Caring And Dedicated Legal Representation In Florida Wrongful Death Claims
Perhaps nothing in life can compare with the overwhelming grief of losing someone you love – especially if that person’s death was untimely and preventable. While no amount of money could bring back the person you lost, there are nonetheless very real costs associated with the death of a family member. When someone else is to blame for a loved one’s death, compensation is both appropriate and necessary.
I am Jennifer Felipe, founder of Felipe Law. With the help of my skilled and caring team of support staff, I will help you seek accountability and financial relief after losing someone you love to the negligence of another person, business or organization. We are honored to help clients with this difficult but important work. When you entrust us with your case, you can expect nothing less than full dedication, open communication and personalized service throughout the duration of your case.
What Is A Wrongful Death Claim And Who Can Serve As A Plaintiff?
If someone is injured by another person’s negligent or intentional actions, they can sue the other party for personal injury. A wrongful death lawsuit is like a personal injury claim and stems from many of the same actions: a car accident, medical malpractice, dangerous premises, a defective product or even a violent crime. However, there are some important differences between the two. First, the victim’s injuries resulted in death. Second, because the victim is deceased, someone must file the suit on their behalf.
Each state sets its own laws regarding who has the legal right to sue for wrongful death. In Florida, only the executor (personal representative) of the victim’s estate can serve as plaintiff in a wrongful death claim. They would be suing on behalf of the estate and the victim’s family.
Compensating The Victim’s Dependents And Family Members
Most of the damages in a wrongful death lawsuit are awarded to the victim’s family members, while some are awarded to the estate itself (and might then be distributed to the victim’s heirs and beneficiaries). We can help you seek maximum compensation for damages that include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical costs and injury-related expenses up until the time of death
- Lost wages that the victim experienced between the date of injury and the date of death
- Loss of lifetime earnings and benefits that the victim likely would have earned had they lived a full life
- Pain and suffering (of the victim)
- Loss of companionship, parental companionship and protection (for family members)
- Loss of support and services (for family members)
- Any other costs, expenses or losses incurred by the estate
It can feel overwhelming to think about taking legal action while also trying to grieve the loss of a loved one. However, you only have a short time to pursue compensation. In Florida, the statute of limitations in wrongful death matters is two years from the date of death. Therefore, it is important to retain an attorney as soon as reasonably possible.
Tell Us Your Story And Learn How We Can Help
To discuss your legal options in a free consultation, please contact us online or call 305-564-9879. We have office locations in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, and we serve clients throughout South Florida. Hablamos español.
