California law is specific about who can bring a lawsuit. Generally, the first group with standing to sue includes: or domestic partners. Children of the deceased. Issue of deceased children (grandchildren).

While no amount of money can replace a family member, financial recovery is designed to ease the burden of their absence. Families can seek:

In California, while there is no cap on most wrongful death damages, there are specific limits for medical malpractice cases. As of 2023, the cap on non-economic damages for wrongful death in medical malpractice started at $500,000 and increases annually by $50,000 until it reaches $1 million. Critical Timelines and Next Steps