Dalton Wrongful Death Lawyer
Dealing with the death of a friend or loved one can be incredibly difficult, especially if that death resulted from someone else’s actions. If another person’s negligent or intentional act caused your family member’s death, you may be able to collect compensation related to your loss.
Collecting damages from anyone who contributed to your loved one’s death may be easier with qualified legal help by your side. A seasoned Dalton wrongful death lawyer knows how stressful your life may be at this difficult time. When you are ready, one of our compassionate attorneys could review your case and help you decide if filing a legal claim is appropriate.
Wrongful Death Laws
In Georgia, a wrongful death is when there is a death caused by the negligent, reckless, intentional, or criminal actions of another person. In such cases, survivors of the deceased may sue for damages resulting from the deceased’s injury or death.
Survivors have a two-year deadline to assert any wrongful death claim, under O.C.G.A § 9-3-33. Given the relatively short statute of limitations, those who may be considering a wrongful death action could benefit from talking with a Dalton wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can assist someone filing a claim within the time limits.
Suing for Wrongful Death
Different people may be entitled to sue for wrongful death depending on his or her relationship with the deceased. The first individual who has priority to file suit is the spouse of the deceased. If there is no surviving spouse, the following people may be eligible to claim wrongful death:
- The deceased’s children or next of kin
- The deceased’s personal representative
- The deceased’s surviving parent(s), if the deceased was dependent on his or her parent(s)
Damages Available
Plaintiffs in Dalton wrongful death cases may be entitled to claim a variety of damages, including:
- Burial and funeral costs
- Loss of any potential wages of the deceased
- Loss of inheritance
- Any pain and suffering of the deceased
- Mental and physical anguish of the plaintiff
- Loss of time with the deceased
Generally, Georgia law classifies damages due to pain and suffering, or due to mental and physical anguish, as non-economic damages. If the defendant’s actions were extremely negligent, the plaintiff could possibly be awarded punitive damages. Georgia laws are unique in wrongful death cases because a plaintiff has the opportunity to establish the value of the life of the deceased too. For help on filing a claim for damages, contact a wrongful death lawyer in Dalton.
Dalton Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help
Dealing with the sudden death of a loved one may be especially stressful if that death was due to someone else’s acts or omissions.
A Dalton wrongful death lawyer with experience handling such knows how difficult this time of your life may be. Get in touch whenever you are ready to talk, and one of our attorneys will sit down with you to discuss the facts surrounding your loved one’s death and offer advice on whether a legal claim may be beneficial for you.
