When a loved one is killed in a tragic accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence or reckless behavior, there is absolutely nothing that can help make this difficult time any better. It doesn’t mean, however, that the responsible party, or parties, should get off without any repercussions. They need to be held accountable for their actions, reimburse you for expenses related to your family member’s death, and compensate you for the loss of your loved one and his or her support. This is what’s known as a wrongful death claim.
When you retain an Atlanta wrongful death lawyer, your lawyer will handle negotiations with the other side and fight for the compensation your family deserves. There are many types of incidents that can lead to a wrongful death claim, including an auto accident, defective product, criminal wrongdoing, medical malpractice, and more. While there is no amount of money that can bring your loved one back, a wrongful death action allows you to recover some of the financial costs you face when a loved one unexpectedly passes away, as well as help with future difficulties like the loss of your spouse’s income and emotional support.
It’s important to understand that wrongful death actions are controlled by a completely different set of laws than regular personal injury claims. You should only entrust your case to an attorney who has experience with wrongful death claims, or you may get less-than-desired results. At Shani O. Brooks P.C., we have over 10 years of experience handling personal injury claims and wrongful death actions.
When you bring a wrongful death action, it is a civil law matter. It has nothing to do with any criminal aspects, although there are wrongful death matters that could be considered a crime. This means the state doesn’t have to bring criminal charges against the responsible party in order for you to pursue a civil case.
Just because you want to file a lawsuit for wrongful death in the state, it doesn’t mean you are qualified to. Wrongful death statutes, including the Georgia Wrongful Death Act, have specific language on who can bring a claim on behalf of the decedent. It states that a claim can only be filed by:
Some states may allow other family members like uncles and aunts, siblings, cousins, and/or grandparents to bring a wrongful death action, but Georgia does not. A wrongful death claim is for the “full value of the life of the decedent.” This includes tangible and intangible components.
There is also a secondary claim, known as the estate claim, that allows the family to recover for the decedent’s medical bills, funeral expenses, and pain and suffering he or she experienced prior to death. If there is a claim for punitive damages in the wrongful death action, it must be brought forth by the estate as well.
In Georgia, wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to seek compensation for the tragic death of a loved one caused by someone else’s negligence or intentional acts. Atlanta wrongful death lawyers help grieving families pursue justice and recover the maximum compensation available under the law. Understanding the types of compensation you may be entitled to is essential when pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit.
Economic damages are tangible losses that have a measurable financial impact on the surviving family members. These damages include:
Non-economic damages reflect the emotional and intangible losses experienced by the family. These damages may include:
Punitive damages may be available in cases where the responsible parties acted with gross negligence or intentional wrongdoing, such as drunk driving or criminal acts leading to the person’s death. Georgia wrongful death attorneys can help determine if seeking punitive damages is appropriate, holding the at-fault party accountable for their reckless behavior. While these damages are not meant to compensate for a specific loss, they serve as a deterrent against future wrongdoing.
In addition to a wrongful death lawsuit, the decedent’s estate may pursue a survival claim, which compensates for the pain and suffering the deceased endured before their death. This separate claim can include compensation for medical and funeral expenses as well as any punitive damages the estate may be entitled to.
Wrongful death cases often include compensation for the loss of services the deceased person would have provided to the family, such as childcare, household maintenance, or caregiving responsibilities. Surviving family members may be entitled to a financial recovery to cover these lost contributions.
In some wrongful death lawsuits, compensation for the loss of future inheritance may be awarded. This accounts for the financial support and wealth the deceased person would have accumulated and passed down to their heirs.
Experienced wrongful death attorneys often work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any upfront fees. Compensation may also include coverage for legal costs associated with the wrongful death action, allowing grieving families to seek justice without worrying about the financial burden of hiring a lawyer.
Losing a loved one to someone else’s negligence or an intentional act is devastating, and seeking justice may seem overwhelming. However, working with an experienced wrongful death attorney can make all the difference in your case. If you’re facing the tragic death of a family member, whether due to car accidents, medical malpractice, or criminal acts, contact an Atlanta wrongful death lawyer today for a free legal consultation. Our legal team can help you pursue a fair settlement, holding responsible parties accountable while providing compassionate advocacy during this difficult time.
Shani O. Brooks P.C. is a trusted and experienced law firm dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to families dealing with the loss of a loved one due to wrongful death. Here’s why you should choose us:
1. Compassionate Advocacy: We understand the emotional toll that comes with losing a loved one. Our team provides compassionate support and guidance throughout the legal process, ensuring you feel heard and supported during this difficult time.
2. Legal Expertise: With over 10 years of experience, our firm has a deep understanding of Georgia’s wrongful death laws. We have successfully handled numerous wrongful death cases and have a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients.
3. Personalized Attention: We believe in providing personalized attention to every client. Our team takes the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our legal strategies to meet your specific needs and goals.
4. Strong Advocacy: We are committed to fighting for justice on your behalf. Our wrongful death attorney Georgia legal reps are skilled negotiators and litigators who will vigorously advocate for your rights and seek the maximum compensation you deserve.
5. Comprehensive Support: We offer comprehensive support throughout the legal process, handling all aspects of your case so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life. From investigating the incident to negotiating with insurance companies, we are with you every step of the way.
6. Proven Results: Our wrongful death attorney Georgia firm has a proven track record of success in handling wrongful death cases. We have recovered substantial compensation for our clients and have earned a reputation for excellence in the legal community.
7. Free Consultation: We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and answer any questions you may have. This allows you to get to know us and our approach before making any commitment. With that said if you are looking for a wrongful death attorney Georgia provider, contact us today!
Wrongful death actions are complex and require the skill of an experienced wrongful death attorney Georgia legal representative. With that said, make sure to Contact Shani O. Brooks P.C. today at 404-920-4736 to schedule a consultation. Let our team of skilled wrongful death attorney Georgia reps help you get the compensation your family needs during this horrible tragedy.
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