A wrongful death claim usually occurs when someone passes due to negligence or intentional action. It’s common with criminal cases and can provide loved ones with the compensation they deserve. However, several key factors have to be in place for the lawsuit to succeed. Consider the following before meeting with a lawyer.

When Is a Lawsuit Applicable?

Any situation where death was the result of another person’s actions could be eligible for a lawsuit. Medical malpractice is one example. If evidence shows that the doctor failed to diagnose a condition or didn’t reveal the risks of surgery, the family can seek compensation for their loss.

Car accidents are also eligible. You have to prove that the other driver wasn’t paying attention or intentionally ran into your loved one’s vehicle.

Who Can File a Claim?

According to Connecticut law, all documents must go through a representative of the estate, such as a local attorney. The family must file a claim within two years of the incident unless they can prove that they weren’t aware of the negligence until after the deadline.

Five years is the final cutoff for filing a wrongful death claim. If you suspect anything, reach out to a professional attorney immediately to start the process. 

What Are Damages?

These are the factors that determine the final amount of compensation that the family will receive. For example, if the deceased was the sole provider, loss of income will become a major part of the lawsuit. The court will also account for any suffering or medical treatments that the deceased underwent, as well as funeral costs and loss of companionship.

If you’ve recently experienced the loss of a loved one and suspect wrongful death, reach out to Law Office of T.J. Morelli-Wolfe, PC, in Norwich, CT. They have over 20 years of experience with personal injury cases and tailor their services to meet their clients’ needs. With a quick response time and a commitment to seeking justice, they’re ready to take your case. Visit their website for additional information on their areas of expertise, or call (860) 859-9899 to request a free consultation.