Wrongful Death Claims Require the Help of a Wrongful Death Lawyer
The loss of a loved one due to another person’s negligent or reckless behavior is devastating for family members. In addition to grief and sorrow, families may also face financial hardship in the wake of the tragedy. This is especially true if the death caused substantial medical expenses or loss of income. In such cases, a wrongful death lawyer can help family members seek fair compensation for their losses.
A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit filed on behalf of the victims of a fatal accident or incident. This type of lawsuit is independent from any criminal charges brought by authorities in the wake of the incident. A successful wrongful death suit can result in compensation for damages such as lost income, funeral costs, and the loss of companionship and love.
The person who files a wrongful death suit is typically the estate administrator or executor of the deceased person’s estate. The surrogate court will issue letters of administration to this party, who will then serve as the plaintiff in the lawsuit. This person will represent all beneficiaries or heirs of the deceased individual in the case. If the deceased did not name an executor or administrator in their will, the courts will assign someone to act as the representative in the wrongful death case.
In most states, the beneficiaries of a wrongful death claim include the surviving spouse and children, as well as other relatives who were dependent on the deceased for support. These relatives can include life partners, putative spouses, and other close relationships. Some states even allow distant relatives such as siblings and grandparents to file a wrongful death suit for the loss of care and companionship that they suffered due to the victim’s death.
Wrongful death cases involving trucking companies can be very complex and require the help of an experienced wrongful death attorney to ensure that the interests of the family are fully represented. These types of cases often involve large, multi-national corporations and can be lengthy and drawn out. A wrongful death lawyer can assist with these cases by representing the family during settlement negotiations or in trial.
A wrongful death lawyer can also pursue a case against an establishment that serves alcohol to individuals who later cause fatal drunk driving accidents. New York law allows families to sue under this statute, known as the Dram Shop Act. A wrongful death attorney can investigate the case, determine which parties may be held liable and aggressively pursue the case against all responsible establishments.
If you are seeking justice for the wrongful death of a loved one, contact a wrongful death lawyer at Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP today to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced legal team has handled thousands of wrongful death claims and can help you pursue fair compensation for your losses. We have offices in Monroe, Albany, Schenectady, and Troy and serve clients throughout Western New York. Call us toll-free at 877-529-8320 to set up your free case review.