When a family member passes away from an injury or illness as a result of someone else’s intentional or negligent actions, it may be possible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. The time after a loved one’s passing is devastating and the thought of filing a lawsuit can be overwhelming, but it’s important to act quickly. A wrongful death lawyer in West Palm Beach, FL, will review your case and recommend a plan of action.
Who Files a Wrongful Death Claim?
Wrongful death lawsuits are covered by a complex system of codes and laws. For instance, Florida’s laws only allow certain people to file these claims, such as:
Surviving spouses
Surviving children
Other relatives receiving financial support
Wrongful Death Damages: How They’re Claimed
If a person’s death is considered wrongful, his or her relatives will sustain damages. Most losses are economic, but non-physical and emotional damages may make you eligible for compensation. A spouse who loses his or her significant other may be entitled to damages for loss of companionship or consortium, and children under 25 can make claims for loss of financial support in the event of a parent’s death.
Distributing Damages in a Wrongful Death Case
When wrongful death lawsuits are adjudicated or settled, damages aren’t always granted to individuals but instead may be granted to their estates. An estate representative must distribute those damages without profiting from the distribution.
If a loved one has passed away because of someone’s negligent acts, you should consult a wrongful death lawyer in West Palm Beach, FL. State law is complex and difficult to navigate on your own, so hire an attorney who will explain its intricacies in an easy-to-understand way. Call Janssen Siracusa & Keegan PLLC or visit us online at to schedule a no-obligation consultation with a wrongful death attorney in your area today.
