The last thing you want to think about is a loved one experiencing an untimely demise. Yet, many people in the United States lost their lives to accidents and diseases, which qualifies as wrongful death.
If this unfortunate event has befallen your family, a few steps you can take will help with the heartache. That’s why knowing where to start after a traumatic incident like this is important.
Keep reading for some of the vital steps to take after a death due to negligence or wrongdoing. Let’s begin!
Contact an Experienced Wrongful Death Lawyer
First and foremost, you need to contact an experienced attorney who is familiar with your state laws. Also, these wrongful death lawyers can guide legal remedies for the demise of your loved one.
Additionally, they will assist you in determining:
- The extent of available damages
- Oversee the filing of paperwork
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Provide additional resources
Wrongful death cases are highly complex and emotionally taxing, but with their help, you’ll be able to get the support and justice that you need.
Gather Evidence to Support the Wrongful Death Claim
Gathering reliable proof to support the claim is one of the most important steps to take after the death of a loved one due to the negligence of another. Evidence may include:
- Medical reports
- Eye witness statements
- Photographs or videos from the scene
- Expert opinions
- Other documents to prove liability
Keep in mind that gathering the best evidence available will help you build a strong case to pursue justice for your loved one.
Document Medical Bills and Financial Losses
Another major step to take is to collect documents related to the medical treatment received, such as therapeutic care, hospital bills, and prescriptions. It is also important to record financial losses such as:
- Lost wages
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Other lost economic benefits
These records should be collected and kept in a secure location, such as a safe or with an attorney. Furthermore, the family members of the deceased should file any legal claims within the applicable state statute of limitations as well.
After the successful completion of this process, an attorney and wrongful death claims can be pursued to receive compensation for any losses by this wrongful death causes.
Protect Any Assets Related to the Death
When dealing with a wrongful death, you need to protect any assets related to it. This may include significant documents, property, and funds. All documents should be located which may include:
- The deceased’s will
- Pre and post-death arrangements
- Insurance policies
- Bank accounts
- Investment
Moreover, you need to locate legal titles to property and any bank accounts of the deceased. Furthermore, freezing or closing bank accounts may be necessary if there are major concerns about mismanagement or fraud.
Gathering evidence of what happened to the deceased and applicable wrongful death laws can be vital when taking legal action. Lastly, financial support should be applied for if needed, such as life insurance payments or Social Security.
Crucial Steps to Take After a Wrongful Death
Though losing a loved one is always hard, taking essential steps following a wrongful death is critical to ensure justice and compensation.
Start by looking for an experienced attorney that you trust and create an extensive timeline for the events leading up to the death. Don’t delay, hire an attorney today and get started on honoring your loved one.
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