A loved one's death can be shocking, especially when it's sudden and unexpected. Accidental deaths can occur due to negligence on the part of an individual or company. If your loved one passed away due to another person's actions, their death might be legally considered a wrongful death. When a wrongful death occurs, family members may be entitled to financial compensation.
Many people have never hired an attorney before. However, attorneys fulfill an important role in the legal system. They represent clients who need to file a lawsuit for any reason. A law firm that specializes in wrongful death can help you file a wrongful death suit after the passing of your loved one. If the following statements are true of your situation, it's wise to consult a wrongful death attorney:
1. You are unsure if you can file a wrongful death suit.
Certain criteria must be met for a wrongful death suit. However, only certain people can file wrongful death suits. Your ability to sue for the wrongful death of another person is dependent on your relationship to that person. Some states' laws are more restrictive than others. In some states, only immediate family members can file a wrongful death suit. Other states allow distant family members or even unrelated people to sue. An attorney can explain the laws that pertain to filing a lawsuit in your state.
2. You believe your loved one's death fits the criteria for wrongful death.
Wrongful death must be brought about by improper actions on someone else's part. Negligence is a common cause of wrongful death. Anyone who owed your loved one a duty of care can be found negligent if they failed in that duty. For instance, a medical practitioner can be negligent in their treatment of a patient. If poor quality treatment leads to death, you have grounds for a wrongful death suit.
3. You have suffered difficulties as a result of your loved one's death.
When determining the outcome of a wrongful death suit, a judge will consider the impact your loved one's death has had on you. Hardship can come in many forms. You may have suffered financial hardship as a result of your loved one's death, especially if they were the primary earner in your family. Your emotional suffering will also be taken into consideration. A wrongful death attorney will present your case, so you can receive adequate compensation for the trials you have faced due to your loved one's passing.
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