Articles
Wrongful Death Law Articles
Free articles from wrongful death lawyer Rich Harris. Every one has a free PDF download, no email required, and many have a short video version.
You Have Been Named a Nominal Defendant in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Being named a defendant in a wrongful death case about your own loved one is not an accusation. This article explains the one action rule, how the money is divided, and why a nominal defendant needs independent counsel.
What a California Wrongful Death Claim Pays For, and What It Does Not
What a California wrongful death claim pays for: lost love and companionship, financial support, household services and funeral costs, what a jury may not award, and what the survival claim adds.
Suicide: When Others Are to Blame Under California Law
When a suicide follows bullying, abuse, harassment or neglect in custody, others may be responsible. This article explains when California law allows a wrongful death claim, and where it draws its limits.
Settling a Loved One’s Property After a Wrongful Death in California
Most property can pass without a full probate if the family uses the right procedure. This article explains the current small estate limits, the debt traps, and why wrongful death money stays separate from the estate.
Who Pays for the Funeral When Someone Else Caused the Death
The person or company that caused the death should pay for the funeral. This article explains how funeral costs are recovered, the sources that may pay sooner, and the release families should not sign.
Should There Be an Autopsy? A California Family’s Decision After a Wrongful Death
The coroner does not autopsy every death. This article explains when an autopsy is done, how a family can demand one or hire a private pathologist, and why the decision matters to a wrongful death case.
When a Child Loses a Parent: The Wrongful Death Claims of Minor Children
A child who loses a parent has a wrongful death claim of their own, and a judge must approve any settlement. This article explains the process, fees, and how structured settlements can pay a child from 18 into their 30s.
How a California Wrongful Death Recovery Is Divided Among the Heirs
Every heir shares one wrongful death recovery. This article explains how California divides it by each heir’s loss, how families can agree before settlement talks, and what happens when a judge must decide.
California Pedestrian Deaths: Why “Jaywalking” Does Not End the Family’s Wrongful Death Case
When a pedestrian is killed, the insurer often calls it jaywalking. This article explains unmarked crosswalks, the 2023 change in the law, the driver’s duty of care and the evidence families should preserve.
Vehicular Manslaughter
Vehicular manslaughter criminal proceedings can have a profound impact on the collection of restitution and civil damages. This article explains the many issues wrongful death heirs should consider when bringing a claim.
Fatal Work Injuries
Work related deaths occur far too often. Wrongful death heirs are often entitled to more than just workers' compensation benefits. This article provides insight as to how wrongful death heirs can recover for all the financial and personal losses they incur.
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