What is Wrongful Death?

Wrongful death law is an area of law that seeks to provide financial compensation to the heirs of a person whose death was caused by the negligent, willful, or wrongful act, neglect, omission, or default of another.

What laws govern wrongful death?

Each state has drafted its own set of civil "wrongful death statutes," and some form of wrongful death claim action exists in all state jurisdictions today. While they all follow similar principles, each state jurisdiction is unique, so laws will vary from state to state. There are no federal statutes for wrongful death.

Under what circumstances could a wrongful death occur?

A wrongful death could occur as a result of a variety of situations, including:

• Medical malpractice that results in decedent's death.
• Neglect or abuse on the part of a nursing home that results in decendent's death.
• Automobile, bus, train airplane or other common carrier accident.
• Occupational exposure to hazardous conditions or substances (exposure to asbestos, etc.).
• Death during a supervised activity (sports tournament, field trip, etc.).

How are wrongful death lawsuits filed?

An action for wrongful death alleges that the decedent was killed as a result of the negligence (or other liability) on the defendant's part, and that the decedent's immediate family members (often called "distributees") are entitled to monetary damages as a result of the defendant's conduct. The most common distributees are surviving spouses and children, and sometimes parents. A suit for wrongful death may only be brought by the personal representative (executor) of the decedent's estate. But, actions for personal injury (survival actions), conscious pain and suffering, or expenses incurred prior to the decedent's death are also typically brought.

What damages are awarded in a wrongful death lawsuit?

Pecuniary (financial) injury is the main way damages in a wrongful death action are awarded. Courts have interpreted "pecuniary injuries" as including the loss of support, services, lost prospect of inheritance, and medical and funeral expenses. Damages also typically include interest from the date of the decedent's death. Punitive damages may also be awarded in cases of serious or malicious wrong-doing to punish the wrong-doer, and/or deter others from behaving similarly.

How are damages awarded?

Any damages awarded belong to the estate and pass as directed by the decedent's will or by state law if such things are not specified in the will.

Should I hire a Wrongful Death Attorney?

If a loved one has died after an accident or injury caused by the negligence or misconduct of another individual, company or entity, you should retain an experienced wrongful death attorney right away. There are time limitations in filing your wrongful death lawsuit, as well as other legal implications. Contact a qualified Lead Counsel wrongful death lawyer to provide legal advice on your needs and legal situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What damages are awarded in a wrongful death lawsuit?
  Pecuniary (financial) injury is the main way damages in a wrongful death action are awarded. Courts have interpreted "pecuniary injuries" as including the loss of support, services, lost … more
• Are There Limits To How Much I Can Recover For Wrongful Death?
  Some states have set limits on the amount of money that can be recovered in a wrongful death action.  The amounts can also be set by international treaties (for passengers on international … more
• What Is A Wrongful Death Claim?
  Wrongful death is defined as the taking of the life of an individual resulting from the willful or negligent act of another person or persons. more
• What Can I Bring A Wrongful Death Claim?
  When a victim is killed because of someone/something’s negligence or unjust action the victim’s survivors are entitled to monetary damages as a result of the improper conduct. This … more
• What laws govern wrongful death?
  Each state has drafted its own set of civil "wrongful death statutes," and some form of wrongful death claim action exists in all state jurisdictions today. While they all follow similar … more

Free Legal Forms

• Statement of Damages
  Statement of Damages (Personal Injury or Wrongful Death) For California Court (CIV-050)