Wrongful Death Lawyer in Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, and the Bay Area

Lost a Loved One? Get a Lawyer Who Fights for Your Family.

Wrongful death cases are different. The grief is deeper. The questions are harder. And the stakes couldn’t be higher. Too often, families are left with silence instead of answers—and insurance companies that put profits ahead of accountability. At Applegate Law Office, we don’t let that stand.


We represent families across Santa Rosa and Sonoma County with compassion, strategy, and over 20 years of proven personal injury litigation experience. Attorney Charles Applegate helps survivors seek justice, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure the compensation their loved one can no longer fight for. No upfront cost. No fee unless we win. Just dedicated legal support from a trusted Santa Rosa wrongful death lawyer.

Wrongful Death Cases We Handle

Whether the loss resulted from a tragic traffic collision, workplace accident, or another act of negligence, we’re here to help. We represent families in:

Fatal Vehicle Collisions

Car, truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian crashes remain among the leading causes of wrongful death. We help families seek justice against negligent drivers and commercial carriers.

Drunk or Impaired Driving Accidents

When a driver’s reckless decision to drive intoxicated leads to loss of life, our firm pursues full accountability and compensation for the family left behind.

Workplace and Construction Site Accidents

Unsafe job sites, lack of safety protocols, or defective equipment can turn everyday work into tragedy. We stand with families to hold employers and contractors responsible.

Medical Malpractice and Negligent Care

Fatal medical errors, misdiagnoses, or surgical mistakes can leave families searching for answers. We investigate to uncover the truth and demand justice for preventable deaths.

Dangerous or Defective Products

From vehicle defects to unsafe consumer products, we pursue claims against manufacturers whose negligence results in fatal harm.

Unsafe Property and Premises Liability

When unsafe property conditions—such as poor security, fire hazards, or structural failures—cause a death, property owners may be held legally liable.

How We Handle Your Wrongful Death Case

Every case we take begins with compassion—and proceeds with purpose.

01

Free Case Review

We listen to your story, understand what happened, and explain your legal options with clarity and compassion.

02

Comprehensive Investigation

We gather every piece of evidence—police reports, witness statements, medical and autopsy records, expert analyses, and accident reconstruction—to uncover the full truth behind your loved one’s death.

03

Insurance & Defendant Negotiation

We handle all communications with insurance companies, corporations, or negligent parties, pursuing full and fair compensation for your family’s loss—not just what they’re willing to offer.

04

Trial-Ready Representation

If justice isn’t served through settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court. Every wrongful death claim is built from day one as if it will go to trial—because that’s how we earn respect and results.

What Should I Do After a Wrongful Death in Santa Rosa?

01

Ensure immediate safety and care

02

Request official documentation

03

Avoid detailed statements to insurers or other parties

04

Contact a Santa Rosa wrongful death attorney

Why Families Choose Applegate Law for Wrongful Death Cases

Direct access to your attorney

You’ll work directly with Charles Applegate throughout your case — not be passed off to assistants or support staff. We believe personal connection builds trust and stronger results.


Over 20 years of experience

With decades of trial and negotiation experience, we’ve handled some of the toughest personal injury and wrongful death cases in Santa Rosa and across Sonoma County.


No fee unless we win

Our representation is contingency-based. That means no upfront costs — and no legal fees at all unless we successfully recover compensation for your family.


Proven local reputation

We’re proud to be part of the Santa Rosa community, earning the trust of local families through integrity, results, and compassionate advocacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is considered a “wrongful death” case?

    A wrongful death occurs when someone loses their life due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act. Common examples include car accidents, medical malpractice, unsafe workplaces, or defective products.

  • Who can file a wrongful death claim in California?

    In California, the deceased person’s surviving spouse, domestic partner, or children usually have the right to file. If there are no direct descendants, other close relatives or dependents may be eligible.

  • What types of compensation can a family recover?

    Damages may include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship and guidance, and emotional suffering caused by the wrongful death.

  • How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim?

    In most cases, California law allows two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and protect your right to recovery.

  • How is a wrongful death attorney paid?

    At Applegate Law, you pay no upfront fees. Our wrongful death representation is contingency-based — meaning we only get paid if we win compensation for your family.

Let’s Talk It Through

If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to face this alone. We’ll handle the legal fight so your family can focus on healing. Talk with a compassionate wrongful death attorney in Santa Rosa, CA today. We represent families across Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, and surrounding areas.

Call for a Free Consultation