A wrongful death lawyer is someone who can assist a family with the aftermath of a loved one’s untimely passing. They can help to ease the grief, figure out liability, advise of legal rights and file a lawsuit on behalf of the family members to seek compensation for a range of losses stemming from their relative’s untimely death. They may also consult with relevant experts to ensure that the full extent of your family’s financial losses is recognized and included in the claim.
Wrongful deaths occur in a variety of settings and circumstances, but the majority are caused by negligent actions. These actions can include but are not limited to driving while distracted, speeding, and ignoring traffic signals or warning signs. Regardless of the specific circumstances, the at-fault parties often have powerful insurance companies and lawyers who will do everything they can to prevent the victim’s loved ones from recovering fair compensation for their losses.
An experienced wrongful death lawyer will have the knowledge and skills to successfully navigate a case through both criminal and civil proceedings. In some cases, a person will be criminally charged for their actions that led to your family member’s death, while in others the wrongful death action will be separate from any criminal prosecutions. It is important to have a lawyer that has experience with both civil and criminal cases related to wrongful deaths because they can provide the necessary advice and guidance to their clients as the case progresses.
A good wrongful death lawyer will be able to build a strong case based on evidence and testimony. They will also be able to negotiate with the insurance companies and represent the interests of their clients to obtain the maximum amount of compensation for the loss of a loved one. Wrongful death cases are complicated matters that can become emotional and stressful for their clients, so a lawyer should be compassionate but not too overwhelmed by the situation.
In a wrongful death case, the personal representative of your deceased loved one’s estate can pursue compensation for the loss of their income, property and services and for the pain and suffering of their relatives. The type of damages available will vary from state to state, but New York’s wrongful death law allows for compensation to cover a wide range of losses.
In addition to compensating you for your economic losses, a skilled wrongful death lawyer can also fight for exemplary or punitive damages. These are meant to punish the wrongdoer for their egregious actions. In order to recover these types of damages, your wrongful death lawyer must be able to present convincing evidence that their client’s behavior was outrageous and unwarranted. The attorneys at Shaevitz & Shaevitz have the expertise to evaluate your case and fight for maximum compensation for your losses. If we are unable to recover money for you, we do not charge any fees. Contact us now for a free consultation about your losses and the possibility of filing a wrongful death suit.