Do I Need a Wrongful Death Attorney?
When a death occurs because of another person’s negligence, it is called a wrongful death. In Florida, you may be entitled to compensation after losing a loved one because of another person’s negligence. You can hold the negligent person liable and recover compensation by filing a wrongful death claim. No amount of money can bring back your loved one or take away your pain, but a wrongful death settlement or award can offer great financial stability and a sense of closure.
If you’ve lost a loved one because of another person’s negligence and are considering filing a wrongful death claim, you may be asking yourself, “Do I need a wrongful death attorney?” So, do you need to hire an attorney for a wrongful death claim? You are under no legal obligation to hire a wrongful death attorney. You are allowed to file your wrongful death claim alone. However, it is advisable to retain an attorney. The following are some of the main reasons to hire a wrongful death attorney;
#1: An Attorney Has Knowledge of the Law and Experience
Without legal background and experience, handling a wrongful death claim and obtaining the compensation you and your family deserve can be incredibly challenging. Wrongful death lawyers have years of experience handling wrongful death cases and understand the laws governing these types of cases. An attorney will know which elements are needed to build a strong case. A skilled wrongful death attorney will also save you time.
#2: An Attorney Can Help Evaluate the Value of Your Claim
A qualified wrongful death attorney will thoroughly evaluate all the damages and losses you and your family have suffered and help you calculate the value of those damages and losses to ensure you recover the maximum compensation possible. The following are some of the damages and losses you can be compensated for in a Florida wrongful death case;
- Medical expenses
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of financial support
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional anguish
- Punitive damages
According to Florida law, you may be eligible to recover punitive damages if it is shown that the defendant’s actions were grossly negligent or intentional.
#3: An Attorney Can Help You Negotiate a Settlement
You may be tempted to believe that insurance companies are on the side of claimants. Unfortunately, this is not true. You can expect the insurance adjuster from the at-fault party’s insurance company to try their best to minimize the amount of money the insurance company must pay you. A wrongful death attorney knows the tricks insurance companies use to reduce the amount of money they must pay. A wrongful death attorney can help you get around these tricks. An attorney will know how to negotiate a fair settlement.
#4: An Attorney Will Represent You in Court
If the insurance company refuses to offer you fair compensation, your case might need to go to trial. If your wrongful death case goes to trial, you will need an attorney to help you litigate your case.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve lost a loved one because of another person’s negligence and need help filing a wrongful death claim, contact our Orlando personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm. Our team is dedicated to getting you and your family the justice and compensation you deserve.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Ocala, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami, Naples, and Melbourne areas.