Experience, resources, and steady guidance during loss

Families facing a wrongful death are often grieving while trying to make sense of sudden decisions, legal uncertainty, and financial pressure. Having the right legal team matters, especially when the loss involves complex liability or powerful institutions.

Shaheen & Gordon offers families:

• Decades of experience handling serious wrongful death claims. Founded in 1981, Shaheen & Gordon is a full-service regional law firm with more than 70 attorneys. Our experience allows us to handle complex wrongful death cases involving vehicle collisions, medical errors, unsafe property conditions, and other preventable tragedies.
• A client-first approach grounded in trust and communication. We take the time to listen to families, explain Hawaii’s wrongful death law in clear terms, and help them understand what options may be available. Our goal is to guide families without pressure while respecting the emotional weight of the loss.
• Resources to investigate and pursue accountability. With attorneys across multiple practice areas and access to trusted experts when needed, we are equipped to investigate how the death occurred, identify responsible parties, and build a strong case without placing the burden on grieving families.
• Personal attention backed by institutional strength. While we have the depth and resources of a large firm, we prioritize direct communication and careful handling of each case. Families work with attorneys who remain involved and accessible throughout the process.
• A clear contingency fee structure. Wrongful death cases are handled on a contingency-fee basis, meaning there are no upfront legal fees. Compensation is pursued without adding financial strain during an already difficult time.

When does a death qualify as wrongful under Hawaii law?

A death may be considered wrongful under Hawaii law when it results from another person or organization failing to act with reasonable care. These cases often involve situations where known risks were overlooked or safety standards were not followed.

Wrongful death claims arise in many different settings. In Honolulu, they may stem from serious traffic collisions, medical mistakes, unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, workplace incidents, or accidents tied to ocean and recreational activities. Because no two situations are the same, whether a claim exists depends on the specific facts of how the death occurred and who may be legally responsible.

Who can bring a wrongful death claim in Honolulu?

Hawaii law limits who may bring a wrongful death claim, and eligibility depends on the relationship to the person who died. In many cases, surviving family members such as spouses, children, or parents may have the right to seek compensation. If the person who passed away did not have immediate family, other dependents or the estate’s representative may be able to take action.

Because these rules can be nuanced, it’s helpful to speak with an attorney before presuming whether or not you can file a claim. Clarifying who can file early helps families avoid delays or procedural issues later on.

What compensation may be available in a Hawaii wrongful death case?

A wrongful death claim is designed to help families cope with both the financial strain and the personal loss that follow a loved one’s death. Some losses are immediate and measurable, such as medical bills tied to the final injury, funeral and burial expenses, and the income or benefits the person would have contributed to the household over time.

Hawaii law also acknowledges the deeper, human impact of loss. Families may be able to seek compensation for the absence of companionship, care, guidance, and emotional support their loved one provided. Which damages apply depends on the family relationship and the circumstances surrounding the death, and each case is evaluated on its own facts.

Results in wrongful death cases

Shaheen & Gordon has represented families in wrongful death cases arising from serious accidents and preventable conduct. While every case is different, our experience includes successfully resolving complex claims involving fatal injuries.

• $15 million recovery in a truck accident that resulted in wrongful death
• $6 million recovery in an auto accident that led to wrongful death
• $1 million recovery in wrongful death due to nursing home negligence

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Each case is different, and case results referred to in this website are not intended to be, nor should they be understood as, a representation that equivalent results will be achieved in any given case.

How liability is established in Honolulu wrongful death claims

A wrongful death claim depends on showing that someone else’s actions, or failure to act, led to the loss of life. This means looking closely at what went wrong and how those decisions or omissions contributed to the fatal outcome.

Reaching those answers often takes careful investigation. Records and first-hand accounts can help piece together what happened, while expert insight may be needed to explain how the death occurred. Because these cases involve many moving parts, getting legal guidance early can help protect important information and clarify who may be responsible.

How a wrongful death lawyer can help your family

After a sudden loss, many families feel overwhelmed and unsure where to begin. Managing legal questions while grieving can feel like too much to take on. A wrongful death lawyer steps in to handle the legal process so your family does not have to carry that burden alone.

A wrongful death attorney in Honolulu can help by:

• Reviewing what happened and identifying potential legal responsibility
• Explaining your options under Hawaii wrongful death law
• Handling insurance and case communications on your behalf

When accountability is appropriate, a lawyer can work toward resolution through negotiation or, if necessary, litigation. Throughout the process, the focus remains on protecting your family’s interests, communicating clearly, and giving you the space you need to grieve.

What our firm’s clients say

Families who come to Shaheen & Gordon are often facing some of the most difficult moments of their lives. We are grateful for the trust our clients place in us during these times.