Losing someone you love is a heartbreaking event, and finding out a funeral home mishandled their remains only makes things worse.
These incidents can lead to emotional harm, financial losses, and, in some cases, the loss of your loved one’s remains.
If you think Desert Lawn Funeral Home mishandled your loved one’s remains, speak with the funeral home negligence lawyers at Peerali Law. Our firm understands how sensitive this time can be for you.
We will handle all aspects of your legal claim so you can focus on grieving and being with loved ones. To share your story today, please contact us right away.
Desert Lawn Funeral Home’s Responsibilities
Funeral homes have many duties, including licensing requirements and contractual obligations. These responsibilities primarily revolve around proper handling and care, including:
- Dignified treatment. Funeral homes must handle the deceased with utmost dignity and respect throughout the entire process.
- Professional care. Employees must provide professional care to ensure the preservation and presentation of the deceased.
- Sensitive handling. Funeral homes should understand the emotional significance attached to the remains by the family and respect all wishes.
- Compliance with regulations. Funeral homes must adhere to all relevant laws related to embalming, transportation, and disposal of remains.
Unfortunately, many funeral homes fail to uphold these responsibilities. Their negligent or intentional conduct can expose them to civil and criminal legal liability.
Can You Sue a Funeral Home for Mishandling?
Yes, you can file a lawsuit if a funeral home mishandles remains or acts in other illegal ways. However, you must know what these acts look like to hold the company liable.
Common mishandling scenarios include:
- Improper embalming procedures,
- Misidentifying of the deceased,
- Providing the wrong remains after cremation,
- Swapping a loved one’s casket before burial,
- Burying the wrong body,
- Selling body parts, and
- Putting more than one body in a casket.
Recognizing these signs early on can help you take appropriate action to address any issues and seek justice for your loved one.
What to Do If You Suspect Mishandling
You may have the right to take legal action against Desert Lawn Funeral Home in Calimesa, CA. While the outcome of your case will depend on many factors, taking the following steps can help you build a strong claim.
Gather Evidence
Collecting evidence is crucial in cases of funeral home mishandling. Document any communication with the funeral home, including contracts and agreements.
Take photographs or videos of any visible signs of mishandling, such as the body’s condition. Gather statements from witnesses, if possible, to support your claims. This evidence will be instrumental in building a case and seeking justice for your loved one.
Report Desert Lawn Funeral Home
After collecting your evidence, contact the California Cemetery and Funeral Bureau. You can file a complaint, which may lead to an official investigation. However, make sure to make copies of all records before you submit them. The Bureau doesn’t return anything you submit.
Speak with a Lawyer
Trying to hold a funeral home accountable alone is a challenging task. It’s best to work with a skilled attorney during this time. They can offer invaluable support and guidance throughout the process.
Here are some of the ways a lawyer can help you:
- Legal knowledge. Attorneys understand negligence laws and regulations governing the funeral industry. They can assess your case, provide legal advice, and identify options to seek compensation.
- Case management. Legal proceedings can be complex and daunting, especially during such a difficult time. Your attorney will guide you through every step of the legal process, explaining your rights and what to expect.
- Detailed investigation. Attorneys have the resources and skills to conduct thorough investigations into the mishandling. They can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and assess the extent of negligence to build a compelling case on your behalf.
- Fierce representation. Your attorney is your advocate, representing you in negotiations with the funeral home or their insurer. They can also represent you in court, fighting for fair compensation and justice for your loved one.
- Maximize compensation. In cases of funeral home mishandling, you may be entitled to compensation for damages. Your lawyer will work diligently to maximize your compensation and ensure you receive the justice you deserve.
- Peace of mind. By entrusting your case to a skilled attorney, you can focus on grieving and healing while knowing that your legal matters are in capable hands. Your lawyer will handle the complexities of your case, allowing you to prioritize your well-being and that of your family.
Speak with Peerali Law if you want to sue Desert Lawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park in Calimesa, CA. Our funeral home negligence lawyers can help you get the support, guidance, and advocacy you need.
Am I Eligible for Compensation?
In cases of funeral home mishandling, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation to address the harm caused. You can demand damages for the emotional, financial, and physical toll from the misconduct.
Potential compensation may include:
- Emotional distress—compensation for the emotional pain and suffering endured as a result of the mishandling, including grief, anxiety, and mental anguish;
- Funeral expenses—reimbursement for the costs associated with arranging and conducting the funeral or memorial service, including casket, burial plot, cremation fees, and related expenses;
- Medical expenses—coverage for any medical expenses incurred as a result of the mishandling, such as therapy or counseling; and
- Punitive damages—additional compensation awarded to punish the funeral home for their egregious conduct and to deter future behavior.
The specific types and amount of compensation you may receive will depend on the circumstances of your case. It’s best to work with a knowledgeable attorney from Peerali Law to learn the value of your funeral home misconduct claim.
Get in Contact With a Funeral Home Negligence Attorney Today
The experienced team at Peerali Law is here to help you seek justice for your loved one. Our team has over 20 years of combined experience and a track record of securing substantial awards for our clients.
We are committed to working tirelessly for you and never back down from a fight. Contact us today to schedule a no-obligation case evaluation.
Kristopher earned his J.D. at the University of Southern California Gould School of Law where he was a member of the Review of Law and Social Justice honors law journal and was awarded several scholastic honors.
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