lawsuits, having lawyers who possess medical knowledge is a game-changer. They have a unique understanding of the technical aspects of your case, allowing them to construct compelling arguments and identify crucial evidence that other law firms might overlook.

With their ability to collaborate seamlessly with doctors and accurately assess the devastating impacts of negligent conduct, they bring an unparalleled advantage in building a strong case on your behalf.

At Pyramid Legal, we do not charge a fee if we do not recover compensation for you. Call 818-814-8070 now or send us a message through our secure online form for a free case evaluation.

How Can We Help You In A Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Our Pasadena wrongful death lawyers possess integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to our clients. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your unique needs, and develop a personalized strategy that maximizes your chances of success.

We will provide comprehensive legal services through every stage of your lawsuit, including:

Investigation: We’ll conduct a thorough investigation of your loved one’s accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records to support your claim.

Liability Determination: Our attorneys will work to determine who was at fault for the incident, whether it was another party, a property owner, an employer, a vehicle or device manufacturer, or even a government entity responsible for maintaining safe conditions.

Insurance Negotiations: We’ll handle all communications with the insurance companies involved, fighting to ensure that you receive a fair settlement that covers your loved one’s hospital bills, burial costs, funeral expenses, and damages for your pain and suffering.

Litigation: If necessary, we’ll take the case to trial and present a compelling argument to defend your loved one’s dignity and honor to a judge and jury.

Ongoing Support: Throughout the legal process, we’ll keep you informed, answer your questions, and provide the emotional support you need during this tragic time.

About Wrongful Death Cases in Pasadena

Consult with a Pasadena wrongful lawyer at Pyramid Legal for urgent assistance after losing a loved one from another’s careless and reckless conduct.

Nestled in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, Pasadena is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and thriving cultural scene. Home to the famous Rose Bowl Stadium and the California Institute of Technology, Pasadena attracts visitors from around the world.

However, it’s no stranger to the heartbreaking reality of wrongful death cases, which can arise from a multitude of devastating circumstances.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death

Medical negligence is one of the most distressing causes, occurring when healthcare providers fail to meet the necessary standard of care, resulting in the preventable death of a patient.

Pasadena’s healthcare facilities, from hospitals to clinics and nursing homes, are not exempt from incidents of medical malpractice, misdiagnosis, or surgical errors that can lead to wrongful death.

Road accidents are another significant contributor to wrongful death cases in Pasadena. The city’s congested streets and highways, including the 210 and 134 freeways, are the scenes of numerous fatal crashes each year, attributed to factors such as speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, and reckless behavior. Pedestrians and cyclists in high-traffic areas like Old Pasadena and the Playhouse Village are also at risk of fatal accidents.

Workplace accidents are a further cause of wrongful death here, a city home to various industries such as technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. When employers neglect to provide a safe working environment, adequate training, or proper equipment maintenance, the risk of fatal accidents increases.

Construction sites, factories, and even office settings can be the location of tragic incidents resulting in wrongful death, including falls from heights, machinery malfunctions, or exposure to toxic substances.

Defective products are also an often-overlooked cause of fatalities. From everyday household items to complex medical devices, product failures due to design flaws, manufacturing defects, or insufficient warnings can have deadly consequences.

Defective auto parts, such as faulty brakes or malfunctioning airbags, can result in fatal car accidents, while defective drugs or medical implants can lead to life-threatening complications.

Who Can File A Wrongful Death Claim in California?

In California, the law provides clear guidelines regarding who is eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit, ensuring that the deceased’s closest relatives and dependents have the opportunity to hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation they deserve.

Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 377.60-.62 establishes a hierarchy of individuals who have the right to bring forth a wrongful death claim:

The deceased’s surviving spouse or domestic partner
The deceased’s surviving children
The deceased’s grandchildren, if there are no surviving children

This primary group has the first priority in filing a wrongful death lawsuit, reflecting the law’s recognition of the profound impact the loss of a spouse, parent, or child can have on a family.

In the absence of any survivors in the first priority group, the right to file a wrongful death claim extends to those who would be entitled to inherit the deceased’s property through intestate succession. This includes individuals such as:

The deceased’s parents
The deceased’s siblings

Furthermore, California acknowledges the unique circumstances of individuals who may not have been legally related to the deceased but were nonetheless financially dependent on them. This group encompasses:

The deceased’s putative spouse (someone who believed in good faith that they were lawfully married to the deceased)
The children of the putative spouse
The deceased’s stepchildren
The deceased’s parents
The deceased’s legal guardians (if the former’s parents are deceased)

Understanding who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in California is an essential first step for grieving families seeking to navigate the complex legal landscape in the wake of a tragic loss.

By working closely with an experienced and compassionate wrongful death attorney, eligible family members can ensure that their rights are protected and that they have the support and guidance they need to pursue justice on behalf of their loved ones.

Types of Damages and Compensation From Wrongful Death Claims

The types of damages awarded in wrongful death cases are clearly defined by the Judicial Council of California Civil Jury Instructions (CACI), specifically in CACI No. 3921, which pertains to the wrongful death of an adult.

During a civil trial, judges rely on these jury instructions to ensure that jurors have a comprehensive understanding of the applicable laws and legal concepts, enabling them to make well-informed decisions during deliberations.

According to CACI No. 3921, wrongful death damages are classified into two distinct categories: economic and non-economic.

Economic Damages

Economic damages encompass the quantifiable financial losses suffered by the surviving family members. These may include the financial support the deceased would have contributed to the family had they lived, with future support awards adjusted to reflect present cash value.

Additionally, economic damages may account for the loss of gifts or benefits that family members anticipated receiving from the deceased, as well as the costs associated with the deceased’s funeral and burial. Furthermore, the reasonable monetary value of household services the deceased would have provided is also considered economic damage.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are more subjective in nature and aim to compensate the surviving family members for the intangible losses they have endured.

These damages are assigned a dollar value and may include the loss of the deceased’s love, companionship, comfort, care, assistance, protection, affection, society, and moral support.

In cases involving the wrongful death of a spouse or partner, non-economic damages may also account for the loss of enjoyment of intimacy with the deceased. Moreover, the loss of the deceased’s guidance is another significant non-economic damage that may be awarded.

Role of a Specialized Attorney

When you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, it can feel like your world has been shattered. You’re likely facing a multitude of challenges, from overwhelming grief and emotional trauma to the financial burden of medical bills, funeral expenses, and loss of income.

In the midst of this turmoil, it’s essential to have a dedicated and knowledgeable wrongful death attorney on your side, fighting for your rights and the memory of your loved one.

Legal Strategies and Client Representation

We take a personalized approach to every wrongful death case, crafting legal strategies that are tailored to our clients’ specific needs and objectives. We’ll leverage our extensive resources and knowledge to advocate for your best interests and ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable for their actions.

We believe that our role extends far beyond simply providing legal advice – we’re here to be your unwavering ally and support system. We’ll be your voice when you feel unheard, your strength when you feel overwhelmed, and your guide when the path ahead seems uncertain.

The Importance of Expertise and Personal Experience

We’ve witnessed the profound impact that a wrongful death can bring on the victim’s loved ones – which is why we fight so passionately to secure the compensation and resources that grieving families need to heal and rebuild.

At our firm, our compassionate lawyers bring decades of specialized experience to the table, along with a wealth of personal insight gained from our own life experiences. We’ve seen the tactics that insurance companies employ to minimize or deny claims in wrongful death cases, and we know how to counter them effectively.

We also understand the complex medical issues that often arise in wrongful death cases. We work closely with healthcare professionals and medical experts to ensure that the extent and severity of your loved one’s fatal injuries are fully documented and that the negligence that led to their untimely death can be clearly established in court.

Working with a Local Wrongful Death Lawyer

During this stressful time, working with a local Pasadena wrongful death lawyer can provide numerous advantages, such as:

Familiarity with local laws and regulations: A local attorney has in-depth knowledge of the specific rules, statutes, and regulations that apply to wrongful death cases in Pasadena and across California. This familiarity allows them to build a strong case strategy that takes into account the unique legal landscape of your community.

Knowledge of local courts and judges: Through their experience practicing law in the city, a local wrongful death lawyer has developed an understanding of the local court system, including the preferences and tendencies of judges and other key decision-makers. This knowledge can be invaluable in crafting persuasive arguments and negotiating favorable settlements.

Accessibility and convenience: When you work with a local lawyer, you benefit from their proximity and availability. You can easily schedule in-person meetings, drop off documents, or receive updates on your case without the need for long-distance travel or communication delays.

Connections with local experts and resources: A local attorney has established relationships with a network of experts in your area, such as accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and financial advisors. These connections can be leveraged to strengthen your case for your loved one and ensure that you receive the support and guidance you need.

Reputation within the local legal scene: An attorney’s reputation within the local legal community can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. A local lawyer who has earned the respect of their peers and built a track record of success will be better positioned to negotiate with insurance companies and opposing counsel on your behalf.

Contact A Pasadena-based Wrongful Death Lawyer Now

Consult the award-winning Pasadena wrongful death lawyers from Pyramid Legal after suffering from your loved one’s fatal accident. The emotional and financial toll of losing a loved one to wrongful death is immeasurable, compounded by the knowledge that the death could have been prevented had the responsible parties exercised due care.

At our firm, we believe that our expertise and experience are most valuable when they’re used to benefit our clients. We’re not here to simply handle your case — we’re here to help you navigate this difficult chapter of your life with confidence, clarity, and a renewed sense of hope for the future.

Let us shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on what matters most — healing, remembering, and celebrating the life of your loved one. Call us at 818-814-8070 now or send us a message through our secure online form.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

On the road, life can change in the blink of an eye. Despite our best efforts, accidents still happen. Even when we’re doing everything right, drivers around us may be careless or distracted. Pedestrians and cyclists are at risk from larger vehicles. Trucks and other cargo carriers may not be loaded properly, causing dangerous conditions. Commercial drivers may be pushed to exhaustion from deadlines and company pressures. The physics of high-speed highways around Southern California could mean catastrophic injuries in a collision. We will fight for you to get the maximum possible compensation for any injuries you suffer so that you can cover your bills and focus on recovering your health after an accident.

CAR ACCIDENT

You may be confused about what to do after a car crash. You must first determine who was at fault in the accident then file the proper legal claims. You may have to deal with you or another driver’s insurance company, neither of which are on your side.

UBER / LYFT ACCIDENT

We all hope for the best whenever we get into an Uber or Lyft. But with the number of rideshares on the road today, accidents are bound to happen. Whether you’re a passenger inside a rideshare vehicle or a third party caught up in a collision with one, you may wonder how the rideshare companies affect your situation.

TRUCK ACCIDENT

Because trucks tend to be so massive in comparison to passenger vehicles, they have a sizable advantage in accidents. Tractor-trailors, 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, and big rigs usually weigh significantly more than other cars. As a result, truck accidents can be devastating.

MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

The dangers of motorcycles are well documented. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are naturally at a greater risk of injury because they are unprotected on the road. Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles and can be difficult for other drivers to see in their blind spots.

BUS ACCIDENT

Bus drivers may be working long hours or driving tired, especially if there are staff shortages. While local city buses may travel at slower speeds, others can travel just as fast as regular traffic. In the event of a collision, buses have a clear size advantage over passenger cars. Even pedestrians and passengers getting on and off are at risk from poorly driven buses.

AIRPLANE ACCIDENT

Although rare, airplane accidents are often catastrophic and deadly when they happen. To complicate matters, airplane crashes involve complex areas of law and highly technical issues. Whether the accident involves a single-engine jet, private operator, or commercial airliner, you must establish how it happened to determine who was at fault. Between weather patterns, maintenance standards, engineering defects, pilot misconduct, airline policies, and air traffic control, this is no small feat. At Pyramid Legal, we help airplane accident victims and their families get justice, find closure, and recover for the harm they’ve suffered.

BICYCLE ACCIDENT

Bicycling is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint, get in your physical activity, and avoid a stop-and-go commute in a car. But despite the many projects around Los Angeles to make city roads more friendly to cyclists, bicycle accidents happen all over Southern California. And in a collision between a bicycle and a car, the car usually has the advantage.

Pedestrian Accidents

Any vehicle traveling over 20 miles per hour can cause catastrophic injury to unprotected pedestrians. Broken or shattered bones, spinal injuries, internal organ injuries, head injuries, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are some of the most common injuries in pedestrian accidents.

DOG BITES

Not all dogs are cute and cuddly. Some unfortunately do not receive the proper training they need from their owners. A dog’s jaw is very powerful and a deep bite can cause significant injury, ripping muscle and tendons and even breaking bones. You could face long-term scarring or impairment or become unable to do your job. In the state of California, dog owners are held strictly liable for dog bites, regardless of the dog’s history. The attorneys at Pyramid Legal can help you recover any hospital bills or lost income as a result of your dog bite.

PRODUCTS LIABILITY

Everyday products can be dangerous if they’re defective in their design, manufacturing, or marketing. We often take the safety of the products around us for granted, but when proper safety and quality protocols are not followed, catastrophic injuries can result. This is especially true for products like prescription drugs, medical devices, everyday home appliances, or safety devices like airbags. When products are defective, innocent people can get hurt. Pyramid Legal helps clients hold companies accountable for injuries caused by their defective products.

PREMISES LIABILITY

Property owners, operators, and management groups have a responsibility to keep their premises safe for tenants, visitors, and even some trespassers. State and federal laws have basic requirements that public properties must meet in order to be safe for the public, such as proper signage, guardrails, and building codes. If a property owner fails to take the steps necessary to keep the premises safe, the Pyramid Legal team can help you hold them responsible for any injuries that resulted from their negligence.

Slip and Fall

Slip and fall injuries could happen anywhere – the sidewalk, the grocery store, a public park, a movie theater. Some areas are more prone to slips and falls, such as escalators, elevators, swimming pools, or construction sites.

CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENTS

Construction worksites can be extremely dangerous. Although construction workers face risky conditions on the job, electrocutions, falls, fires, and heavy equipment can risk severe injury or death even for people passing by outside. That’s why construction sites must be managed properly in compliance with all relevant rules and regulations. The attorneys at Pyramid Legal can help you establish fault and recover compensation for injuries you’ve suffered on or near a construction site because of someone else’s negligence or reckless behavior.

Catastrophic injury

Catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries (TBI), serious burns, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, and amputations have permanent consequences. Victims may need medical treatment or supportive care for the rest of their lives. On top of that, an injury could make them unable to do their jobs. They could lose their income and insurance as hospital bills pile up.

Wrongful death

Even if someone causes the death of another, it may not always rise to the level of a crime – for example, traffic accidents where the at-fault driver was neither reckless nor intended to hurt anyone. But whether criminal charges are involved or not, a victim’s family can still get justice in civil court by filing a wrongful death lawsuit or survival action.

PROPERTY DAMAGE

Property damage could cost you thousands of dollars or more, whether it’s damage to your car, home, business, or other high-value personal property such as electronics. Even if your property is insured, your insurance company may drag their feet on compensating you for damages. They may try to get you to settle for less than you’re fully owed. At Pyramid Legal, we’ll go to bat against the insurance companies for you so that you get the maximum possible compensation you deserve under your policy. If your property was damaged by someone else’s negligent or reckless behavior, we can help you hold that person responsible for the cost.

FIRE DAMAGE

If you have suffered property damage or personal injuries due to a fire in Southern California, a fire damage attorney can assist you in seeking compensation for your losses. They can help you navigate the complex legal process of filing a claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and pursuing litigation if necessary.

WATER DAMAGE

If you have experienced water damage to your property in Southern California, a water damage attorney can help you recover compensation for your losses. They can assist you in filing an insurance claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and pursuing legal action if necessary to ensure that you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.

VANDALISM

If you have been a victim of vandalism in Southern California, a vandalism attorney can help you protect your legal rights and seek compensation for your losses. They can assist you in filing a police report, gathering evidence, and pursuing legal action against the responsible parties, including seeking compensation for property damage and any injuries suffered.

LEMON LAW

Lemon laws exist in the U.S. to protect consumers who buy vehicles that don’t live up to the standards promised under the warranty. A “lemon” is another word for a defective car. California has extremely protective lemon laws for consumers. If your newly purchased car has been in the shop for repairs an unreasonable number of times, if it’s not the same quality as other similar vehicles, or if it has defects that make it unsafe to drive, Pyramid Legal can help you replace the car with a new one from the manufacturer or get a refund for your money.