The loss of a loved one is devastating, and it’s even worse when that death was preventable. Fortunately, if someone else’s reckless actions or inaction caused your family member’s death, you may be entitled to compensation for your loss. This type of legal action is called wrongful death.

A wrongful death lawyer can help you file a lawsuit and receive fair compensation. However, a successful claim requires that you prove certain elements. For example, you must demonstrate that your loved one’s death was caused by another person’s negligent actions and that this death led to monetary losses for you. The amount of money you’re able to recover is also affected by state laws, which set caps on damages.

In many cases, a wrongful death suit involves multiple parties. The surviving family members who are able to file the lawsuit are called “statutory beneficiaries.” These individuals must be related to the deceased in some way. In most states, this includes spouses, children, parents, and siblings. In some cases, life partners or financial dependents who were close to the decedent can also bring a wrongful death claim. In addition to proving a financial loss, you must also prove that you suffered noneconomic damages, such as the loss of companionship, love, care, and guidance.

Depending on the circumstances, your case may involve expert testimony. For example, a medical professional can provide an opinion regarding the condition of your loved one before their death and the impact this could have had on his or her family. Other experts can provide economic and noneconomic loss calculations. For instance, a life expectancy expert can estimate the loss of future income. An economist can assess the value of your lost companionship and loss of care, support, and guidance.

A wrongful death attorney can explain these issues and help you prove your case. If you and your attorney cannot reach a settlement agreement, the case can go to trial, where a judge or jury will decide whether or not you should receive compensation.

While a wrongful death lawsuit can be complicated, an experienced New York wrongful death lawyer can handle the details and maximize your chances of a favorable outcome. In addition, a lawyer can make sure your lawsuit is filed within the statute of limitations.

If you’ve lost a family member due to the negligent or reckless actions of another party, the New York wrongful death attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP, can support your grieving family. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We have the offices, experience, and results to aid families across the United States. We are committed to helping clients obtain the justice they deserve. Wrongful death claims are civil cases that must be filed in Supreme Court. In contrast, criminal cases are handled in the Criminal Court of the City of New York. In either case, our lawyers will be dedicated to pursuing the maximum possible compensation for you and your family.