Wrongful Acts and Wrongful Death: What They Mean and What You Can Do About It in California
In California, wrongful acts and wrongful death are two separate legal concepts that both have legal consequences.
A wrongful act refers to any unlawful or unauthorized act or omission that results in harm to another person. This action (or inaction) may also be a product of the at-fault party’s negligence. Wrongful acts in California can include anything from intentional wrongdoing, negligence, or even an accident. If a person commits a “wrongful act,” they may be responsible for damages that result from it.
Wrongful death is a legal term used to describe the death of someone as a result of another person’s actions or negligence. This can include anything from reckless driving to medical malpractice to intentional homicide. In most cases, wrongful death lawsuits are filed by the family of the deceased victim against the person or company responsible for the death.
Some factors that courts may consider when deciding whether a death was caused by someone else’s fault include:
- Whether the victim was injured accidentally.
- Whether there was sufficient evidence that suggests foul play was involved.
- Whether there were warning signs that could have been known about and avoided.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a wrongful act or wrongful death, there are steps you can take to seek redress. For assistance, the California wrongful death attorneys at Marie & Deedon can help.
Can Someone Be Held Liable for a Wrongful Act Even if They Did Not Actually Commit It?
The law holds individuals accountable for their wrongful actions, even if they did not commit the actual act. This principle is called “legal responsibility.” In order to hold someone liable for their wrongful actions, however, the court must find that the person had the ability to commit the act and knew of or should have known of the possibility that their action might cause injury. The person must also have acted negligently or with malice or intent to do harm.
Can Someone Be Held Liable for a Wrongful Death Even if They Did Not Actually Commit It?
In a wrongful death case, the person who caused the death may be held liable even if they did not actually commit the act that resulted in the death. In this case, courts look at a number of factors to determine what penalties might be appropriate, including whether they knew of or should have known of the risk that their actions would lead to someone’s death, and whether they took any steps to prevent it.
How Can You Seek Compensation for a Wrongful Act or a Wrongful Death in California?
Wrongful actions and wrongful deaths can have a significant impact on individuals, families, and businesses. If you (or someone you know) believe that you have been the victim of wrongful conduct, it is important to speak to a Northern California personal injury attorney at Maire & Deedon for more information on your legal options.
Our attorneys can help you get compensation. This compensation can come in the form of money, time off work, or various other forms of relief.