It’s absolutely devastating to lose a loved one. If you have lost a loved one due to another’s negligent act, you and your family may need to file a wrongful death claim to get the compensation you deserve. Jeremiah A. Denton III, P.C. can help. We’re passionate about fighting for the rights of accident victims and their families, and we stop at nothing to demand justice for our clients.
When an individual dies and another person or entity was at fault, the family members of the deceased may be able to seek compensation through a wrongful death claim. These lawsuits may be brought following deaths resulting from car crashes, medical malpractice, defective products, slip and fall accidents, and other causes of fatal personal injuries. Individuals, businesses and government agencies may be at fault for these incidents, either due to intentional actions or a failure to act in a reasonable way to protect others from harm.
There are certain rules as to who can file a wrongful death lawsuit. Parties who may be entitled to compensation include immediate family. A parent, child or spouse of the deceased is the most likely to seek monetary damages through a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death claims originate from the deceased person’s estate, so the appointed representative should usually start the process. Our firm can get the right person named as the decedent’s representative.
The estate’s representative must first identify survivors, which may include children, a spouse and parents. Next, a formal claim is made to pursue compensation from the person or entity believed to have caused the death. That party may wish to settle or engage in litigation.
After the official filing of the lawsuit, the discovery period begins, during which both sides request certain documents and evidence to help support their eventual arguments. The trial takes place, after which a judge or jury issues a verdict.
For the guidance and support you need after the death of a loved one, speak with an experienced wrongful death attorney at Jeremiah A. Denton III, P.C.. Set up an appointment today by calling 757-215-4818 or by contacting us online. We work with injury victims and their families across Virginia.