Family members are able to ask questions and tell us more about the accident, and our legal team will provide them with the options they have going forward.
Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Washington, D.C.
When a family member dies because of another’s negligence and a claim is filed, it is referred to as a wrongful death lawsuit. Aside from the emotional upheaval the family member’s death brings to their loved ones, it can also result in their inability to pay household bills, among other things. This article will explore the meaning of wrongful death, how family members can file a lawsuit against the negligent party and how a personal injury lawyer can help.
The Roeser Law Firm – Filing Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Many clients cross our threshold after their loved one dies due to negligence or intentional acts. They seek justice for their loved ones who were killed by another person or entity. Some families are unable to meet their bills, including rent and mortgage payments, without the monetary support the decedent provided.
The investigators at the Roeser Law Firm examine the accident for evidence proving liability whether it is a car crash or an unsafe auto part. We compassionately interact with family members at the free case review we offer. Family members are able to ask questions and tell us more about the accident, and our legal team will provide them with the options they have going forward. Call us at (202) 660-4070 to schedule a free case review. You can also reach out to us online.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
While the lawsuit is filed by the estate executor within the two-year time limit to file, certain family members who have survived the decedent’s demise can be included in the claim in Washington, D.C. They are:
- The spouse of the decedent
- Children of the decedent
- Parents, siblings and other survivors
Intentional Acts and Wrongful Death
Intentional acts resulting in the victim’s death can be the focus of a wrongful death lawsuit. The Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman murders are a well-known example. The families of a victim murdered intentionally can file a wrongful death lawsuit. In fact, the evidence presented in the civil claim can mirror that provided in the criminal trial. It does not matter if the person was found innocent or convicted. In addition, the evidence in a murder trial is expected to be beyond a reasonable doubt, unlike that of a civil case.
Damages in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Some of the damages that can be recovered in a wrongful death lawsuit are listed below:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of wages the person would have earned until his or her retirement
- Bonuses and other workplace perks
- The costs of household tasks performed by the decedent before their demise
- Loss of the love and companionship the decedent provided
- Loss of education and guidance the deceased would have provided
Investigating a Wrongful Death
Since liability for the wrongful death must be proven, we send our investigators to the scene of the accident or other incident. They explore how it happened and document that with solid evidence. If the wrongful death was due to product liability, the investigators will examine the product and see if other deaths resulted from a manufacturing defect. Once all the evidence is accumulated, our lawyers will build a strong case against the defendant.
Roeser Law Firm
Our investigative and legal teams at the Roeser Law Firm work hard to bring a strong case against the at-fault party in a wrongful death. We have all faced the loss of someone we loved and understand the anger you feel and your need for justice. By filing a wrongful death lawsuit, you are placing the wrongdoer on notice. Let us help you by calling (202) 660-4070 today.
