Losing a loved one in Olivehurst due to someone else’s negligence is devastating, and families often face complex legal and emotional challenges while grieving. At Law Republic APC we focus on guiding families through the process of pursuing a wrongful death claim in Yuba County. This introduction explains what a wrongful death claim seeks to achieve, who may bring a claim under California law, and how timelines and damages are typically determined. We aim to provide clear, practical information to help Olivehurst residents understand their options and make informed decisions during a difficult time.
When a death is caused by another party’s careless or unlawful conduct, pursuing a wrongful death action can provide financial recovery and help hold responsible parties accountable. In Olivehurst, California, these cases can involve vehicle collisions, medical incidents, dangerous property conditions, or other forms of negligence. This paragraph outlines the initial steps families should consider, such as preserving evidence, obtaining medical and accident records, and consulting with a law firm familiar with Yuba County procedures. Our goal is to outline the path forward in a compassionate, straightforward manner for those coping with loss.
Pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide several tangible benefits to surviving family members in Olivehurst. Beyond potential compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and loss of companionship, a claim can bring a measure of accountability for actions that led to tragedy. Filing a claim can also help secure resources needed for the family’s future and can serve as a formal record of responsibility. For many families, the legal process also creates an opportunity to seek answers about what happened, to compile evidence into a clear narrative, and to achieve closure while ensuring similar harms are less likely to recur.
Law Republic APC serves clients across California, including Olivehurst and Yuba County, handling personal injury and wrongful death matters with a focus on attentive representation. Our attorneys bring years of litigation and negotiation experience handling sensitive, high-stakes cases, and we emphasize clear communication and strategic planning tailored to each family’s needs. We work to collect records, coordinate with investigators, and pursue fair compensation while treating clients with respect and empathy. Families can expect straightforward guidance about timelines, probable outcomes, and procedural steps required by local courts and insurance processes.
A wrongful death claim is a civil action brought by eligible survivors when a person dies due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or wrongful act. In Olivehurst and throughout California, eligible plaintiffs often include spouses, domestic partners, children, and sometimes other dependents. Claims can seek damages for economic losses such as medical bills and lost wages, as well as non-economic losses like loss of love and guidance. The legal process includes investigation, evidence gathering, negotiations with insurers, and possibly litigation. Knowing the parties who may sue, the types of recoverable damages, and the applicable statute of limitations is essential to preserving a claim.
Timely action is important in wrongful death matters because California imposes strict filing deadlines and procedural requirements. A thorough understanding of how liability is established, how damages are calculated, and how comparative fault rules may affect recovery will shape case strategy. Families should also be aware of documentation that strengthens a claim, such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, and employment records. In Olivehurst, local knowledge about the courts, prosecutors, and common case types can also inform the best approach to negotiation and litigation on behalf of surviving family members.
A wrongful death claim is a civil remedy that enables survivors to seek compensation when a person’s death results from another party’s neglect or intentional act. These claims are separate from criminal prosecutions; even if criminal charges are filed, a civil action may still be pursued to address economic and non-economic harms. Wrongful death actions typically require proof that the defendant owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and that breach directly caused the decedent’s death. In Olivehurst, common examples include fatal car accidents, negligent medical care, and unsafe premises incidents. The claim aims to restore financial stability and recognize the losses suffered by surviving relatives.
Successfully pursuing a wrongful death claim involves proving several elements, conducting thorough investigation, and following procedural steps. Essential components include establishing duty, breach, causation, and damages tied to the decedent’s death. The process often begins with fact gathering, such as collecting accident reports, medical charts, and witness accounts, followed by demand negotiations with insurers. If resolution is not reached, litigation may proceed with discovery, depositions, and trial. Throughout, effective case management includes documentation of economic losses, retention of professionals for valuation, and clear communication with the family about expectations and timelines.
Understanding common legal terms helps families navigate wrongful death cases more confidently. This glossary clarifies phrases you will encounter, such as damages, decedent, surviving spouse, and comparative fault. Familiarity with these terms supports better conversations with attorneys, insurers, and investigators and reduces confusion during the claims process. The following entries provide concise definitions and practical context specific to Olivehurst and California law so families can quickly reference important concepts while managing evidence, paperwork, and communications related to the claim.
Damages refer to the monetary compensation a court may award in a wrongful death claim to address losses suffered by surviving family members. These can include economic damages like funeral costs, medical expenses incurred before death, and lost future earnings, as well as non-economic damages for loss of companionship, comfort, and guidance. In Olivehurst cases, careful documentation of bills, pay stubs, and day-to-day contributions strengthens claims for appropriate compensation. Damages are calculated based on evidence of loss and may be influenced by factors such as the decedent’s age, earning capacity, and family responsibilities.
Comparative fault is a legal principle in California that may reduce a recovery if the decedent or another party bears some responsibility for the incident that caused the death. Under comparative fault rules, the percentage of fault attributed to the decedent is deducted from the total damages awarded to surviving plaintiffs. For families in Olivehurst, this means that even if the defendant is partially at fault, recovery may still be possible but adjusted proportionally. Establishing accurate fault allocation often requires thorough investigation, witness testimony, and analysis of physical evidence from the scene.
The statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing a wrongful death lawsuit and varies by jurisdiction and case type. In California, plaintiffs generally have two years from the date of death to file a civil wrongful death action, though exceptions can alter that timeframe. For families in Olivehurst, observing these deadlines is critical because missing the deadline can bar the claim. Timely steps include preserving evidence, notifying potential defendants or insurers when appropriate, and ensuring court filings are prepared and submitted within the legal period to protect the family’s right to seek compensation.
A surviving plaintiff is an individual who is legally eligible to bring a wrongful death action on behalf of the decedent’s estate or for their own losses. Common surviving plaintiffs include spouses, registered domestic partners, children, and sometimes dependents who relied on the decedent for support. In Olivehurst, identifying the correct plaintiffs at an early stage ensures proper notice and representation for all entitled family members. The role of a surviving plaintiff includes pursuing claims for lost financial support and for emotional losses tied to the death, and making decisions about settlement negotiations or litigation strategy.
Families pursuing wrongful death recovery can choose between a focused, limited approach and a broader, comprehensive representation style. A limited approach may target immediate bill payment and quick settlement for clear liability cases, while a comprehensive approach addresses long-term financial needs, potential punitive damages, and robust investigation where liability is contested. For Olivehurst residents, selecting the right approach depends on case complexity, the decedent’s financial contributions, and whether multiple parties share fault. Understanding the differences helps families set priorities and choose a path aligned with both short-term needs and long-term financial security.
A limited approach may be effective when liability is clear and the family’s immediate concern is covering funeral and outstanding medical bills. In cases where the at-fault party accepts responsibility or where strong police and witness documentation supports a swift claim, pursuing a streamlined settlement can reduce delay and emotional strain. Olivehurst families facing urgent financial obligations may prioritize an efficient resolution. However, it is important to weigh short-term relief against the possibility of greater long-term losses if future income and non-economic damages are not fully assessed before settling.
A limited approach is also reasonable when the case lacks complex causation questions or competing insurance issues. If investigations show a straightforward sequence of events with minimal dispute over fault, a targeted negotiation with insurers can secure fair payment without prolonged litigation. For families in Olivehurst, this path may reduce legal costs and simplify recovery. Still, before accepting a settlement, it is wise to ensure that the offer accounts for foreseeable future needs and does not inadvertently waive claims to compensation for ongoing losses or other parties who may later be identified as responsible.
Comprehensive representation is important when fault is disputed or multiple defendants could share responsibility, requiring in-depth investigation, expert testimony, and coordinated legal action. In Olivehurst cases involving complex accident reconstruction, medical causation disputes, or interactions among several insurers, a broader approach helps secure evidence, retain necessary professionals, and build a persuasive case. Families pursuing full compensation for economic and non-economic losses benefit from a strategy that systematically evaluates all potential sources of recovery and prepares for litigation if insurers decline reasonable offers.
If the decedent provided significant financial or caregiving support, or if long-term losses such as future earnings and loss of guidance are substantial, a comprehensive approach ensures these factors are properly valued and presented. This method includes detailed economic analysis, life care planning when applicable, and careful documentation of non-economic harms. For Olivehurst families, a thoughtful, thorough strategy aims to protect the family’s financial future and ensure that settlements reflect the full scope of the loss rather than only immediate expenses.
A comprehensive approach helps ensure all sources of compensation are explored and that both economic and non-economic losses are fully documented. This includes identifying responsible parties, preserving crucial evidence, consulting with medical and financial professionals, and preparing strong claims that can withstand insurer scrutiny or courtroom examination. For Olivehurst residents, pursuing a well-supported case increases the likelihood of achieving a fair result that addresses immediate obligations and long-term needs. Thorough preparation also reduces the risk of accepting an inadequate early offer made without full analysis of future impacts.
Beyond financial recovery, a comprehensive process can help families obtain answers about what happened and create an official record of responsibility. This can be especially meaningful in cases involving systemic issues or repeated hazards in the Olivehurst area. Properly documented claims also improve leverage in settlement talks and provide a stronger foundation for litigation if necessary. Families can expect a comprehensive approach to include regular communication, strategic decision-making, and attention to both legal details and the human needs that arise after a devastating loss.
One major benefit of a comprehensive approach is accurate assessment of the decedent’s economic contributions, including lost wages, benefits, and projected future earnings. Proper valuation requires analysis of employment history, earning potential, and the financial roles the decedent played in the household. For Olivehurst families this means that calculators and estimates are supported by documentation, potentially with input from vocational or financial professionals. Ensuring economic losses are fully captured prevents undervaluation at settlement and helps protect survivors’ financial stability over time.
Comprehensive representation also focuses on documenting and presenting non-economic losses such as loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support. These elements often carry significant weight in wrongful death claims but require careful narrative building and corroboration through witness statements and detailed records. In Olivehurst cases, capturing the decedent’s role in family life and community involvement can make a substantial difference in how these damages are perceived and valued. Presenting a compelling picture of the human impact supports equitable outcomes during negotiations or trial.
Preserving evidence as early as possible strengthens a wrongful death claim. This includes saving photographs, obtaining police reports, and securing contact information for witnesses. For medical-related deaths, requesting and preserving medical records from hospitals and treating providers is vital. In Olivehurst, local records and accident scene photographs can be lost or altered if not promptly obtained. Taking these initial steps helps ensure the facts remain clear and available for investigation, settlement discussions, and, if necessary, litigation to protect the family’s ability to pursue full compensation.
Clear, documented communication with insurers, medical providers, and legal counsel helps protect your family’s interests. Keep a log of calls, written correspondence, and the names of individuals you speak with about the case. In Olivehurst, this practice prevents misunderstandings and creates a reliable trail of information if disputes arise. Transparency with your legal team about the family’s needs and priorities enables informed decisions about settlement offers and litigation choices, ensuring that actions taken reflect what matters most to the family going forward.
Pursuing a wrongful death claim provides families with a legal avenue to obtain compensation for funeral expenses, medical bills, lost income, and the intangible losses of companionship and support. For Olivehurst residents, legal action can also create accountability for unsafe practices that contributed to the death and help prevent similar incidents in the future. Seeking compensation can ease financial burdens and allow families to focus on healing during a period of profound loss. Understanding the potential benefits of a claim helps families decide whether legal action aligns with their needs and priorities.
Another reason to consider a wrongful death action is to protect the family’s long-term financial security. Recoveries can cover future needs such as loss of financial contributions, childcare, and ongoing expenses tied to the decedent’s role. Legal action also ensures a formal record of the circumstances surrounding the death, which can be meaningful for families seeking answers and accountability. For Olivehurst families, informed legal guidance helps balance the desire for closure with pragmatic steps to secure the household’s future and address immediate obligations.
Wrongful death claims in Olivehurst commonly arise from vehicle collisions, medical negligence, unsafe property conditions, defective products, and workplace incidents. Each situation involves unique investigative and legal considerations, such as determination of duty of care, retention of medical or accident reconstruction professionals, and collection of employment and insurance records. Families facing these types of losses benefit from early fact gathering and legal assessment to determine liability and potential recovery. Prompt action helps preserve evidence and protect the family’s right to pursue appropriate compensation under California law.
Fatal auto collisions are a leading cause of wrongful death claims, often involving complex causation and multiple parties. In Olivehurst, collisions may involve local roadways, commercial vehicles, or impaired driving. Determining liability can require police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction analysis to establish how the crash occurred and who bears responsibility. Families should collect insurance information and preserve medical and emergency response records. A thorough approach helps ensure that claims reflect both immediate costs and the decedent’s long-term economic contributions to the family.
Deaths related to medical care or treatment can give rise to wrongful death claims when negligent diagnosis, delayed treatment, surgical errors, or medication mistakes contribute to a fatal outcome. These cases require careful review of medical records, timelines of care, and consultation with medical professionals to assess whether the standard of care was met. For Olivehurst families, pursuing a medical-related wrongful death claim often involves additional procedural steps and expert input to demonstrate causation and the extent of damages, which supports fair resolution through negotiation or litigation.
Dangerous property conditions and workplace incidents can also result in wrongful death claims when landowners or employers fail to maintain safe conditions. Evidence collection often includes maintenance records, inspection logs, witness accounts, and photographs of hazardous conditions. In Olivehurst cases involving public or private property, establishing notice of the hazard and the property owner’s duty to address it are key legal considerations. Workers’ deaths may involve coordination between civil claims and workers’ compensation processes, with legal strategies tailored to the family’s overall recovery objectives.
Law Republic APC provides compassionate guidance to families navigating wrongful death claims in Olivehurst and Yuba County. We focus on clear communication, careful investigation, and strategic representation designed to preserve rights and pursue appropriate compensation. Our approach includes explaining legal options, coordinating evidence collection, and advocating with insurers or in court when necessary. We recognize the emotional and financial challenges that follow a loss, and we work to provide responsive support so families can make informed choices about pursuing recovery while they focus on healing and rebuilding.
Law Republic APC serves Olivehurst and the broader Yuba County area with focused attention on personal injury and wrongful death matters. Our team approaches each case with thorough preparation, transparent communication, and a commitment to pursuing meaningful outcomes for affected families. We work to preserve critical evidence, coordinate necessary professionals to evaluate damages, and provide clear guidance about legal options and likely timelines. Families benefit from consistent updates and practical advice tailored to the specific circumstances of the case.
We prioritize understanding each family’s unique needs so that legal strategy reflects both immediate financial concerns and long-term welfare. From gathering records to negotiating with insurers and preparing for litigation if required, our attorneys manage the legal process while keeping the family informed. For Olivehurst residents, having a responsive team that knows local procedures and can navigate the practicalities of a wrongful death claim helps reduce stress and supports better decision-making during a challenging time.
Our goal is to secure fair compensation while treating families with compassion and respect. We provide personalized attention to ensure that claims account for the decedent’s contributions and losses suffered by survivors. Whether seeking settlement or preparing to litigate, we emphasize careful documentation and strategic advocacy at every stage. Families can rely on practical, direct guidance about options and outcomes, with clear explanations of possible next steps and the implications of settlement offers or court actions.
Our legal process starts with a thorough case evaluation to identify potential defendants, collect records, and determine the most effective path forward. We begin by gathering medical and incident documentation, interviewing witnesses, and assessing insurance coverage and potential damages. Next we develop a strategy for negotiation or litigation, retain professionals if needed, and prepare demand materials. If settlement is not achievable, we proceed with filing claims and engaging in discovery, depositions, and trial preparation. Throughout the process, we keep families informed and focused on both practical outcomes and legal options.
The first step involves evaluating the circumstances surrounding the death and gathering key evidence to support a claim. This includes reviewing police and medical reports, obtaining witness statements, and preserving physical and digital evidence. In Olivehurst cases, prompt action often makes a significant difference in the quality of evidence available. We also assess potential defendants, applicable insurance policies, and the decedent’s financial records to estimate losses. This foundational work informs strategy and ensures the family’s rights are protected as the claim develops.
Collecting critical documentation includes securing medical records, hospital billing statements, police reports, and any available surveillance or scene photographs. Employment records and tax documents are gathered to quantify economic losses. In Olivehurst, timely requests for records prevent important information from being lost or destroyed. Thorough documentation supports demand letters and potential court filings by providing a clear factual basis for damages and liability. Organizing and preserving these records early on strengthens the case and helps facilitate efficient negotiations with insurers.
Identifying and interviewing witnesses is essential to corroborate facts about how the incident occurred. Witness accounts can provide independent perspectives on the sequence of events, behaviors of involved parties, and environmental conditions. In Olivehurst cases, locating witnesses quickly increases the reliability of their recollections. Interviews are conducted to document statements and to determine whether additional investigation or expert analysis is needed. Witness testimony often plays a key role in establishing fault and in strengthening the narrative presented during settlement negotiations or trial.
After evidence is collected and damages are assessed, the next step typically involves preparing a demand package and negotiating with the at-fault party’s insurer. This phase includes presenting documented claims for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and non-economic damages. In Olivehurst, insurers may seek to limit payouts, so clear, organized evidence and a well-supported valuation of losses are important. Negotiation may lead to a fair settlement, but if offers fall short, the matter may proceed to filing a lawsuit and pursuing resolution through the courts.
Preparing a demand package entails compiling all relevant documentation and a written narrative of the decedent’s role, the incident, and the family’s losses. This material typically includes bills, pay records, medical reports, and witness statements, along with a clear explanation of damages sought. A persuasive demand package helps insurers understand the full scope of harm and the legal basis for the claim. For Olivehurst families, thorough preparation increases the likelihood of serious consideration by insurers and sets the stage for constructive negotiation toward fair compensation.
Settlement discussions involve back-and-forth negotiation with insurers and defense counsel over the amount and terms of a potential resolution. Effective negotiation is based on credible evidence, realistic damages assessment, and an understanding of the legal landscape. In Olivehurst matters, this process may include structured offers, counteroffers, and clarification of liability issues. If negotiations result in a fair settlement, releases and related documentation are prepared to conclude the matter. If not, the case advances to litigation for further adjudication of the claims.
If settlement cannot be reached, filing a lawsuit initiates formal litigation, which includes discovery, depositions, motions, and possibly trial. Discovery allows both sides to request documents and obtain sworn testimony to further clarify facts and refine case strategy. Motion practice can resolve key legal disputes before trial. For Olivehurst families, litigation is a more involved process but may be necessary to secure just compensation when defendants or insurers do not offer appropriate settlement amounts. Throughout litigation, the family is kept informed so they can weigh the risks and benefits of continuing toward trial.
Discovery involves exchanging documents, answering written questions, and conducting depositions of witnesses and involved parties. This phase is critical to refine claims, test defenses, and uncover additional evidence that supports damages and liability. In Olivehurst cases, discovery may reveal medical opinions, employment records, or internal communications that strengthen the family’s position. Careful management of discovery helps prepare for dispositive motions or trial and ensures the legal theory of the case is fully supported by the available evidence.
Trial preparation includes crafting persuasive witness examinations, arranging expert testimony when needed, and creating compelling exhibits for the court. Settlement remains possible at any point during litigation, and strong trial preparation often improves negotiating leverage. If a trial occurs in Yuba County, familiarity with local court procedures and timelines becomes important. For Olivehurst families, careful preparation aims to present a clear narrative of liability and damages to achieve a fair outcome. Whether resolved pretrial or at trial, the process seeks to secure appropriate compensation for the losses suffered.
In California, certain family members are generally eligible to bring a wrongful death claim, including the decedent’s spouse, registered domestic partner, children, and those who were dependent on the decedent for support. If there is no eligible family member, the personal representative of the decedent’s estate may pursue a claim on behalf of the estate and to distribute proceeds in accordance with the law. Determining eligibility early helps ensure proper representation and that all entitled parties are included in the claim process. Establishing the correct plaintiffs and representation is one of the first steps in preparing a wrongful death action. This ensures proper notice, protects the family’s rights, and allows the legal team to pursue all available remedies for economic and non-economic losses. Families should gather personal and financial records to support relationships and dependency claims required under California law.
Wrongful death claims can seek economic damages such as medical costs incurred before death, funeral and burial expenses, and lost financial support the decedent would have provided. They may also include loss of household services and loss of the decedent’s financial contributions to household expenses. These economic elements are documented with bills, employment records, and expert valuation when appropriate. Non-economic damages are also recoverable in many cases and address intangible losses like loss of companionship, comfort, and guidance. The court or insurers evaluate these damages based on the impact of the decedent’s death on surviving family members. A careful presentation of both economic and non-economic losses supports a more complete recovery for the family.
California typically imposes a two-year statute of limitations to file a wrongful death lawsuit, measured from the date of death. There are some exceptions that can extend or shorten this period depending on the circumstances, such as when the plaintiff is a minor or when the defendant is a government entity that requires a shorter administrative claim period before suit is filed. Because these rules are strict, timely action is essential to preserve legal rights. Families in Olivehurst should consult with legal counsel promptly to evaluate deadlines and any potential exceptions that might apply. Early investigation and filing of necessary notices prevent procedural barriers from undermining otherwise valid claims and give the family time to build a strong case.
Many wrongful death claims are resolved through negotiation with insurers before a lawsuit reaches trial. Negotiated settlements can provide timely financial relief and avoid the uncertainty and expense of trial. However, insurers may not always offer fair compensation, and when negotiations fail, filing a lawsuit and moving forward to litigation or trial may be necessary to achieve a full recovery. The decision to accept a settlement is made with careful consideration of present needs and long-term impacts. Families should seek counsel who will evaluate settlement offers against a realistic assessment of damages and the strengths and weaknesses of the case. Effective negotiation often requires comprehensive documentation and a readiness to proceed to litigation if a fair resolution is not offered.
Key evidence in wrongful death claims includes police and incident reports, medical records, witness statements, photographs of the scene, and employment records to document lost earnings. Physical evidence and scene preservation can be critical in establishing how the event occurred and who is at fault. In medical-related cases, detailed medical charts and provider notes are necessary to demonstrate the link between care and the fatal outcome. Organizing this evidence early and ensuring it is preserved and accessible strengthens claim presentation. Expert analysis, such as accident reconstruction or medical opinion, may be needed to interpret complex facts and demonstrate causation in negotiations or at trial.
A wrongful death claim can proceed independently of a criminal prosecution. Criminal charges focus on punishment, while a civil wrongful death action seeks compensation for survivors. Even when criminal cases are ongoing, civil claims can be filed, although coordination and timing may vary depending on legal strategy and the availability of evidence. Outcomes in one forum do not necessarily dictate results in the other. It is common for families to pursue both avenues, understanding that criminal proceedings may take longer and have a different burden of proof. Civil cases use a lower burden of proof, and families can seek recovery regardless of the status or result of criminal charges.
Comparative fault may reduce the amount of compensation if the decedent is found partly responsible for the incident that caused the death. California uses a comparative fault system that apportions responsibility among involved parties, and the decedent’s share of fault is deducted from the total recovery. This means that even if the decedent was partially at fault, surviving plaintiffs may still recover reduced damages. Allocating fault often requires detailed investigation and presentation of evidence showing how actions by various parties contributed to the incident. Effective legal advocacy seeks to minimize the decedent’s attributed fault and to document the defendant’s greater responsibility to maximize recovery.
Immediately after a fatal accident, families should focus on safety and medical care, then work to preserve evidence and gather contact information for witnesses. Obtaining a police report, taking photographs of the scene if possible, and collecting insurance information from involved parties are important steps. Requesting copies of medical records and bills related to the incident helps document economic loss for future claims. Timely legal consultation is advised to ensure evidence is preserved and to receive guidance about interactions with insurers and potential defendants. Early coordination with counsel helps families protect their legal rights while addressing immediate practical and emotional needs.
Settlement offers may cover some or all of a family’s needs, but early offers sometimes reflect only immediate expenses rather than long-term losses. Evaluating whether a settlement is sufficient requires careful analysis of present and future economic needs, non-economic harms, and potential risks of litigation. For Olivehurst families, consulting with legal counsel before accepting an offer ensures the settlement fairly compensates for ongoing financial consequences and emotional losses. A well-supported demand that accounts for future needs and documents the full scope of damages increases the likelihood of obtaining a settlement that properly addresses the family’s long-term welfare. Families should avoid accepting offers without professional review of their adequacy.
At Law Republic APC, we emphasize clear and regular communication with families, providing status updates, explaining options, and responding to questions throughout the case. We aim to be accessible by phone and email and to schedule meetings as needed to discuss evidence, settlement proposals, and litigation strategy. Families can expect straightforward explanations about the process and realistic assessments of potential outcomes. Consistent communication helps families make informed decisions and reduces uncertainty during an already stressful time. We work to maintain transparency about timelines, possible obstacles, and next steps so clients in Olivehurst and Yuba County can proceed with confidence and clarity.
