When Is It Time to Contact a Wrongful Death Attorney?

by | Mar 22, 2016 | Attorney

Many people have heard that a person can sue a liable party for compensation for their loved one’s death. However, many people don’t know exactly when it’s appropriate and necessary to contact a wrongful death attorney for help. In general, there are two different cases that fall under wrongful death, and a person who’s situation fits into either of these will want to contact an attorney to see if they have a case.

Death Due to Negligence
The most common type of wrongful death case is one based on negligence. In these cases, the next of kin needs to show that the person who caused the death owed the victim a duty of care, that they were negligent in that duty, and that the negligence caused the person’s death. Cases due to negligence typically involve all other personal injury type cases including car accidents, dog attacks, medical malpractice, product liability, slip and falls, and workplace injuries.

Death Due to a Direct Action
Murder is also a reason to sue for wrongful death. These cases are not the same as the criminal case for the person who committed the murder, and a not-guilty verdict in criminal court is not going to have an effect on the civil case for wrongful death. However, a guilty verdict can be used to help meet the preponderance of evidence needed to show the person was legally responsible for the victim’s death. Although this is a viable reason to sue for wrongful death, the lawsuits due to negligence are more common.

If a person has died because of the negligence or direct action of another person or business, the next of kin may have a case for wrongful death and may be able to receive compensation for the death of their loved one. Typically, this compensation includes medical bills, funeral bills, and lost wages. Anyone who is wondering if they have a case for wrongful death will want to meet with a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. The attorney can help them determine if a case is going to be successful and, if so, how much the person might receive. For more information, visit Autoaccidentattorneyhonolulu.com today.

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