It happened in West Hollywood. Actor Mike Heslin collapsed in a restaurant. According to a lawsuit filed by his husband, staff not only failed to administer CPR—they actively blocked others from helping. An AED machine was allegedly locked away. No emergency care was provided. Mike was 30 years old.
This tragedy has gone viral, not because of celebrity, but because so many people are wondering the same thing: How could this happen? And what can you do when someone you love dies because of someone else’s inaction?
If you’re asking that question in Pasadena or anywhere in California, you’re not alone. Families can seek answers through California law.. But first, you need to understand who can be held responsible—and how.
What counts as a wrongful death under California law?
In California, wrongful death is defined by Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60, which allows certain family members to file a civil lawsuit when a death is caused by the “wrongful act or neglect” of another.
That could be:
- A distracted driver running a red light
- A doctor failing to diagnose a life-threatening condition
- A workplace failing to provide proper safety equipment
- Or—as in the Heslin case—a business that chooses not to act when help is needed
The core question becomes this: Was there a duty to act, and was that duty violated?
If the answer is yes, you can file a lawsuit if someone’s negligence causes a death.
Who can file a wrongful death claim in California?
Not everyone has the legal standing to file, but California law prioritizes those closest to the person who died. Spouses, children, and sometimes parents or financial dependents are allowed to bring a claim. The law recognizes that these people bear not just the emotional loss—but often the financial impact as well.
And while a lawsuit can never bring someone back, it can ensure the responsible party is held accountable—and that your family isn’t left carrying the burden alone.
What damages are recoverable?
When we talk about compensation, it’s not about “placing a value” on a human life. It’s about acknowledging the loss—and forcing accountability.
You can recover compensation for.:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical bills related to the fatal injury or illness
- Lost income the person would have earned
- The loss of their love, care, and companionship
In rare but serious cases, punitive damages may also apply—especially when the conduct was reckless or intentional. You can see an example of this in our recent breakdown of the Tesla wrongful death lawsuit in California, where a tech failure combined with lack of human oversight raised serious questions about responsibility.
What is the deadline to file?
In most cases, California law gives you two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. But that timeline can be shorter if a government agency is involved. For example, if someone dies in a city-owned facility or due to public transportation negligence, you may only have six months to act.
Don’t wait: talk to a lawyer today. Even if you’re still grieving, even if you’re unsure, talk to someone who can guide you through it.
What should you do next?
The days after losing someone are a blur. You’re dealing with shock, arrangements, paperwork—and often, silence from those who may be responsible. But the clock is already ticking. It’s important to act fast before evidence disappears.
Start by gathering what you can: medical records, names of witnesses, emails or messages about the incident. Avoid signing anything from an insurance company without reviewing it with a lawyer. And most importantly, give yourself the grace to ask for help.
That’s what we’re here for.
Why a Pasadena wrongful death lawyer matters
These cases are never just legal. They’re personal. They’re about stories cut short and futures stolen. At Westside Injury Lawyers, we bring more than legal skill—we bring compassion, clarity, and determination.
We understand how Pasadena courts operate. We know which local experts to bring in. And we’ll make sure your voice is heard, whether in settlement or in front of a jury.
We’ve helped families just like yours. We can help yours too.
FAQ About Wrongful Death in California
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in California
How can I file a wrongful death claim in California after restaurant negligence?
Start by consulting a wrongful death lawyer who understands California negligence laws. They’ll assess duty of care, breach, causation, and damages.
Can I sue for wrongful death if my loved one died days after an accident?
Yes—if the death can be directly tied to injuries from the accident, you may still have a valid claim.
Is there a deadline for suing government entities for wrongful death in California?
Yes—typically six months from the date of death to file an administrative claim.
Can multiple family members file separate wrongful death lawsuits in California?
No. The law generally requires all eligible heirs to join a single wrongful death action.
Damages and Compensation
What compensation can family members recover in a California wrongful death case?
Compensation may include funeral costs, medical expenses, lost future income, and loss of companionship.
How do lawyers calculate the value of lost future income in wrongful death cases?
Attorneys use actuarial tables, expert testimony, and employment history to estimate earning potential.
Can I get punitive damages in a California wrongful death lawsuit?
Punitive damages are rare but may be awarded in cases involving intentional harm or extreme recklessness.
Legal Differences and Proof Requirements
How is wrongful death different from a survival action in California?
Wrongful death compensates surviving family; survival actions seek damages the decedent would have been entitled to, like pain and suffering before death.
What evidence is needed to prove wrongful death in California?
Medical records, witness statements, police reports, expert opinions, and proof of relationship to the decedent are crucial.
Should I accept a settlement offer in a wrongful death case before going to trial?
Only after careful legal review. A lawyer can help determine if the offer truly reflects the value of your claim.
📞 Get Support Now
You’ve suffered enough. You don’t have to fight this battle alone.
Call us today at (877) 834-1311 or schedule your free case consultation here:
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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For free case review of your situation, you can schedule a consultation HERE