Losing a loved one is an unimaginable tragedy, especially when it’s due to the negligence or misconduct of another. During these challenging times, Bernard Law Group’s experienced wrongful death lawyers are here to help you with the financial burden your loved one’s untimely death may have caused.
While no amount of money can replace someone you love, the compensation recovered can help you begin to rebuild your life and fill in the financial gaps their death caused.
What Constitutes a Wrongful Death Case?
A wrongful death occurs when the wrongful act, neglect, or default of another causes a person’s death. This broad definition encompasses a range of scenarios, from car accidents caused by negligent drivers to fatal incidents due to unsafe work conditions.
In Washington State, the law stipulates specific criteria that must be met for a case to be considered a wrongful death. Because the laws can be difficult to understand, it is important to have an attorney helping you through this process.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Washington State?
The laws governing wrongful death lawsuits in Washington are specific about who has the legal right to file a claim. Understanding these regulations is crucial for families who have lost a loved one due to the negligence or wrongful act of another party.
Primary Claimants: Immediate Family Members
The law gives priority to immediate family members. This typically includes the deceased’s spouse or registered domestic partner.
They are considered the primary claimants and have the first right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. In cases where the deceased was unmarried and without a domestic partner, the right to sue may extend to their children or stepchildren.
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Secondary Claimants: Parents and Siblings
In situations where the deceased has no spouse, domestic partner, children, or stepchildren, the opportunity to file a claim extends to the parents and siblings of the deceased. This provision is particularly relevant for cases involving unmarried individuals without direct descendants.
Legal Representation and Estate Involvement
If the deceased had a will, the executor or personal representative of their estate might also have the authority to file a wrongful death claim. This is often the case when there are complicated estate matters or when no immediate family members are available or willing to file the lawsuit. The compensation awarded in such cases typically goes into the estate and is distributed according to the deceased’s will or state succession laws.
The Importance of a Wrongful Death Lawyer
Navigating the aftermath of a loved one’s untimely death is challenging, especially when it involves complex legal proceedings. A wrongful death lawyer is an advocate for your legal rights and a guide through the intricate process of seeking justice and compensation.
Our lawyers have over three decades of experience helping the families of accident victims recover the compensation they are entitled to.
Bernard Law Group’s Approach
We approach every wrongful death case with a unique combination of compassion and legal process. Our philosophy centers around understanding each client’s individual story, and we tailor our legal strategies to reflect each case’s specific circumstances and needs.
We have a track record of success, marked by significant settlements and verdicts, which speak to our commitment to achieving justice for our clients.
Legal Process and Timeline
The process of a wrongful death lawsuit can be intricate and varies depending on the specifics of each case. Generally, it begins with investigating the death and filing a lawsuit.
Critical stages include discovery, mediation, and potentially a trial. While timelines can vary, our team ensures that every step is taken with precision and timely execution, keeping our clients informed and involved.
Compensation in Wrongful Death Cases
In wrongful death cases, the compensation typically covers economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical expenses, funeral costs, and loss of future earnings, while non-economic damages encompass pain and suffering and loss of companionship.
We Can Help with Your Wrongful Death Claim
At Bernard Law Group, our commitment to our clients extends beyond the courtroom. We understand the profound impact of losing a loved one and strive to provide not just legal representation but also a source of strength and support during these challenging times. If you are facing the aftermath of a wrongful death, contact us to discuss how we can assist you.
