There were over 220,000 unintentional deaths in 2021. Incidents like these occur due to a variety of factors, such as reckless driving, negligence, etc.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim.
To get the compensation you deserve, it’s crucial to hire a wrongful death attorney. Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know when filing a wrongful death lawsuit.
1. Receive Compensation
Without a reputable wrongful death lawyer on your side, it can be hard to get the compensation you deserve.
In some states, you may be able to receive financial compensation for medical expenses and funeral costs. Other losses like lost wages or earning potential may be considered, as well.
However, in Alabama, the plaintiff may only seek punitive damages under a wrongful death claim. These are meant to punish the defendant so they don’t make the same mistake again and to deter other people from committing similar acts. Alabama does not allow for the recovery of compensatory damages under a wrongful death claim.
2. Build a Strong Case
It’s essential to build a strong case if you want to receive the compensation you deserve.
To do this, your wrongful death lawyer will collect evidence related to the incident. They’ll research police reports, medical records, and witness accounts.
They may also interview the defendant. Your attorney will use this evidence to prove that the defendant was responsible for your loved one’s death.
Your lawyer must prove that there was a breach of duty and that this breach directly led to the wrongful death.
3. Navigate Legal Procedures
It’s no secret that the legal system is complex.
Wrongful death cases involve a variety of legal procedures, and it’s not always easy to understand them all. Your attorney can help you navigate the legal process so that you don’t get lost in the system.
They’ll know when to file the necessary paperwork and when to make the right arguments in court.
4. Set Up an Estate
An estate is necessary for those that want to take legal action against the responsible party.
Your wrongful death lawyer can help you set up an estate so that all of your loved one’s assets are accounted for. They may also advise you on how to handle potential disputes with creditors or other family members outside of court.
5. Peace of Mind
You can never neglect peace of mind when dealing with a wrongful death case. Your attorney can provide emotional support and help guide you through difficult decisions. This is especially useful for those who have trouble coping with their loss.
Hire a Wrongful Death Attorney
Working with a wrongful death attorney can go a long way when it comes to getting the results you need.
Just be sure to keep the above information in mind so that you can find the professional who is best for your case. From here, you’ll be able to move forward with the situation.
Looking for more information on how we can help? Feel free to get in touch with us today to see what we can do.