An Overview of Your Rights in a Wrongful Death Case
One of the most tragic and challenging moments in life is a situation in which a member of your family loses his or her life because of the negligence of some other party. If you find yourself in such a situation, you need to understand your essential legal rights when it comes to pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit. There are a number of factors that you need to bear in mind when it comes to a wrongful death lawsuit in the state of Washington.
Who Can Pursue a Washington Wrongful Death Claim?
The statutes of Washington establish who may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit in the state. The parties that can pursue a wrongful death case in Washington include:
- Personal representative of deceased
- Spouse
- Registered domestic partner
- Children
- Stepchildren
- Parents
- Siblings
Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations
The wrongful death statute of limitations establishes a time frame during which a wrongful death case must be filed in a court.
In Washington state, a wrongful death case must be filed in court within three years of the accident or incident that caused the family member’s death. Failure to file the case by that point in time likely precludes a person from ever pursuing this type of case.
Compensation in a Wrongful Death Case
A person interested in pursuing a wrongful death claim best protects his or her legal interests by retaining an experienced wrongful death lawyer, like those at Athena Boyer Law Firm.
Compensation depends on the underlying facts and circumstances of a wrongful death claim. Nonetheless, examples of losses, damages, and injuries from which compensation is awarded in a wrongful death case include:
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Last medical expenses
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost companionship
- Lost consortium
- Income and lost support
You may also qualify for punitive or exemplary damages in a lawsuit. These damages might be awarded if a court determines that the conduct of the party causing the accident is deemed particularly egregious or reckless.
Retain a Tenacious Wrongful Death Lawyer
A wrongful death attorney from the legal team at Boyer Law Firm stands ready to discuss your case. You can schedule an initial consultation here. (hyperlink)
During an initial consultation, we will provide an evaluation of your case. In addition, legal counsel from our firm will answer any questions you may have about your case. Keep in mind, there is no legal fee for an initial consultation with us.