Fairfax Wrongful Death Lawyer | Wrongful Death Claims
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Any unexpected death is devastating. Losing a loved one due to the negligence or misconduct of another can leave you grappling with emotional and financial hardships. If another person caused the death of a loved one, you are entitled to receive compensation through a wrongful death claim.

A Fairfax wrongful death lawyer offers the legal guidance and advocacy you need to navigate the claims process. While you may be tempted to pursue a wrongful death claim on your own because you feel that your case is valid and strong, navigating the legal system can be difficult without the help of a seasoned personal injury attorney.

What Are Wrongful Death Claims?

Wrongful death claims are covered under Virginia Code § 8.01-50. In Virginia, a wrongful death claim may arise when another party’s negligence or recklessness causes an individual’s death. Wrongful death claims can result from various situations, such as car accidents, defective products, and intentional acts. Other common legal grounds for a wrongful death claim include:

  • Workplace accidents due to hazardous work conditions or employer negligence
  • Medical malpractice due to errors in medical treatment, misdiagnosis, or surgical mistakes
  • Premises liability due to unsafe property conditions that result in accidents, such as electrocutions or drownings

A Fairfax lawyer can review your case to determine if you have grounds for a wrongful death claim.

Who Can Pursue a Wrongful Death Claim

A Fairfax attorney offers guidance on the types of evidence needed to pursue a wrongful death as a result of someone else’s negligence or recklessness. In Virginia, a representative of the deceased’s estate may file a wrongful death claim. Compensation may be awarded to the surviving family members, including the following:

  • Spouse
  • Parents
  • Siblings
  • Children
  • Grandchildren
  • Other dependents

However, wrongful death claims can become even more complicated when the victims include children. For example, some family members may fight to be part of any settlement. Having legal counsel can ensure that the affected parties get the justice and compensation they deserve, regardless of how complex the case is, and that compensation is distributed pursuant to the applicable statute.

Compensation in Wrongful Death Cases

A successful wrongful death lawsuit may provide compensation for several types of damages. One of the most common damages is related to medical expenses for the deceased’s medical treatments. Wrongful death claims may also include compensation for funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support to his/her family, loss of companionship, and emotional pain. In cases of serious misconduct, the court may also award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer.

A knowledgeable Fairfax attorney can assess the details of a wrongful death case and determine the potential value of a wrongful death claim. This assessment will include determining liability and gathering evidence that bolsters a wrongful death claim. Additionally, The Leiva Law Firm can find insurance policies or other financial sources that can be utilized to pay a wrongful death claim. Also, The Leiva Law Firm can establish, given the circumstances, that multiple parties are responsible for the death, thus increasing the financial resources available to the family of the deceased.

Contact a Fairfax Wrongful Death Attorney Today

Navigating a wrongful death case requires legal experience, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of state laws and insurance policies. You can count on a Fairfax wrongful death lawyer to assist you in handling negotiations with insurance companies, assisting with trial prep, and representing you in court.

Your family deserves dedicated legal representation and the opportunity to hold the appropriate parties accountable for a loved one’s death. If a loved one has passed away due to another party’s negligence, speak with a lawyer from The Leiva Law Firm immediately to initiate a claim.