The death of a loved one is always hard, but when it’s a wrongful death that happens because of someone else’s actions or negligence, it seems even worse. In some cases, the grieving family may be able to file a suit for the wrongful death against the responsible party.
Work with an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Sacramento to help you navigate the case and better understand your options.
What is a Wrongful Death?
A wrongful death happens when someone is killed based on another party’s negligence or misconduct. In these cases, there may be medical bills, funeral costs, loss of household income, and other expenses that the family is left trying to deal with. That’s where filing a suit may be helpful.
There are many different types of wrongful deaths, which include car accidents, medical malpractice, premise liability, and additional incidents. These components are an important part of wrongful death claims:
- Someone died due to negligence
- Wrongful death led to suffering (mental or emotional distress, monetary, etc.)
- Defendant violated responsibility willfully, deliberately, or with recklessness
- Defendant was legally required to provide reasonable care or follow certain actions and failed to do so
A wrongful death claim may be filed by a surviving spouse, child, or immediate family members. An estate representative may also file a wrongful death claim in some cases.
Wrongful Death Claim Processes
There are certain steps to follow when you file a wrongful death claim. Your case will require evidence, and the legal proceedings will take some time. Work with a qualified lawyer to help you with your wrongful death case.
Here is a quick overview of the general steps. While every case will be unique in detail, these steps will remain similar:
- Collection of evidence to back the wrongful death claim
- Complaint filed in civil court for defendant to be served
- Discovery requires both parties to share information with each other
- A mediator or the court will hear both sides and evidence will be presented
- The case may go to trial if no settlement is reached
- The defendant has the option to appeal when the plaintiff wins a judgment
How Does a Wrongful Death Lawyer Help?
Just as you would go to a professional stylist to get your hair done, you should go to a professional lawyer for a court case. Lawyers are trained to understand court processes and know what it takes to help you with your case. They are familiar with the process, your rights, and what you might be able to get from this case.
When you hire a lawyer, look for these characteristics:
- Experience with wrongful death cases
- Consultation options
- Provision of legal counsel
- Consistent interaction and advisement
- Assistance investigating and collecting evidence
- Knowledge of maximum compensation
- Willingness to fight for maximum compensation
- Professionalism and customer service
A Sacramento wrongful death lawyer who is qualified to take your case will help you every step of the way. You are not alone in this.
