Wrongful Death Claims

When negligence takes a life, surviving family members have the right to seek justice and financial recovery.

A wrongful death claim arises when a person dies as a result of another party's negligent, reckless, or intentional conduct. These claims provide a legal remedy for surviving family members who have lost a loved one and face the financial and emotional devastation that follows. Wrongful death cases can stem from car accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, workplace accidents, criminal acts, and many other scenarios. The purpose of a wrongful death lawsuit is to compensate surviving dependents and family members for losses they would not have suffered had their loved one lived. Damages typically fall into two categories: economic losses such as the deceased's future earning capacity, benefits, and the value of household services they provided; and non-economic losses such as loss of companionship, consortium, guidance, and the survivors' grief and mental anguish. In some states, the decedent's estate may also pursue a survival action for damages the deceased personally suffered before death, including pain and suffering and medical bills. Who can file a wrongful death claim varies by state — typically the surviving spouse, children, or parents, with more distant relatives permitted in some jurisdictions. Strict filing deadlines apply, and cases require prompt investigation to preserve evidence. An attorney experienced in wrongful death litigation can guide the family through this extraordinarily difficult process.

For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney.