The passing of a loved one is always difficult for those left behind. These emotions can become even stronger when the death is wrongfully caused by the negligence of another person. In this article, the personal injury attorneys at Stewart Law Offices break down what a wrongful death is, who is entitled to compensation, and how to file a claim.
What is a wrongful death claim?
Wrongful death is defined as “the death of a human being as the result of a wrongful act of another person.” When a wrongful death occurs, the loved ones of the deceased experience extreme emotional distress, as well as financial burden.
A wrongful death claim occurs when family members seek monetary compensation from the party responsible for the death. Wrongful death claims are separate from any criminal charges and allow family members to seek expenses for funeral arrangements, lost wages, pain, suffering, and additional damages resulting from the loss of a loved one.
Who can file a wrongful death claim?
Laws regarding wrongful death differ by state. Usually, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate has the legal right to file a lawsuit. Compensation is given to the victim’s surviving immediate family members, such as their spouse and children. If the deceased was not married and had no children, their parents or other relatives may receive the compensation. Our wrongful death lawyers practice in North Carolina and South Carolina.
Looking for an attorney who can handle fatal accidents?
If you think you may entitled to compensation in the result of a wrongful death, you should contact a wrongful death attorney immediately. Since wrongful death laws are very complex, you will need someone experienced by your side to represent you in the court of law. The injury lawyers at Stewart Law Offices cannot undo what happened, but we can do our best to ease the financial stress caused by this tragedy.
The attorneys at Stewart Law Offices are available for a free initial consultation to answer any questions you might have, and we stay in touch throughout the entire process. If you live in North Carolina or South Carolina and would like to discuss your legal options in the event of a wrongful death, pick up the phone and call us at 866-783-9278.
