Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Hawaii: A Compassionate Lawyer’s Perspective

Losing a loved one is the most painful experience anyone can face. But when that loss is caused by someone else’s negligence (a drunk driver, a careless business, a defective product), the grief is often compounded by confusion, anger, and a deep desire for justice.

In Hawaii, families who lose someone due to another’s wrongdoing may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. While no legal action can ever replace the person you’ve lost, pursuing a wrongful death claim can offer accountability, financial relief, and a sense of closure. At our firm, we approach these cases not just as attorneys, but as members of the community who care deeply about helping families heal.

What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil legal claim brought when someone dies due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another person or entity. These cases are not criminal prosecutions (though they may happen alongside one), but a way for surviving family members to seek compensation for their loss.

Examples of wrongful death cases include:

• Fatal car or truck accidents
• Pedestrian deaths due to unsafe road conditions
• Medical malpractice or surgical errors
• Unsafe products or medications
• Workplace accidents
• Drownings due to hazardous property conditions
• Nursing home neglect or abuse

In all of these cases, the legal system recognizes that surviving family members may suffer immense financial and emotional harm and deserve compensation and justice.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Hawaii?

Under Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes § 663-3, the following parties may file a wrongful death lawsuit:

• The personal representative of the deceased person’s estate
• Immediate family members such as a spouse, children, parents, or, in some cases, siblings or legal dependents

Wrongful death claims must generally be filed within two years of the date of death, though certain exceptions may apply. It’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and preserve critical evidence.

What Damages Can Be Recovered?

No amount of money can ever truly measure the loss of a loved one. However, compensation can ease some of the burdens that families face after a tragedy, especially when it comes to long-term financial support, future planning, and honoring the person’s memory.

In Hawaiʻi, families may recover damages for:

• Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness
• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of income and future earnings that the person would have provided
• Loss of companionship, love, care, and guidance
• Emotional suffering of surviving family members
• Punitive damages, in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm

At Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner, we work with care and precision to calculate the full scope of your losses. Not just numbers on a page, but the true human cost of what you’re enduring.

Why Local Experience Matters in Wrongful Death Cases

Hawaiʻi is more than a place; it’s a way of life rooted in ohana, aloha, and respect. In times of loss, our communities often rally around each other. But when a legal battle arises, families need someone who can not only navigate the law but also honor the emotional depth of what they’re going through.

At Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner, we bring:

• Decades of experience handling wrongful death cases across Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, and the Big Island
• A deep understanding of local courts, judges, and insurance companies
• Relationships with experts, investigators, and medical professionals who can strengthen your case
• A compassionate, family-centered approach that respects your grief while pursuing justice with strength

We understand that this isn’t just a legal case, it’s the life of someone you love. We never lose sight of that.

A Compassionate Legal Process At Your Pace

Some families come to us ready to take action right away. Others need time to process their grief before facing legal matters. Both are okay.

We tailor our approach to your emotional needs, not just your legal ones. We’ll walk with you, step by step, explaining your rights, answering your questions, and handling all the legal burdens, so you can focus on healing.

Real Support. Real Results.

Over the years, we’ve helped many families across Hawaiʻi secure justice after a wrongful death. Some have lost children in tragic accidents. Others have lost spouses in workplace disasters or due to medical negligence. Each story is unique, and we approach every case with the care and attention it deserves.

We’ve recovered millions of dollars on behalf of grieving families, not because we believe money replaces a life, but because accountability matters, and so does ensuring your future is protected.

Contact Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner Today

If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, we are deeply sorry. We know what a painful, confusing time this can be. But you are not alone and do not have to face it alone.

Call us at 808-210-3252  for a free, confidential consultation. We’re available 24 hours a day and will take the time to listen, support you, and explain your options with compassion and clarity.

At Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner, we don’t just fight for justice, we stand beside you like family.