Families who have suffered the unexpected and wrongful death of a loved one have legal protections available to them that they should be aware of. A wrongful death claim for damages may be able to help with some of the financial and emotional damages associated with their loss.
Wrongful death damages
Losing a loved one is unthinkable and is one of the most difficult experiences anyone can face. Wrongful death damages can include help for lost earnings and lost prospect of inheritance. They can also include damages for loss of support and services and loss of companionship. Compensation for medical and funeral expenses may also be available.
Overall, it is important to keep in mind that wrongful death damages are based on the circumstances and characteristics of the victim. When determining damages, the age, life expectancy, health, intelligence, character, and earning capacity of the lost loved one all come into play. The circumstances of the heirs may also be considered.
Wrongful death claim
A wrongful death claim can be brought following the loss of a loved one against the negligent party responsible for the loss. The claim is brought by the lost loved one’s estate for the benefit of the surviving heirs. Surviving spouses, domestic partners, children and some others may be able to recover wrongful death damages through a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death legal protections exist to help victims cope with some of the burden associated with the unexpected loss of a loved one and, therefore, surviving family members should be familiar with these legal protections.