A wrongful death lawyer can help family members seek financial compensation after the tragic loss of a loved one. These lawsuits are civil actions that are separate from criminal charges. A wrongful death attorney can investigate what happened, determine who is responsible, and negotiate with opposing counsel for fair compensation. Wrongful deaths may occur due to car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, or other causes.
In most states, the immediate family of a deceased person can file a wrongful death suit. This includes spouses and domestic partners, children including stepchildren, parents, grandparents, and siblings. In addition, some states allow life or health partners, people who were financially dependent on the deceased person, putative spouses, and other relatives to sue for wrongful death. Each state has its own statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit, so it is important to consult an attorney who is familiar with the law in your area.
The amount of a settlement or verdict depends on many different factors, including who files the lawsuit and who is selected as the personal representative, the judge in the case, what jury is chosen, what evidence is presented to the jury, the overall damages sustained by surviving legal beneficiaries, and whether exemplary or punitive damages are awarded. The surviving legal beneficiaries must also agree on how to distribute the damages.
Bringing a wrongful death suit can be complex and time-consuming. Survivors must prove that their loved one died because of another party’s negligent conduct. This involves collecting and reviewing a large amount of evidence, such as medical bills, receipts, pay stubs, and other financial documents. It also means dealing with the emotional trauma of losing a loved one. Hiring a wrongful death attorney who has experience handling similar cases can make the process easier and more successful.
When a loved one dies as the result of someone else’s carelessness or wrongdoing, it is crucial that family members act quickly. In most states, there is a limited time period within which to bring a wrongful death suit, and if the lawsuit is not filed by that deadline, the survivors will forfeit their right to financial compensation. An experienced wrongful death lawyer can review the facts of a case and explain the laws in your area.
While no amount of money can replace a lost loved one, it can help ease the unavoidable financial burdens associated with a fatal accident. A wrongful death suit can provide compensation for funeral expenses, medical bills, and the loss of future income.
A New York wrongful death lawyer can protect your rights to financial compensation after the loss of a relative. Contact a lawyer today for a free consultation about your case. During this difficult time, our firm can help you find peace of mind. We can guide you through the legal process, allowing you to focus on your grief. Let us help you get the justice your family deserves.