A wrongful death is tragic and it can take some time to come to terms with what happened. When it does occur, the loved ones left behind may be able to receive compensation for the death to help them with any expenses related to it. This could include funeral costs, medical bills, lost income, and a lot more. It is important for those who have had a loved one pass because of a wrongful death to speak with a lawyer so they can get the help they need.
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Secure the Scene and Gather Evidence
It is crucial to secure the scene and gather evidence if possible. There may be some situations where this is not possible, but if it is, the person seeking a wrongful death claim should gather as much evidence as they can. This may include medical records, photos of what happened, phone numbers for witnesses who can provide a statement, and more. A wrongful death lawyer can help with gathering evidence if needed, as they may be able to get evidence the average person can’t. They’ll then use this to prove a wrongful death occurred and determine the amount of compensation owed by the at-fault party.
Find Out Who Can File a Claim
Not anyone can file a wrongful death claim in most states. It’s important to make sure the right person is filing the claim, as it can be denied if the person is not allowed to file the claim through the courts. In most states, the claimant must be the next of kin for the deceased. This is typically the spouse, parents, or children of the person who died, though it can be others if the deceased was not married and didn’t have kids. A lawyer can help determine the next of kin for the case.
File a Claim and Work Through Negotiations
Once the evidence is gathered and the case is prepared, it’s time to file the claim and work through negotiations. The claim must be filed with the courts and the at-fault party must be served properly before anything else can happen. Once this does happen, the lawyer will start negotiations with the at-fault party or their lawyer. During negotiations, the two parties may agree on a settlement amount to cover the case. If this happens, the case is over. If this doesn’t happen, though, the case may go to court and be decided by a judge.
Keep Track of the Case as it Progresses
Wrongful death cases can take a long time to complete, regardless of whether they’re settled or go to court. The lawyer will help through all of this to ensure their client understands what is happening, how long it can take, and what will come next. They can answer any questions the person has and make sure they are continuously updated with any new information to ensure the client can make the right decisions when needed for the case.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to a wrongful death, the at-fault party may be liable for compensation. This can help you get the finances needed to handle everything following your loved one’s death. Take the time to schedule a consultation with a wrongful death lawyer today to learn more about how they can help you.
If you’re struggling after a wrongful death, remember you’re not alone. For more clear legal advice, visit the NextMagazine legal section.
