Wrongful Death Attorney
Orlando Wrongful Death Representation
Despite popular belief, the purpose of a wrongful death claim is to help bring justice to families and honor the memories of those who have passed. Your family may very well be entitled to damages due to the negligence of another; however, such cases can be difficult to pursue in a time of grieving.
After all, we understand the heartache associated with losing a loved one and work to make the legal process as painless as possible for our clients.
That being said, families should strive to pursue wrongful death claims sooner rather than later to help bring justice swiftly and preserve the specific details of their cases. Also, the state of Florida has a two-year statute of limitations on wrongful death claims.
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What Exactly is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim is a legal action taken against a person who caused the death of another either intentionally or by negligence. A combination of factors determines whether or not a wrongful death claim can be pursued such as:
- Death of a person as a result of negligence or intent of harm
- The need for monetary compensation on behalf of the family or estate of the deceased
- Representation on behalf of the family estate
If these elements are present and you suspect wrongful death in the case of a loved one, you may very well have a case; however, it is best that you secure legal representation to make it happen.
Examples of Wrongful Death Claims
Not all wrongful death claims are created equal and they are rarely “black and white” cases. The following represent examples of wrongful death claims, each of which is unique in terms of what must be presented to build a case:
- Automobile accidents (car, truck or motorcycle)
- Accidents within the workplace
- Medical malpractice
- Death as a result of criminal activity
The aforementioned cases can quickly become complicated given the lack of testimony by the deceased. That being said, families may still pursue justice if they feel that they have a case and evidence to support their claim.
Collecting Damages in a Lawful Death Claim
Perhaps the most important aspect of any wrongful death claim is the process of obtaining damages and just compensation by the family.
The most common form of damages pursued in wrongful death claims includes lost wages and income, loss of support and damages related to pain and suffering. While it may be easy to dismiss such damages, bear in mind that you are entitled to compensation in the case of wrongful death. In extreme cases, punitive damages may also be awarded for particularly negligent behavior.
Ultimately, the monetary awards in wrongful death cases are provided to the estate of the victim and the family. The amount awarded varies on a case-by-case basis depending on the circumstances of death and other factors.
Want to Know More?
Wrongful death claims are inherently complicated; however, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t pursue one. Struggling with the legalese? We can most certainly help. If you suspect you may have a wrongful death claim or have more questions about negligence or compensation, feel free to contact us today.