What Questions to Ask During a Wrongful Death Review
Losing a loved one because of someone else’s carelessness is one of life’s most painful experiences. While no amount of money can replace what’s been lost, a wrongful death lawsuit can help bring justice and financial stability to surviving family members. At Harker Injury Law, we understand how overwhelming it can be to even think about hiring a lawyer after such a tragedy.
That’s why we offer a free consultation — a confidential meeting where families can ask questions, share their story, and learn what to expect from the legal process before making any commitments.
This first meeting is your opportunity to determine whether the attorney is the right fit for your case. The key is knowing which questions to ask.
Why a Free Consultation Matters
A free case consultation allows you to understand your options without financial pressure. Most wrongful death attorneys in California, including Harker Injury Law, work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless your lawyer successfully recovers compensation for you.
During this meeting, your legal professional will review:
- The details of the loved one’s death
- Who may be legally responsible
- The types of damages your family may be entitled to
- The strength of your potential case under California law
This consultation helps you make informed decisions about pursuing legal action — and it helps the attorney understand whether they can represent your case effectively.
What to Bring to Your Consultation
Before you meet with a wrongful death lawyer, gather as much information as possible. This includes:
- Police reports or accident reports related to the death
- Medical records and medical bills
- Death certificate and autopsy reports, if available
- Insurance information from any liable parties
- Employment records showing the deceased’s income and benefits
- Receipts for funeral and burial expenses
- Names and contact information for witnesses or medical professionals involved
These documents help the attorney evaluate your claim quickly and accurately during the initial consultation.
Questions to Ask Your Wrongful Death Attorney
The right questions can help you understand how an attorney works, what to expect, and whether you feel comfortable trusting them with your case. Here are the most important ones to ask during your free consultation:
1. How Much Experience Do You Have With Wrongful Death Cases?
Not all attorneys handle wrongful death cases regularly. Ask the lawyer about their track record with similar cases, including settlements and trial results.
An experienced wrongful death attorney should be able to discuss prior cases, describe how they handled challenges, and explain how those lessons apply to your situation.
At Harker Injury Law, our team has represented countless families across California in cases involving car crashes, medical malpractice, and other forms of negligence.
2. Who Will Handle My Case Personally?
Some law firms delegate cases to junior associates or paralegals after the initial meeting. Make sure you know whether the attorney you meet with will personally manage your case or if it will be assigned to another team member.
At Harker Injury Law, the attorney you meet during your consultation remains directly involved throughout the entire process. You’ll always know who to contact and what’s happening with your claim.
3. What Damages Can My Family Recover?
Every wrongful death claim is unique, but potential compensation often includes both economic and non-economic damages, such as:
- Medical bills and final hospital costs
- Lost income and financial support the deceased would have provided
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
- Emotional pain and mental anguish
Asking this question helps you understand the possible outcomes and ensures your attorney values all aspects of your family’s loss.
4. How Long Do We Have to File a Claim?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is generally two years from the date of death. Missing that deadline can prevent your family from pursuing compensation altogether.
An experienced attorney will explain any exceptions that may apply — for instance, if the death was caused by medical malpractice or if the liable party is a government agency.
5. How Do Contingency Fees Work?
Most wrongful death lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if your case is successful. Be sure to ask:
- What percentage of the recovery goes toward attorney fees?
- Are there any filing fees, expert witness costs, or other expenses?
- Will those costs come out of the final settlement?
At Harker Injury Law, we’re transparent about fees and explain exactly how costs are handled before we take any case. You’ll never pay upfront fees for representation.
6. How Do You Communicate With Clients?
Good communication builds trust. Ask how often the attorney will update you on your case and whether you’ll communicate primarily through phone calls, email, or meetings.
A law firm that prioritizes accessibility and compassion — like Harker Injury Law — will ensure you’re informed and comfortable at every stage of the legal process.
7. What Evidence Do We Need to Build a Strong Case?
A strong wrongful death case depends on evidence that proves someone else’s negligence caused your loved one’s death. Ask your lawyer about what types of evidence matter most, such as:
- Medical records
- Police reports
- Expert testimony from accident reconstructionists or doctors
- Employment and income records
- Proof of emotional pain and financial dependence
The attorney should also explain how they’ll gather evidence and whether they use expert witnesses to support complex claims.
8. What Are the Next Steps After the Consultation?
A qualified lawyer will outline what comes next if you decide to move forward. This typically includes:
- Signing a representation agreement
- Gathering evidence and contacting insurance companies
- Investigating the accident or incident
- Filing the wrongful death claim
- Beginning settlement negotiations or preparing for trial
At Harker Injury Law, we make sure families understand exactly what to expect after their free consultation — no surprises, no confusion.
What to Expect During the Consultation
A free wrongful death consultation is typically informal and compassionate. You’ll share your story, ask questions, and learn whether you have a case worth pursuing. You don’t need to have all the answers or documents — your attorney will help you gather what’s missing.
You can also expect the lawyer to ask you questions about:
- The cause of your loved one’s death
- Who was involved or potentially liable
- The financial and emotional impact on your family
- Whether there are insurance policies that might provide coverage
This conversation helps the attorney assess the situation and provide realistic expectations for potential compensation and next steps.
How to Know You’ve Found the Right Attorney
Choosing the right wrongful death lawyer is as much about trust as it is about skill. During your consultation, pay attention to how the attorney treats you and your story.
Ask yourself:
- Do they listen carefully and show empathy?
- Do they explain things clearly and honestly?
- Do they seem knowledgeable about California wrongful death cases?
- Do you feel confident they’ll fight for your family?
If you answer yes to these questions, you’ve likely found a legal team that aligns with your needs and values.
The Bottom Line
A free consultation is your first opportunity to understand your legal rights and take the first step toward justice after a wrongful death. Asking the right questions ensures you hire a lawyer who is not only experienced but also compassionate and committed to your family’s future.
At Harker Injury Law, we treat every client with care, respect, and dedication. We know the pain of losing a loved one can’t be measured — but we can help you seek fair compensation and hold those responsible accountable.
Call 760-INJURED today for a free consultation with an experienced California wrongful death attorney who will answer your questions, guide you through the process, and fight for the justice your family deserves.
