The time limit for filing wrongful death suits varies in California. If the wrongful death was caused by a public entity, including a hospital district (e.g., Palomar Health), you have six months from the date of death to file a claim with the entity. Wrongful death lawsuits caused by medical malpractice must be filed within one year of death and non-medical malpractice cases must be filed within two years. If the negligence was caused by a federal employee acting within the scope of their employment, the Federal Tort Claims Act requires that a claim be filed within two years of death.
The statute of limitations or deadline laws are complicated in California. Contact a wrongful death lawyer right away so that you and your family are not prevented from pursuing your wrongful death case.