Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Serious accidents can lead to major injuries and changes in the overall quality of one's life. In some cases, these major accidents can prove fatal. This is why it's so important to have skilled lawyers working with you, such as the ones here at the Law Office of Gary A. Zucker & Associates, P.C.. Our wrongful death and personal injury attorneys work closely with clients, helping them make the best decisions with regard to all of their legal options.
Right now we'd like to consider some basics about wrongful death lawsuits, particularly who can file them. These matters are important to consider following the loss of a family member or close loved one.
About Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Wrongful death lawsuits are filed following the loss of a loved one due to another person's negligence. The lawsuits are meant to cover funerary costs, pain and suffering, lost wages of the loved one, and other hardships while also punishing the responsible party for their actions that led to the fatal accident or incident.
Wrongful Death Lawsuits Filed by Immediate Family Members
Members of the deceased's immediate family (i.e., parents and siblings) are often those who file a wrongful death lawsuit. If a surgeon makes a critical mistake during surgery that leads to the death of a son, for instance, the parents of the victim will often seek damages in a wrongful death lawsuit.
Wrongful Death Lawsuits Filed by Spouses, Partners, Dependents
Spouses, partners, and any financial dependents also commonly file wrongful death lawsuits. If an auto accident with another vehicle results in the death of a woman's husband, for example, she can file a wrongful death claim against the negligent motorist.
Rules for Other Relationships to the Deceased
In general, the only other people who can file a wrongful death lawsuit apart from those who are specified above are representatives from the estate of the deceased as specified by the deceased's will. Some states have laws on the books that allow distant family relations or anyone who suffers financially from the death to file a lawsuit, but these cases tend to be rare or fit within very strict sets of parameters.
If you have lost someone close to you and wonder if you can file a wrongful death lawsuit, be sure to check in with our team. We will be sure to note the various circumstances of your case and provide you with sound legal advice regarding these matters.
How Our Legal Team Can Help You
We know that the loss of a loved one can be extremely difficult on you, which is why we take great effort in helping all of our clients achieve peace of mind. We will focus on the nuances of the legal system while you can focus on coping, mourning, and moving forward. Do not go it alone with legal matters of any kind. Rely on the team at the Law Office of Gary A. Zucker & Associates, P.C..
Learn More About Wrongful Death Lawsuits
If you would like to learn more about your legal options following the loss of a loved one, be sure to contact our Brooklyn, New York wrongful death and personal injury attorneys today. The team at the Law Office of Gary A. Zucker & Associates, P.C. will help you negotiate the nuances of the legal process and help you make wise legal choices.