Los Angeles, CA personal injury attorney Narbeh Shirvanian talks about who can bring a wrongful death claim. The individuals eligible to initiate a wrongful death case on behalf of a decedent are determined in accordance with the probate code and are referred to as intestate heirs. In situations where an individual passes away in a car accident, eligibility hinges on the legal marital status of the decedent. If legally married, the spouse emerges as the successor with the right to pursue the claim on behalf of the decedent’s estate. In cases where the deceased individual lacks a surviving spouse, attention turns to the presence of biological or adopted children, as adopted children are also considered eligible.

In the absence of a surviving spouse or children, the next consideration typically extends to the parents and other potential heirs as outlined by the probate code.