Skip to main content

Wrongful Death

What do you need to know before filing a wrongful death case?

Posted Oct 12, 2018 by Matt Boulton

Wrongful death lawsuits are most often filed by those who are closely released to the deceased. The person who died may have lost his or her life due to negligence or misconduct. As a result, the family believes the situation falls under state wrongful death statutes.

A wrongful death lawsuit involves making a claim for compensation. The family may be seeking monetary compensation to help them with losses they’ve experienced due to the individual’s death. Regardless of the cause of the incident and whether it was intentional or not, families may pursue a claim against the responsible party.

Wrongful death cases may be filed before or after criminal trials, However, if there is a conviction, families have a better chance of obtaining compensation. If the other party wins the criminal trial, that doesn’t mean that a family can’t still pursue a claim and win. There is a lower burden of proof for a civil case than there is for a criminal case.

What damages can you seek for a wrongful death?

Some of the damages you can seek include medical expenses, compensation for the loss of inheritance, compensation for pain and suffering, loss of love or affection or the loss of support. You can also claim for funeral or burial expenses.

In all cases, wrongful death claims are limited by a statute of limitations. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to pursue a claim. It’s wise to talk to someone who can help you file a case as soon as possible after a loved one’s death to avoid running into problems with the statute of limitations.

Talk to Attorney Matt Boulton Today

Schedule your free case consultation with one of Indiana’s most experienced personal injury attorneys

Free Case Review

Source: The Balance, “Wrongful Death and Liability Policies,” Marianne Bonner, accessed Jan. 15, 2018

Matt Boulton

Author Matt Boulton

Attorney Matt Boulton is an award-winning personal injury attorney with more than 25 years of experience helping seriously injured people throughout Indiana. He designed his firm for the client who expects exceptional service and passionate, successful legal representation.

Related Articles