Riverdale Wrongful Death Lawyer
Losing a loved one unexpectedly is one of the most difficult situations that any of us can find ourselves in. The devastation is only greater when the cause of death is someone else’s intentional acts or negligent behavior. In these instances, it is only normal to feel angry and hurt.
At The Dixon Firm, P.C., our Riverdale wrongful death lawyer wants you to know that you are not alone in your grief. When the negligent actions of others cause you and your loved one’s harm, we want you to know that we can help. While pursuing legal action may not seem like a priority, it is a beneficial way to ensure that your family gets the justice you deserve.
Georgia Wrongful Death Laws
Georgia law allows certain family members the ability to file a wrongful death claim against parties deemed negligent in a fatal accident or injury. The Georgia Wrongful Death Act (O.C.G.A. §51-4-1) allows family members to file a lawsuit in the following situations:
- Intentional homicide
- Criminal or unlawful actions
- Drunk driving
- Negligent conduct
- Illegal service of alcohol
- Medical malpractice
- Dangerous or defective products
- Dangerous or defective medical devices
- Unsafe pharmaceuticals
- Nursing home abuse
- Contaminated or recalled food
If you have lost a loved one due to any of these situations, contact The Dixon Firm, P.C. to find out if you qualify to file a wrongful death claim.
You should take note that Georgia law requires wrongful death claims be filed within two years of the date the death occurred. After that statute of limitations has expired, you may be unable to pursue legal action.
Who can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
Under Georgia law, several parties may be allowed to file a wrongful death claim, though there is a process for determining this. Who can file a wrongful death claim includes:
- The surviving spouse
- If there is no spouse, then children
- If there is no spouse or children, then the deceased’s parents
- If none of these are applicable, then the administrator of the deceased’s estate can pursue a claim
Who can file a wrongful death claim may also be impacted by a will if the deceased left one. If you are considering filing a wrongful death lawsuit, provide your lawyer with any will or other applicable documents prior to filing.
What Does a Wrongful Death Claim Do?
The purpose of a wrongful death claim is to provide compensation to the deceased’s family. Often times, an unexpected death results in financial hardship, lost income, and the emotional trauma of the situation. Through a wrongful death claim, the deceased’s family can recover damages for:
- Lost wages or future earnings
- Lost inheritance for dependents
- Lost benefits
- Medical expenses
- Funeral or burial expenses
- Pain and suffering felt by the deceased prior to his or her death
- Pain and suffering felt by the surviving family
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium, companionship, or love
- Punitive damages
In addition to damages, a wrongful death claim can also serve as a means of holding the responsible party accountable. Punitive damages, when applicable, serve as a means of punishing the responsible party by requiring them to pay damages. This is a form of deterrence, and is separate from any criminal case that may arise.
How The Dixon Firm, P.C. Can Help
At The Dixon Firm, P.C., we understand how difficult this time is for you and your family. We have helped numerous clients in Riverdale, and all throughout Metro Atlanta, with wrongful death claims. Our experience culminates into compassionate and steadfast legal representation.
If you are in need of a Riverdale wrongful death lawyer, The Dixon Firm, P.C. can help. We offer every client the following services:
- No fee consultation. You can discuss your case with absolutely no obligation.
- Contingency fee basis. If we do not obtain compensation in your case, you owe us nothing.
- Knowledge. We have worked in Georgia for many years, and we are knowledgeable about state laws, courts, judges, and resources.
- Experience. We have the experience and resources you need to build a strong case and get a favorable outcome.
- Thoroughness. We investigate every potential claim thoroughly to make sure we have all the facts before and during case building.
- Fearlessness. We are not afraid to tackle complicated cases, such as those involving corporations, insurance companies, or other legal teams.
To find out how we can put these services to work in your wrongful death case, contact The Dixon Firm, P.C. Schedule a free consultation of your potential wrongful death claim by calling us at 404-733-1166. You can also complete our online form and we will get back in touch with you as soon as possible.