A wrongful death is always shocking for the family and loved ones of the deceased. Many questions will need to be answered about how and why this person passed before fulfilling his or her life. A wrongful death attorney in Tuscaloosa County, AL, can determine if the death qualifies as a wrongful death lawsuit. There are key points that must be met in order to prove the case is valid. Only certain people can file a lawsuit on behalf of a deceased person. A wrongful death must have been caused by the wrongful act, omission or negligence of another individual to be a valid lawsuit. Proving these claims takes the experience of an attorney.
A wrongful death is similar to a personal injury claim. The difference between the two is that on a personal injury claim, the person could take action on their own behalf. In a wrongful death lawsuit, a family member needs to file suit on their behalf. The estate of a deceased person is permitted to step in and file a lawsuit on behalf of the deceased. A wrongful death attorney in Tuscaloosa County, AL, can assist from the beginning to the end on a wrongful death case. Attempting to take on this type of legal work without the proper experience could leave the estate without a fair or proper settlement.
A wrongful death lawsuit does not have to have a criminal conviction to be valid. When a person that provided financial support for many members of their family has passed away, lost wages and future wages can be addressed in the lawsuit. The family should not suffer any further stress due to the negligent act of another individual. Any money received from a wrongful death lawsuit will be disbursed into the estate and distributed accordingly.
Some Alabama laws focus on punitive damages in wrongful death lawsuits. This means they focus completely on the acts of the negligent party. A wrongful death lawsuit can be very difficult to prove and requires the knowledge and experience of a seasoned attorney. For more information on recovering damages due to the death of a loved one, please feel free to click here.
