Who Can File a Suit With a Wrongful Death Attorney?

Find out if you should consider hiring a wrongful death attorney.

Few things are as traumatic as the sudden loss of someone close to you. The knowledge that the negligence or recklessness of another is to blame for your loss only intensifies the anguish. While no amount of money can bring your loved one back, wrongful death attorneys work tirelessly to help surviving family members to receive the necessary compensation to ease their financial burden and hold negligent parties accountable.
Whether it’s a fatal car wreck, workplace accident, product liability matter or medical malpractice case, defendants must pay dearly if they are found to be at fault. Surviving family members and dependents are generally the beneficiaries of these payouts. Who can claim damages, or monetary compensation, and who actually files the lawsuit varies a bit from state to state, so it’s advisable to seek the guidance of a skilled wrongful death attorney.

Filing a Claim With a Wrongful Death Attorney

Every state allows surviving spouses of the deceased to file wrongful death claims. Parents of deceased minor children are also allowed to file suit, and surviving minor children of deceased parents are entitled to damages. All states allow the executor of the victim’s estate to file a wrongful death suit on behalf of surviving immediate family members. In some cases there are none, however, and a wrongful death attorney will need to evaluate exactly who is entitled to compensation.
For the most part, the more distant your relationship to the victim, the less likely it is you can file a claim. Financial dependence must be proven as well. In certain cases, disability leaves an adult child dependent on a parent, or vice versa. Wrongful death damages would apply in these situations. States don’t agree on whether siblings and more distant relatives can file, so you’ll need to consult a wrongful death attorney for clarification.

Let a Wrongful Death Attorney Fight for Your Family

All states allow immediate family members to recover damages in wrongful death cases. Spouses and children are entitled to compensation for their loved one’s medical bills, funeral expenses and lost wages. In addition, immediate family members are often entitled to damages for emotional pain and suffering. Punitive damages are awarded in certain special cases where the actions of the negligent party were particularly egregious.
The grieving process is difficult enough without having to navigate the maze of wrongful death statutes. The experienced wrongful death attorneys from Tolbert Beadle are well-acquainted with the nuances of these cases, and the best outcome for you and your family is our top priority. We strongly believe negligent actions must be accounted for, which is why our law firm doesn’t collect a dime until you get paid. Contact us for a free consultation today.