Coping with the loss of a loved one can be one of the most trying times of your life. When your family member’s death was caused by another party’s negligence or wrongdoing, the grieving process only intensifies. In these instances, you may have the legal right to file a wrongful death lawsuit and receive the closure and financial compensation in which you and your family are entitled. The wrongful death lawyers at The Cochran Firm D.C. are here to help you understand your legal rights and support you and your family through a claim.
By definition, a wrongful death is when a person is killed or death is caused due to the negligence or misconduct of another party. Those who were dependent on, or a beneficiary of or next of kin, may be entitled to monetary damages. In the majority of states, immediate family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit. This includes spouses and legal partners, children (including stepchildren and adopted children), and parents. Under certain circumstances, grandparents, siblings, and other family members who relied on the victim for support are eligible to file suit as well.
While states across America have passed wrongful death statutes in order to compel manufacturing companies, negligent motor vehicle operators, hospitals, and doctors to act carefully in their professional responsibilities, wrongful deaths do occur in situations such as the following examples:
Liability in a wrongful death case can stem from anything from momentary carelessness to intentional misconduct. Those who may be held responsible include individuals, businesses, and even government entities. Because these personal injury claims can be complicated, it’s often helpful to consult a wrongful death lawyer for guidance. Potential defendants include:
Individuals: This could be another driver in a car accident or a person who committed an intentional act of violence.
Businesses: Businesses can also be held accountable, whether it's for unsafe working conditions, defective products, or negligent hiring practices.
Government Entities: Even government entities, such as in cases of police misconduct or poorly maintained public spaces can face liability.
Since wrongful death claims can involve multiple parties and complex legal issues, working with a wrongful death attorney ensures that every responsible party is properly identified and held accountable.
Each state allows the next of kin, heirs, representative of estate or legal actions of a deceased individual to file a wrongful death lawsuit in the event of another party’s negligence causing the death of someone. Factors that courts consider when determining wrongful death damages one may receive include:
While no amount of financial payment can ever compensate for the loss or death of a loved one, being financially secure in your future and the comfort of responsible parties being brought to justice can provide a sense of closure and security to survivors. In some cases and states, it is important to deter others from engaging in the kind of action or conduct which will cause death to another. The laws involved in wrongful death lawsuits are complicated and vary in each state.
During your grieving period, consideration of a wrongful death lawsuit may not seem urgent; however, wrongful death cases must be filed within a specific time period. The need to get a lawyer as early as possible is important, or you risk losing your right to financial compensation. In Washington D.C, the statute of limitations for wrongful death cases is two years. This means family members must file a wrongful death claim within two years of the death of their loved ones.
Losing a loved one is an overwhelming experience. A local wrongful death attorney can be a source of support during this challenging time. Here’s how they can help:
A wrongful death attorney offers legal guidance and representation during one of the most challenging times in your life. They’ll help you understand your rights and what compensation you may be entitled to, while also navigating the complex legal processes. With their expertise, they can guide you through the intricacies of state and federal laws, ensuring every step is handled smoothly and correctly.
Financial compensation can ease the burden of unexpected costs. This includes covering any medical bills incurred before your loved one’s passing, as well as funeral and burial expenses, which can be overwhelming. Compensation may also account for the lost income and future financial support the deceased would have provided.
With expertise in negotiation, your attorney will work tirelessly to secure a fair settlement with the insurance companies. If negotiations fail, they will stand by your side in court, fighting for your rights and ensuring you are treated fairly throughout the process.
Every wrongful death case is different, and an attorney will provide the legal guidance and support you and your family needsYou need the help of an experienced, wrongful death lawyer who has proven successful results in other similar cases to guide you through the process and help you to receive the monetary damages you are entitled to under the law. At The Cochran Firm, we have the offices, the experience, the results, and the resources to aid clients throughout the United States. Please contact the wrongful death attorneys at The Cochran Firm today for your free case evaluation.
