Wrongful Death Attorney in San Gabriel, CA

Attorney Jonathon Perliss
Written By
Jonathon Perliss

Wrongful Death

Losing a loved one is always devastating, especially when their death was the result of someone else’s negligence. During such a painful time, legal action might be the last thing on your mind, but it can be an important step in seeking justice and financial security for your family.

At Perliss Law Firm, we understand the profound emotional toll of a wrongful death, and we’re here to help you pursue the compensation and closure you deserve. With over 30 years of legal experience throughout California, our team brings a calm, professional, and strategic approach to every case. We are proud to serve San Gabriel and the surrounding areas.

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Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in California

a photo of someone holding another person's hand.

A wrongful death claim allows the surviving family members of a deceased person to seek compensation when a death is caused by negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm. Common causes of wrongful death include:

Car accidents involving reckless or impaired drivers

Fatal workplace accidents

Medical malpractice

Defective products or equipment

Criminal acts such as assault or homicide

Unlike criminal cases, wrongful death lawsuits are civil matters—meaning they focus on monetary damages rather than criminal punishment.

At Perliss Law Firm, we build strong, evidence-backed cases to help you hold the responsible parties accountable. Our 30+ years of experience help us find vulnerabilities in even the smallest details, increasing your chances of maximum compensation.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Animal attacks are unexpected and often traumatic. If you or a loved one has experienced an animal attack in California,  seeking immediate medical attention is crucial.

Once you've done that, it’s critical to:

Report the incident to animal control or local authorities.

Document your injuries and gather witness contact information.

Avoid speaking to insurance companies without legal representation.

The sooner you contact a dog bite lawyer, the stronger your case will be. Time matters, especially when evidence and witness recollection can fade.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

a person holding another persons hands

Under California law, the right to file a wrongful death claim follows a specific hierarchy, as outlined in California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60. The order of priority generally includes:

The deceased person's surviving spouse or domestic partner

The children of the deceased

If there are no children, the issue of deceased children (i.e., grandchildren)

If none of the above exist, then those who would be entitled to the estate through intestate succession (e.g., parents, siblings, or others, depending on the family structure)

In certain cases, other financially dependent individuals may also qualify to file a claim. This could include:

A putative spouse and their children

Stepchildren of the deceased

Legal guardians (if they were dependent on the decedent)

The legal system can be especially intricate when multiple potential claimants are involved. Our team at Perliss Law Firm is here to clarify your eligibility and help you file the strongest claim possible.

We ensure your rights and the memory of your loved one are honored with dignity and dedication.

Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in California

Wrongful death claims are meant to help relieve the financial burden placed on a family after an untimely loss. Damages may include:

Funeral and burial expenses

Lost income and financial support that the deceased would have provided

Loss of companionship, care, and guidance

Medical bills related to the deceased’s final illness or injury

Every case is unique, and we take the time to fully understand your needs to pursue the maximum compensation available.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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Client Reviews

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Vincent R.
5 Stars

"I personally was recommended to Sanford Perliss. My situation was dire. After our first meeting I Immediately felt relieved, I knew I was in good hands. He handled the case diligently and with the utmost professionalism. I don't know where I would be without the help of this man.  Thank you Sandy, I will recommend you to anybody I know."

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Brian L.
5 Stars

"I can’t thank Perliss Law Firm enough for their outstanding representation. I felt confident I was in good hands from the moment I walked into their office. They explained every step of the process regarding my case and made sure I was fully informed about my options. Perliss Law Firm is professional and cares greatly about their clients. Highly recommend!"

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Jessica M.
5 Stars

"Perliss Law Firm’s attorneys are extremely experienced and skilled。 They treated me with respect and were always available to answer any questions I had. I am extremely grateful and would recommend their firm if you’re looking for a dedicated and trustworthy defense team."

Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in California

a man hugging his dad

Time is a critical factor in wrongful death claims. In California, you typically have two years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing this deadline could mean forfeiting your right to pursue compensation.

Exceptions may apply in cases involving medical malpractice or delayed discovery of the cause of death.

Understanding these timeframes is crucial. If you’re unsure whether you still have time to file, our team can assess your case and help you take timely legal action. At Perliss Law Firm, we handle the technical details of your claim so you can focus on your family and healing during this difficult time.

How We Investigate and Build Your Case

At Perliss Law Firm, we take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to every wrongful death case. Our process includes:

Collecting police reports, witness statements, and accident scene evidence

Collaborating with medical experts and forensic analysts

Calculating future income loss and non-economic damages

Handling all communication with insurance companies

Our goal is to relieve your legal burdens while maximizing your chances of a successful outcome.

Why Choose Perliss Law Firm

a lawyer in an office with a client

Choosing the right attorney after a wrongful death can make all the difference. At Perliss Law Firm, we offer:

Decades of Experience:

Over 30 years representing families across California.

Former Prosecutor Insight:

We understand both sides of the legal process.

Multi-Generational Firm:

Rooted in trust, reliability, and community connection.

Bilingual Legal Support:

Serving both English- and Mandarin-speaking clients.

Tailored Legal Strategies:

Each case receives a custom legal approach.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

Two people shaking hands.

If you’ve lost a loved one due to negligence or wrongdoing, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Contact Perliss Law Firm today to schedule your free consultation. We’re here to answer your questions, explain your rights, and help you determine the best path forward.

We proudly serve families in San Gabriel, Los Angeles County, Riverside County, and nearby communities.

Let us help you seek justice. Let us help you heal.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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Criminal Defense Law Firm Perliss Law Firm

Why Choose Us?

1
We are experts from both sides of the courtroom.
Former California Prosecutor Now Fighting For You.
2
Dedicated to the aggressive and zealous representation
Often able to achieve results that other lawyers cannot.
3
Generational trial law experience.
Trial lawyer of over 40 years.
4
Experienced lawyers and staff members
We have the means to help you with your criminal case, and keep you informed throughout the process.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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