A Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help You File a Lawsuit
If someone else caused your death, you can file a wrongful death lawsuit against the liable party. There are many requirements that must be met in such a lawsuit. A successful wrongful death claim requires compelling evidence. This can be gathered through document requests, depositions, and investigators. A wrongful death attorney will also challenge the other side’s defenses.
Lawsuits for wrongful death
A lawsuit for wrongful death can be filed when the death of a loved one caused a substantial financial loss to the decedent’s family, with the help of a wrongful death attorney in Utah. While each case is unique, economic losses may include medical bills and lost wages. The surviving family may also suffer financial loss due to pain and suffering. In most cases, the wrongful death case will be filed on behalf of the children of the deceased.
In some states, a person’s life partner or putative spouse may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Other family members, including grandchildren or unmarried parents, may also file a wrongful death suit.
Damages in a wrongful death claim
Damages in a wrongful death claim are based on a number of factors. The court may take into account factors like the deceased person’s income and future potential, medical bills, and other non-monetary contributions. It may also try to determine the life expectancy and health of the deceased. Additionally, the damages can include loss of companionship.
The court can award compensatory or punitive damages. These types of damages are designed to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future. Although punitive damages are not allowed in most states, they may be awarded in some circumstances.
Statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits in Utah
A statute of limitations determines how long you have to file a lawsuit in New York State. If you fail to file your lawsuit on time, you may lose it. Fortunately, there are certain situations that can suspend the statute of limitations. For example, if your spouse or child died in a car accident, you may still be able to file a wrongful death claim.
In Utah, you have two years to file a lawsuit if your loved one died as the result of another person’s negligence. For claims against public entities, like a town, city, or county, the statute of limitations is two years. But if you are suing a hospital, doctor, or other entity, the statute of limitations is usually extended to two years and six months.
Family member’s responsibility for bringing a wrongful death lawsuit
A wrongful death lawsuit is filed by a family member of a deceased person in order to recover compensation for their loved one’s death. These lawsuits typically seek monetary compensation from the party responsible for the wrongful death. The most common scenarios include car accidents caused by drunk drivers, medical malpractice, defective products, and physical attacks. The law gives wrongful death attorneys plenty of latitude when determining which parties can be sued.
A wrongful death lawsuit may be brought by a surviving spouse, adult child, or personal representative of the deceased. The law varies slightly by state. In most states, the surviving spouse brings the suit on behalf of the decedent’s heirs and children. However, in some states, a civil union member can bring a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of their partner.