South Orange County Wrongful Death Lawyers
Lost someone you love because of another’s negligence? Talk to Michael or Courtney Cefali directly, with no pressure and no cost. We handle the legal side so your family can focus on each other. We have recovered $30M+ for California families and injury victims, and you pay nothing unless we win.
- Compassionate, experienced representation for grieving families
- No fee unless we recover, with a 100% free consultation
- Speak directly with Michael or Courtney Cefali, Avvo 10.0 & Super Lawyers rated
Free Case Review
No cost · No obligation · 100% confidential
Real Attorneys Who Fight For You
Michael J. Cefali, Esq.
Trial attorney with a record of six- and seven-figure recoveries. Gives clients his direct line for personal, relentless representation.
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Courtney L.C. Cefali, Esq.
Partner and advocate for injured Californians, known for client-first communication and thorough, aggressive case-building.
View Attorney Profile →A Track Record Insurance Companies Respect
A sample of recoveries obtained in Michael Cefali’s career.
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Each case is evaluated on its own facts.
Why You Need a Wrongful Death Lawyer
When a death is caused by someone else’s negligence, the legal process should not fall on a grieving family. We carry that weight for you.
We Carry the Legal Burden
You focus on your family while we handle the investigation, the paperwork, and the responsible party. There is no pressure and no cost to talk.
We Know Who Can File
California law (Code of Civil Procedure 377.60) sets an order: spouse or domestic partner and children first, then others who would inherit. We help you understand where your family stands.
We Prove Fault and Causation
Whether the death came from a crash, a dangerous property, a defective product, or a criminal act, we gather the evidence and establish exactly what happened.
We Pursue Full Compensation
A claim can cover lost financial support, funeral and burial costs, and the loss of your loved one’s love, companionship, and guidance.
How We Help, Step by Step
A Private Conversation
Call or send the form when you are ready. A partner listens, answers your questions, and tells you honestly where your family stands, at no cost.
We Carry the Case
We investigate, deal with the insurer and the responsible party, and keep you informed, with no out-of-pocket cost to your family.
Your Family Is Compensated
We pursue the full value of lost support, funeral costs, and the loss of your loved one, and we are paid only when you are.
Real Clients. Real Outcomes.
“Before I knew it, everything was handled: paperwork, doctors’ appointments, legal corridors. He was truly my guardian angel and I recommend him highly.”
“A real down-to-earth man that I appreciate for going the extra mile to prevail in my case. To those good people who truly need support, consult with him.”
What South OC families ask us
Who can file a wrongful death claim in California?
Usually the surviving spouse or domestic partner and children first, and if there are none, those who would inherit under California’s succession rules, such as parents or siblings. Certain financial dependents may also qualify.
How long do we have to file?
Most California wrongful death claims have a two-year deadline from the date of death, and it can be shorter when a government entity is involved. There is no rush to decide today, but it helps to know the timeline.
What damages can we recover?
The financial support your loved one would have provided, funeral and burial costs, and the loss of their love, companionship, and guidance.
Do we need a lawyer to file?
These claims involve strict rules about who can file and what must be proven. A lawyer protects your family and lets you focus on grieving while we handle the case.
What if the death was caused by a criminal act?
You can still bring a civil wrongful death claim, separate from any criminal case, when a death was caused by an assault or other intentional wrongdoing.
You Should Not Have to Face This Alone.
When you are ready, a partner will talk with you personally, at no cost and with no pressure. We handle the legal side so your family can focus on each other.