When a loved one dies in an accident that was the result of someone else’s negligence, wrongful act or fault, it can be very difficult for you to deal with. You may need the assistance of a wrongful death attorney to help you through the process.
A wrongful death lawsuit is a type of personal injury action that allows surviving family members to recover compensation for the financial losses they have suffered. These damages can include lost wages, medical expenses, loss of companionship and emotional distress, among other things.
The laws governing wrongful death cases vary from state to state, so it is important to seek the advice of an experienced New York wrongful death attorney to ensure that your claim is filed correctly and on time. There are a number of issues to consider, such as establishing legal responsibility, proving causation and the value of your claim.
Losing a loved one is an unimaginable tragedy. It can be especially devastating when that person died in an accident caused by another party’s negligence, incompetence or malice. An experienced wrongful death lawyer will provide compassionate representation and help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your loved one’s wrongful death.
Proving Fault in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
In order to win your wrongful death case, you will need to prove that the defendant was legally responsible for your loved one’s death and that his or her negligence or misconduct caused your damages. This usually involves proving that the defendant had a duty to provide your loved one with an accepted standard of care and that he or she breached this obligation by failing to do so.
Your wrongful death attorney will also help you prove that your loved one was entitled to compensation for any specific damages he or she incurred as a result of the defendant’s actions. Damages that you can recover include pain and suffering, medical expenses, funeral costs, lost wages, and future lost earnings.
What Are the Typical Costs in a Wrongful Death Case?
In most wrongful death cases, there are substantial costs involved in preparing the case. Those costs can include hiring expert witnesses to review the evidence and write reports, depositions and trial testimony. These can range from tens of thousands of dollars to millions of dollars, depending on the type of case.
A competent wrongful death attorney will guide you through the entire process, from preparing your case to filing it in court and negotiating with opposing counsel on your behalf. They will keep you informed on all aspects of your wrongful death case and ensure that you receive the compensation that you need to recover from the wrongful death of your loved one.
Taking the time to ask questions will make your experience easier as you work with an experienced New York wrongful death attorney. This will foster a positive relationship between you and your attorney and ensure that you understand the details of your case.