California Wrongful Death Lawyers
Over 60 Years Combined Experience
- 500M+ Recovered for Clients
- No Win, No Fee
- Free Consultations Available 24/7
Speak With a Wrongful Death Attorney
We understand this is a difficult time. If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, our team is here to listen, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.
There is no obligation, and everything you share is confidential.
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Financial Future Protection
Guidance At Every Step
Answers, Accountability, and Justice
Wrongful Death Case Results
$4.3M
Settlement
Wrongful Death — Motorcycle Collision
$18M
Verdict
Wrongful Death — Pedestrian Collision
$5.5M
Verdict
Wrongful Death — Motor Vehicle Collision
After a Wrongful Death, You’re Facing More Than Just Grief
Financial Pressure
- Funeral and Burial Expenses
- Hospital Bills
- Loss of Financial Support
Legal Uncertainty
- Not Knowing Your Rights
- Hiring the Wrong Lawyer
- Legal Costs
- Stress of Navigating the Legal System
Emotional Stress
- Emotional Distress
- Loss of Companionship
- Loss of Parental Guidance
You Don't Have to Fight These Battles Alone
What Sets Us Apart in California Wrongful Death Cases
At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, our work is focused on helping families who have lost someone in a vehicle-related wrongful death. That focus allows our wrongful death attorneys to handle each case with care, experience, and a thoughtful strategy centered on protecting your family’s rights.
Proven Results in Wrongful Death Cases
- Successful outcomes in complex and high-stakes wrongful death claims
- Millions recovered for surviving spouses, children, and families
- Experience litigating against insurers, corporations, and public entities
- Trial-ready attorneys when fair settlement is refused
Personal, Compassionate Representation
- Direct support by experienced attorneys
- Clear, honest updates throughout the process
- Respect for your family’s grief, privacy, and timeline
- Advocacy that honors your loved one’s life and legacy
No Financial Burden During a Difficult Time
- No upfront costs or out-of-pocket expenses
- All case costs advanced by our firm
- You owe nothing unless compensation is recovered
- Contingency representation designed to reduce stress, not add to it
Support When You Need It Most
- Free, confidential consultations
- Available to meet at your home or another convenient location
- English and Spanish-speaking staff
- Guidance through legal, financial, and practical next steps
We understand this is not just a legal matter—it’s a deeply personal loss. Our role is to shoulder the legal burden so your family can focus on healing.
We Serve All of California
Client Reviews
EXCELLENT Based on 184 reviews Posted on Google Michael SongJuly 6, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have consulted with ER Trial Lawyers staff on various occassions and have always received expert advice. Their staff has always provided sound background information and pointed me in the right direction. One injury issue I had, they were immediately on it and had me videoconferencing with a physician within literally hours. I then came back on another issue, and although it was not in ER's scope, they referred me to an excellent firm which is now going better than expected. They have even asked me to keep them updated on the case, showing how they care. Thank you guys, you really make someone feel better in trying and emotional situations!Posted on Google MC BetronJune 17, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After experiencing two car accidents one year apart, there was no doubt in my mind about who to call. El Dabe Ritter did an amazing job with my first accident, so I immediately called them again when my wife and I were involved in a second one. I highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for a reliable, professional, and compassionate injury attorney. From day one, the team was supportive, honest, and kept us in the loop. It felt like having a trusted friend in our corner. They made a stressful situation so much easier to handle, and we are incredibly grateful for how it was settled.Posted on Google Cristina BetronJune 17, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. "Dealing with a car accident is incredibly stressful, but this firm made me feel heard and protected from start to finish. They are professional, compassionate, and truly look out for your best interests. The whole team was incredible throughout the process - they made sure I was taken care off and fought to get me the maximum compensation possible. I highly recommend them to anyone who needs a team they can actually trust. Thank you so much El Dabe Ritter!Posted on Google HENRY MENDOZAJune 16, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was in a designated bicycle lane on my way home from a bike ride when a car sideswiped me. I fell and had various injuries resulting from the bump. The car stopped and the driver started accusing me that it was my fault. A friend highly recommended El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers and I am glad that I got their services. Not only that it was determined that it was the car driver's fault by the Law firm and I also got the appropriate treatment from my injuries and was compensated from the insurance claim. I am happy that I got the services from El Dabe Ritter Lawyers!Posted on Google Guillermo BarriosJune 12, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently had the absolute pleasure of partnering with Alfredo Aguiniga and the team at Eldabe | Ritter Trial Lawyers for an urgent legal deposition requiring certified Tagalog interpretation. The professionalism, efficiency, and respect shown by Eldabe | Ritter Trial Lawyers truly stand out. We highly recommend Alfredo and this firm to anyone looking for a top-tier, dedicated legal team. We look forward to partnering with them again on future assignments!Posted on Google Marie GuillenJune 7, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers provided exceptional support during a challenging time when a vehicle hit my car on the passenger side. Their compassionate and skilled approach ensured that I understood every step of the process and allowed me to focus on recovery without any stress. I highly recommend El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers to anyone seeking a professional and experienced service.Posted on Google Berny Co-ReyesJune 5, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After my car accident, El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers handled everything, from insurance to paperwork. Since the driver was uninsured, Sherif worked professionally and ensured that he was held accountable. As a result, I received a great settlement. I highly recommend their services.Posted on Google Mike MillerJune 2, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot say enough good things about El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers and their entire team. After being injured in a motorcycle accident, I was facing a difficult and stressful situation, but from the very beginning they treated me with kindness, patience, and respect. They were also incredibly helpful in making sure I received the medical care I needed throughout my recovery. They always took the time to answer my questions, explain the process, and keep me informed every step of the way. I never felt ignored or left wondering what was happening with my case. Their professionalism, compassion, and dedication gave my family and me peace of mind during a challenging time. What impressed me most was how hard they fought on my behalf. They worked diligently to maximize my settlement and did not simply accept the first offer. Their persistence, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome resulted in a settlement that exceeded our expectations. I am incredibly grateful for everything they did for me and my family. I highly recommend El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers to anyone who needs attorneys who genuinely cares about their clients .A special thanks to Hope for her outstanding work, patience, compassion, and support throughout the entire process. Your help meant more to us than words can express.Posted on Google Alex PithMay 29, 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. El Dabe Trial Lawyers, thank you for being there,the staff is very friendly and helpful , quick to respond to calls Professional and attentive to the needs of the client I'm very thankful for them .thank you 🙏🙏🙏Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
Wrongful Death Claim Timeline
1. Free Consultation
2. Case Investigation & Strategy
3. Negotiation w/ Insurance Company
4. Compensation
What is the Deadline to File a Wrongful Death Claim?
California law gives you two years to file a wrongful death suit.
However, accidents involving government entities have just six months to file.
Government entities include:
- City
- County
- State
- Public transit
Missing the deadline can permanently prevent you from filing a claim in court, no matter how strong the case is. That’s why families are often encouraged to speak with a wrongful death attorney as early as they’re able, even while still grieving.
Common Questions About California Wrongful Death Cases
What types of compensation are available to surviving family members?
Economic Damages
- Lost future income and financial support
- Lost benefits (health insurance, pension, etc.)
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills from the accident
Non-Economic Damages
- Loss of love, companionship, and emotional support
- Loss of guidance and mentoring (especially for children)
- Loss of consortium (for surviving spouse)
- Loss of training and education
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
How much does it cost to hire your firm?
Nothing upfront. We work on contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case. No win, no fee.
How much is my case worth?
Every case is different. We’ll evaluate your losses, such as: medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and future damages to determine your case’s value.
Do I have to go to court?
In personal injury, about 96% of the cases settle out of court.
However, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial if needed.
Our trial-ready attorneys do not hand off your case to another unvetted attorney or law firm.
We got your back from start to victory.