Reliable Long Beach Wrongful Death Lawyer

Compassionate Legal Representation for Families After a Tragic Loss

Losing a loved one is devastating under any circumstances, but when the loss occurs because of someone else’s carelessness or recklessness in California, the pain is even harder to bear. Families are often left with overwhelming emotional grief and unexpected financial burdens that no one should face alone.

At the Law Offices of Asher Hoffman, our Long Beach wrongful death lawyers stand with families who have lost a loved one in fatal accidents caused by negligence. We provide compassionate guidance and legal strength during one of the most difficult times of your life. Our goal is simple: to help you pursue justice, accountability, and the financial security your family deserves, starting with a free consultation.

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in California

A wrongful death claim arises when a person dies due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional acts of another. These claims allow surviving family members to recover compensation for the losses they suffer because of that death.

California’s Wrongful Death Statute (California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60) grants the right to file a claim to the deceased’s surviving spouse, domestic partner, children, or other dependents. The purpose is not to punish, but to provide stability and justice for those left behind after a death due to negligence.

Our Long Beach wrongful death attorneys help families navigate this complex process while ensuring they receive both the support and respect they deserve.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death

Wrongful deaths can occur in nearly any situation where negligence or wrongdoing leads to a fatal accident.

Some of the most common causes in the Long Beach area include:

• Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Crashes– High-traffic routes such as I-405, I-710, and Pacific Coast Highway see hundreds of severe collisions each year, many with fatal outcomes.
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Collisions– Busy city intersections and inadequate crosswalk visibility contribute to tragic pedestrian fatalities.
• Workplace and Construction Incidents– Third-party negligence at job sites can lead to deadly falls, equipment failures, or unsafe practices.
• Dangerous Premises– Property owners who fail to maintain safe conditions can be held responsible for fatal injuries.

Each case requires a thorough investigation to determine the cause of death, identify all liable parties, and prove negligence. Our Long Beach wrongful death lawyers take these steps with compassion and determination, knowing that closure and justice often begin with answers.

Proving Wrongful Death Liability

To recover compensation, your attorney must show that another party’s negligence or misconduct caused your loved one’s death.

Our Long Beach wrongful death attorneys build every case by establishing four critical elements:

1. Duty of Care– The responsible party owed the victim a duty to act reasonably or safely.
2. Breach of Duty– That duty was violated through carelessness, recklessness, or wrongdoing.
3. Causation– The breach directly caused the fatal injuries.
4. Damages– The surviving family members suffered measurable harm as a result.

We work with investigators, accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and financial experts to ensure your claim is supported by clear, compelling evidence.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

Under state law, the following individuals may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim:

• The deceased’s spouse or domestic partner.
• The deceased’s children.
• If there are no surviving children, the deceased’s parents, siblings, or other dependents may qualify.
• In some cases, stepchildren or other financial dependents** may also be included.

If you are unsure whether you qualify, our Long Beach wrongful death attorneys can review your circumstances and explain your rights during a free consultation.

Types of Damages in a California Wrongful Death Claim

A wrongful death settlement or verdict can never replace the life lost, but it can ease the financial pressures that often follow a tragedy.

Compensation may include both economic and non-economic damages, such as:

• Funeral and burial expenses.
• Loss of the deceased’s income and future financial support.
• Loss of household services.
• Loss of companionship, love, and emotional support.
• Emotional distress and grief suffered by surviving family members.
• Medical bills related to the final injury or illness.

Our Long Beach wrongful death lawyers carefully calculate the full scope of your losses to pursue a result that truly reflects the impact of your loss.

Wrongful Death and Survival Actions

In addition to a wrongful death claim, California law allows certain estates to file a survival action under Code of Civil Procedure § 377.30.

This claim allows the deceased’s estate to recover damages the individual could have pursued had they survived, such as:

• Medical expenses incurred before death.
• Lost wages between the injury and death.
• Property damage.
• Pain and suffering experienced before passing (for deaths occurring after January 1, 2022, due to an update in California law).

Our Long Beach wrongful death attorneys often file both claims simultaneously to ensure families recover every available form of compensation.

Local Fatal Accident Statistics in Long Beach

Long Beach continues to experience a high rate of serious and fatal crashes compared to other California cities.

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, the city recorded:

• 51 traffic fatalities in a single recent year, with nearly half involving pedestrians or bicyclists.
• Over 1,500 injury crashes, many resulting in catastrophic harm.
• A significant rise in fatal accidents involving alcohol and distracted driving.

In addition, data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that workplace fatalities in Los Angeles County average more than 100 per year, often in construction, transportation, and warehousing sectors.

Behind every statistic is a family whose world has been changed forever. Our Long Beach wrongful death attorneys approach every case with that reality in mind.

Establishing the Value of a Wrongful Death Case

Every wrongful death case is unique. The value depends on several factors, including the decedent’s age, income, and health, as well as the extent of emotional and financial losses to surviving family members.

Our Long Beach wrongful death lawyers collaborate with financial experts and economists to document long-term damages, such as:

• Lost lifetime earnings and benefits.
• Future contributions to household income or caregiving.
• The psychological impact of losing a loved one.
• The loss of mentorship and parental guidance for surviving children.

We present this evidence to insurers or in court to achieve a settlement or verdict that provides real relief and stability for your family.

Time Limits for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is typically two years from the date of death. However, exceptions exist for cases involving public entities or delayed discovery of negligence.

Because time-sensitive evidence—such as vehicle data, witness statements, or surveillance footage—can quickly disappear, it is essential to speak with a Long Beach wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. Early legal action ensures your claim is preserved and supported by strong documentation.

What To Do After Losing a Loved One in a Fatal Accident

The days and weeks following a fatal accident are often overwhelming.

Taking specific steps can help protect your family’s rights and strengthen your case:

1. Obtain official records, such as the death certificate and police or incident report.
2. Document expenses, including medical bills and funeral costs.
3. Avoid discussing the case with insurance adjusters or signing documents without legal advice.
4. Preserve evidence, including photos, correspondence, and relevant communications.
5. Contact our Long Beach wrongful death lawyer as early as possible for guidance.

Our firm can handle the legal and insurance details so you can focus on grieving, healing, and honoring your loved one’s memory.

Wrongful Death and Criminal Proceedings

A wrongful death case is civil, not criminal. This means it can proceed even if no criminal charges are filed, or if the defendant was acquitted in criminal court. The standard of proof in a civil case is lower—“preponderance of the evidence”—which allows families to hold negligent parties accountable even when prosecutors cannot.

Our Long Beach wrongful death attorneys often work alongside families during ongoing criminal investigations to ensure that the civil claim is protected and aligned with the available evidence.

How The Law Offices of Asher Hoffman Can Help

At the Law Offices of Asher Hoffman, we understand that no amount of money can replace the person you have lost. However, pursuing justice through a wrongful death claim can provide both closure and financial stability.

Founding attorney Asher Hoffman brings both personal empathy and professional strength to every case. Having undergone significant medical recovery himself, he understands what families face when life is suddenly altered by tragedy. That compassion, paired with his courtroom experience, allows our firm to handle each case with care, dignity, and determination.

Families who work with our firm can expect:

• Direct Access to an Attorney: You will communicate personally with your lawyer throughout the process.
• Comprehensive Investigation: We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to build a strong case.
• Clear, Honest Guidance: We explain your rights, options, and expected timelines at every stage.
• No Fees Unless We Win: Our representation is provided on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront.
• Respectful, Compassionate Advocacy: We treat every family with empathy and integrity.

Our Long Beach wrongful death lawyers serve families throughout Los Angeles County and across California with one goal: to help you rebuild your future after loss.

We Also Focus on the Following Areas:

• Car Accident
• Motorcycle Accident
• Truck Accident
• Slip and Fall Accident
• Workplace Accident
• Dog Bite Injury
• Pedestrian Accident
• Uber, Lyft, and Rideshare Accident

Contact Our Long Beach Wrongful Death Lawyers Today

If another person’s negligence or wrongdoing caused your loved one’s death, you have the right to seek justice and accountability. The Law Offices of Asher Hoffman are here to help your family through every step of the legal process.

Call us today at (877) 792-4529 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation. Speak directly with a Los Angeles County wrongful death attorney who will listen, guide, and fight for the justice your family deserves.