Wrongful Death Lawyer

When a loved one dies due to the negligence or intentional actions of another party, the idea of pursuing a wrongful death case may seem far too stressful to entertain for long. Yet, as an experienced wrongful death lawyer – including those who practice at Council & Associates, LLC – can confirm, making this effort can potentially allow families to pursue justice and compensation so that at least some of the consequences of another’s wrongful actions are mitigated. These are a few of the considerations that you may want to keep in mind as you mull whether pursuing legal action is in your family’s best interests now and moving forward.  

Potential Compensation

One factor to consider when evaluating the worth of filing a wrongful death case is the potential compensation that may be awarded. While financial compensation cannot undo the loss or bring back a loved one, it can provide some level of financial stability for surviving loved ones:

• Medical Expenses and Funeral Costs: A successful wrongful death case can help cover medical expenses incurred before the passing of the loved one, as well as funeral and burial costs. These expenses can often be significant, and compensation can alleviate the financial burden on a family.
• Loss of Income and Support: Wrongful death cases may seek compensation for the loss of financial support resulting from the loved one’s death. This can include lost wages, benefits, and future earning potential. For families who relied on the deceased for financial stability, this compensation can provide necessary support.
• Non-Economic Damages: In some cases, wrongful death cases may also include compensation for non-economic damages, such as loss of companionship, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. 

Accountability and Justice

Filing a wrongful death case can serve as a means to hold a responsible party accountable for their consequential actions or inactions:

• Establishing Liability: Through a wrongful death lawsuit, evidence can be presented to establish that the defendant’s actions or negligence directly caused the death. This process can shed light on the circumstances surrounding the incident and help determine who should be held responsible.
• Deterrence and Prevention: Pursuing legal action can act as a deterrent to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. By holding the responsible party accountable, it sends a message that negligence or wrongful actions will not go unnoticed, potentially prompting changes in behavior or practices.
• Sense of Justice: Filing a wrongful death case can provide a sense of justice for the surviving family members. It allows them to have their day in court, voice their grievances, and seek closure through a legal process. It can be an important step in seeking acknowledgement and validation for their loss.

Closure and Healing

For many families, the process of filing a wrongful death case can offer a sense of closure and aid in the healing process:

• Truth and Understanding: The legal process allows for a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the loved one’s death. Obtaining a clearer understanding of what happened can provide a sense of closure and help in the healing process.
• Advocacy and Empowerment: Filing a wrongful death case allows the surviving family members to advocate for their loved one and fight for justice on their behalf. This active involvement in seeking accountability can empower families and aid in their healing journey.
• Emotional Relief: Engaging in legal action can provide emotional relief for some family members. It offers a proactive way to channel grief and anger, providing an outlet for emotions and enabling them to take greater control of their circumstances.

Determining the worth of filing a wrongful death case requires careful consideration. While the decision ultimately rests with the family, understanding these factors can help them make an informed decision about their rights and options under the law.