--- title: "California Wrongful Death Lawyers | Sam & Ash" date_published: "2025-04-07" date_modified: "2026-06-26" permalink: "https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/wrongful-death/" seo: title: "California Wrongful Death Lawyers | Sam & Ash" description: "Lost a loved one due to negligence in California? Sam & Ash provide compassionate legal support. Contact us today for a free wrongful death consultation." canonical_url: "https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/wrongful-death/" --- ![broken yellow hard hat](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/AdobeStock_280037764-980x551.jpeg) California # Wrongful Death Lawyers When you've been hurt or a loved one has been hurt/passed away in a wrongful death accident, choose Sam & Ash Injury Law - California's trusted legal team. We fight relentlessly for 'What's Right,' and provide caring, approachable counsel, available 24/7 to support you. ## Get a Free Case Review ### Award-Winning Attorneys ![Recognized as a leading law firm, embodying trust, advocacy, and commitment to clients.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-01.png) Logo 1 ![A prestigious emblem symbolizing commitment to justice and advocacy for personal injury clients.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-02.png) Logo 2 ![Professional seal symbolizing excellence in legal advocacy and commitment to client justice.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-03.png) Logo 3 ![Recognized excellence in advocacy, symbolizing commitment to personal injury justice and client care.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-04.png) Logo 4 ![Celebrating excellence in advocacy, this emblem highlights top legal talent dedicated to justice.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-05.png) Logo 5 ![Symbol of trusted advocacy, showcasing commitment to client rights and professional integrity.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa.png) Logo 6 ![The Nevada Justice Association emblem symbolizes strong advocacy and commitment to personal injury rights.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-07.png) Logo 7 ![A trusted symbol of advocacy and expertise, reflecting commitment to client care and justice.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-08.png) Logo 8 ![Recognized as a top law firm, showcasing commitment to client advocacy and professional excellence.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-09.png) Logo 9 ![A supportive environment reflecting trust and commitment to client advocacy and care.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-10.png) Logo 10 ![Award recognition highlights commitment to client advocacy and excellence in personal injury law.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-11.png) Logo 11 ![Recognized for excellence, this award signifies trusted advocacy and commitment to client care.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/8.png) Logo 12 ![Symbol of legal excellence, reflecting commitment to advocacy and client care in personal injury law.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-13.png) Logo 13 ![Trusted accreditation symbol reflects our commitment to integrity and client advocacy.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-14.png) Logo 14 ![Awarded recognition underscores our commitment to personal injury advocacy and client care.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-15.png) Logo 15 ![Recognized for excellence, this badge highlights Ashley M. Watkins as a committed advocate in personal injury law.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-16.png) Logo 16 ![Recognized for excellence, this badge reflects dedication and expertise in personal injury advocacy.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-17.png) Logo 17 ![Trusted recognition from Super Lawyers, highlighting our commitment to exceptional legal advocacy.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-18.png) Logo 18 ![Recognized by Super Lawyers, this badge reflects our commitment to excellence in personal injury advocacy.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-19.png) Logo 19 ![Recognized for excellence, showcasing commitment to client advocacy and trusted legal expertise.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-20.png) Logo 20 ![Recognized for excellence, this badge reflects dedication to client advocacy and legal expertise.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-21.png) Logo 21 ![Recognized as a leading law firm, embodying trust, advocacy, and commitment to clients.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-01.png) Logo 1 ![A prestigious emblem symbolizing commitment to justice and advocacy for personal injury clients.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-02.png) Logo 2 ![Professional seal symbolizing excellence in legal advocacy and commitment to client justice.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-03.png) Logo 3 ![Recognized excellence in advocacy, symbolizing commitment to personal injury justice and client care.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-04.png) Logo 4 ![Celebrating excellence in advocacy, this emblem highlights top legal talent dedicated to justice.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-05.png) Logo 5 ![Symbol of trusted advocacy, showcasing commitment to client rights and professional integrity.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa.png) Logo 6 ![The Nevada Justice Association emblem symbolizes strong advocacy and commitment to personal injury rights.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-07.png) Logo 7 ![A trusted symbol of advocacy and expertise, reflecting commitment to client care and justice.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-08.png) Logo 8 ![Recognized as a top law firm, showcasing commitment to client advocacy and professional excellence.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-09.png) Logo 9 ![A supportive environment reflecting trust and commitment to client advocacy and care.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-10.png) Logo 10 ![Award recognition highlights commitment to client advocacy and excellence in personal injury law.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-11.png) Logo 11 ![Recognized for excellence, this award signifies trusted advocacy and commitment to client care.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/8.png) Logo 12 ![Symbol of legal excellence, reflecting commitment to advocacy and client care in personal injury law.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-13.png) Logo 13 ![Trusted accreditation symbol reflects our commitment to integrity and client advocacy.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-14.png) Logo 14 ![Awarded recognition underscores our commitment to personal injury advocacy and client care.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-15.png) Logo 15 ![Recognized for excellence, this badge highlights Ashley M. Watkins as a committed advocate in personal injury law.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-16.png) Logo 16 ![Recognized for excellence, this badge reflects dedication and expertise in personal injury advocacy.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-17.png) Logo 17 ![Trusted recognition from Super Lawyers, highlighting our commitment to exceptional legal advocacy.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-18.png) Logo 18 ![Recognized by Super Lawyers, this badge reflects our commitment to excellence in personal injury advocacy.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-19.png) Logo 19 ![Recognized for excellence, showcasing commitment to client advocacy and trusted legal expertise.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-20.png) Logo 20 ![Recognized for excellence, this badge reflects dedication to client advocacy and legal expertise.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/awards-sa-21.png) Logo 21 ## Our Clients Win More ### $500MM Recovered for accident victims across Nevada and California ### 24/7 Availability to answer your questions & offer a free case review ### 16+ Practice areas handled by our experienced legal team ### 98% Success rate for clients we represent in personal injury claims [View All Results](https://samandashlaw.com/about/results/) ## No Fees Until YOU Win [View All](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sam+%26+Ash+Injury+Law/@33.6100963,-117.8890602,872m/data=!3m3!1e3!4b1!5s0x80dce00b9082c9ad:0x935f8334dd6ca62a!4m6!3m5!1s0x80dcdf9f346a2b11:0x9d2de28d18151b3!8m2!3d33.6100963!4d-117.8890602!16s%2Fg%2F11r12cl40w?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) ![A confident individual shares their story in a welcoming office, embodying resilience and strength.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/SA_person2-500x281.png) [Watch Video](https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/8MmbCM'BvUY?feature=oembed&enablejsapi=1&modestbranding=1&rel=0&origin=https://samandashlaw.com&autoplay=1) I spoke with Ian ( lead attorney ) this morning about a possible case. Although my case wasn't strong, he literally took an hour to discuss and give law based facts as to how a case works and why my case would be a challenge. Ian is a true gentleman and has an approach that is unmatched! If you have a possible case do yourself a favor and reach out to him... it will be the most honest answer you can get during a tough situation. Good Luck with your journey!! DCM California ![Google Logo](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/themes/samandashlaw/public/images/google_logo.webp) ![A compassionate attorney engages thoughtfully, exuding confidence in a professional setting.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/SA_person1-500x281.png) [Watch Video](https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/cANZ6E4P8Pw?feature=oembed&enablejsapi=1&modestbranding=1&rel=0&origin=https://samandashlaw.com&autoplay=1) I got rear-ended in the In-N-Out drive thru. It wasn't a very high speed accident. But by the time I got home I could barely stand up. My back has been a little fragile ever since the military and the impact of that minor accident did a number on me.âThe damage to my car was only $500 (tough Jeep bumper). Luckily, I knew not to trust the insurance company and that they would use the minor damage to screw me over.âI called Sam & Ash on a weekend and was immediately guided what to do and taken care of.âNot only would I have got a worse result (and probably not recovered fully), but it would have been so much MORE DIFFICULT if I did it on my own. Instead, they handled literally everything except going to my appointments. When the chiro stopped giving me progress, they helped me find a physical therapist. My result? I'm pretty close to 100% recovered and they put close to 10k in my pocket (even after medical bills). Incredible. I don't think I could have got a few hundred in my pocket on my own. Robert H California ![Google Logo](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/themes/samandashlaw/public/images/google_logo.webp) ![A confident individual smiles warmly, embodying support and resilience in a professional setting.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/JANICE-500x281.png) [Watch Video](https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/sqQvd0ZVSYc?feature=oembed&enablejsapi=1&modestbranding=1&rel=0&origin=https://samandashlaw.com&autoplay=1) Sam & Ash Injury Law is one of the best law firms I worked with. I highly recommend them to anyone that needs help and support with their case. The caseworkers are nice and they care. Kayla called and checked on me and sent me flowers when my grandmother passed away as I was still working through the difficulties of my injury. Please give them a call and check them out. Best experience Kayla Wheeler California ![Google Logo](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/themes/samandashlaw/public/images/google_logo.webp) ![A confident attorney in a suit conveys trust and professionalism, ready to advocate for clients.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/DAREN-500x281.png) [Watch Video](https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/sCFTOQFjR6A?feature=oembed&enablejsapi=1&modestbranding=1&rel=0&origin=https://samandashlaw.com&autoplay=1) The best lawyer that we chosen because Sam & Ash Injury Law Firm always contact you. They do not ignore you and call you on by email, post mail and phone call. I would say everything choose best lawyer which located in Newport beach, Ca. Always choose Sam & Ash Law Firm. The staff explain every detail of the meaning if you do not understand the law like myself and kind staff. You will not regret it. JOHN SMITH California ![Google Logo](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/themes/samandashlaw/public/images/google_logo.webp) ![A confident, caring individual exudes warmth, reflecting advocacy and support in a professional setting.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/LYNNE-1-500x281.png) [Watch Video](https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/YSGnbmsIlZQ?feature=oembed&enablejsapi=1&modestbranding=1&rel=0&origin=https://samandashlaw.com&autoplay=1) Ian McTaggart, managing partner of Sam & Ash LLP, is an excellent lawyer. I was very satisfied with his knowledge, professionalism and candor. Plus, he quickly returned my phone calls, was easily available and gave me expert advice on a rather tricky case. I highly recommend Ian, and Sam & Ash LLP, to anyone in Southern California seeking personal injury representation. Dan Wessel California ![Google Logo](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/themes/samandashlaw/public/images/google_logo.webp) ![A lawyer attentively discusses a case with a client, fostering trust and understanding.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/AdobeStock_241496938.jpeg) ## We're Here To Help We understand that after losing a loved one, the last thing you want to worry about is legal matters. You're focused on grieving, not fighting with insurance companies or handling paperwork. But insurance companies don't always play fair, and you shouldn't have to face them alone. We'll take care of every part of your wrongful death case so you can focus on grieving. Call us anytime to talk about your options. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start helping. [get a free consultation](#spu-3576) ## Filing A Wrongful Death Claim A wrongful death occurs when someone's negligent, reckless, or intentional actions lead to another person's death. In California, you typically have two years from the date of death to file a claim. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to compensation. Those eligible to file include the deceased's estate representative, immediate family members (such as a spouse, children, or parents), and anyone who relied on the deceased for financial support. A California wrongful death attorney can handle communications with insurance companies, explain your rights, gather evidence, build a strong case, negotiate for a full settlement, and take the case to court if necessary. ![A weathered cap rests on a table, symbolizing resilience in challenging times.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/AdobeStock_968814262-1024x683.jpeg) ![A contemplative moment reflects resilience and the journey toward healing and support.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/woman-emotional-distress-1024x683.jpg) ## What To Do After Take the steps below if a loved one has experienced a wrongful death: ### Call 911 Responders will secure the area, control the situation, and prepare an official report, ensuring proper documentation for any necessary follow-up. ### Save All Evidence Take photo and video of the scene. Store reports, important items, and any records securely so nothing useful to your case is lost or misplaced. ### Seek Medical Attention A prompt exam can uncover unseen injuries and create important documentation for your claim ### Follow Your Doctor's Instructions Attend all follow-up appointments, complete recommended treatments, and participate in any necessary therapies. ### Report the Accident If the incident occurred in public, notify nearby people, business owners, or file an incident report. ### Contact a Lawyer Do not wait to get the legal advice you need. We can start investigating the accident, preserving evidence, and protecting you from day one. ### Journal Record detailed notes about how the accident occurred and track symptoms, treatments, and recollections related to your recovery process. ### Limit Social Media Refrain from posting about your incident-anything posted online could impact your claim. ## What Damages Can I Recover In A Wrongful Death Action? When you partner with Sam & Ash Injury Law, we will review your case and explain what compensation may be available. In some cases, punitive damages may also apply if the death was caused by especially reckless or harmful behavior. Possible compensation includes: The cost of medical care that the deceased needed Income that is lost because of someone's passing The loss of support and companionship Final expenses for the deceased Loss of benefits suffered by wrongful death beneficiaries in California ![A professional handshake signifies trust and commitment in a legal consultation setting.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/AdobeStock_500952555-3-1024x683.jpeg) ## Common Causes Of Wrongful Death [Car Accidents](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/car-accident/) [Truck Accidents](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/truck-accident/) [Uber/Lyft Accidents](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/uber-lyft-accidents/) [Taxi Accidents](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/car-accident/) [Bicycle Accidents](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/bicycle-accident/) [Motorcycle Accidents](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/motorcycle-accident/) [Pedestrian Accidents](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/pedestrian-accident/) [Boating Accidents](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/boating-accident/) [Unsafe Properties and Buildings](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/premises-liability/) [Negligent Security](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/premises-liability/) [Swimming Pool Accidents](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/premises-liability/) [Slip & Fall Accidents](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/slip-fall/) [Dog Bites](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/dog-bite/) [Elder Abuse & Neglect](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/elder-abuse-and-neglect/) [Dangerous Products](https://samandashlaw.com/practice-areas/california/product-liability/) ## You May Be Entitled To Maximum Compensation Take this 60-second quiz to get started: "*" indicates required fields ## Insights & Resources ![](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/boat-speeding-through-water-on-a-summer-day-2026-01-08-07-53-51-utc-740x416.jpg) Blog Jun 26th, 2026 ## Summer Boating Safety, Owner Responsibility & Insurance Requirements in Nevada and California [Read More](https://samandashlaw.com/resources/summer-boating-safety-owner-responsibility-insurance-requirements-in-nevada-and-california/) ![A damaged truck in a parking area reflects the seriousness of personal injury cases.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/AdobeStock_417991002-740x416.jpeg) Blog Jun 25th, 2026 ## Semis, Box Trucks, Amazon Vans & More: Truck Accidents in California & Nevada - Your Rights, the Law, and How to Protect Yourself [Read More](https://samandashlaw.com/resources/truck-accidents-in-california-nevada-your-rights-the-law-and-how-to-protect-yourself/) ![A confident professional holds a branded mug, embodying care and advocacy in a welcoming environment.](https://samandashlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SAMASH-10-9-2020-CARD1.2-164-740x416.jpg) Blog Jun 23rd, 2026 ## Lowball to Justice: What 131 Real California Cases Reveal About Fighting the First Offer [Read More](https://samandashlaw.com/resources/lowball-to-justice-what-131-real-california-cases-reveal-about-fighting-the-first-offer/) [View More](https://samandashlaw.com/resources/?fc=blog)