Washington families can experience great detriment after a fatality. While the loss of a family member is devastating, any circumstances that were avoidable could increase their sorrow knowing that these narrowed their chance of survival in an instant. When these circumstances are negligent or the equivalent of a crime, a wrongful death lawyer in Spokane, WA is there to help.
Identifying the Conditions of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death doesn’t relate to criminal infractions only. Conditions that lead to a wrongful death could involve any of the most common circumstances identified in personal injury claims, which include auto accidents, premises or product’s liabilities and medical malpractice. The point of the wrongful death claim is to prove that the defendant’s actions or inactions were negligent.
Who Can File Wrongful Death Claims?
Statutory beneficiaries, such as spouses, children, parents and siblings, may file a claim for wrongful death. Any individual who depended on the victim for financial support may also file a claim; this could include stepchildren, cousins or adopted children. Parents may file a claim for minor children who died due to avoidable occurrences.
What to Expect During These Lawsuits
Initially, the beneficiary representing the victim meets with an attorney where they can present evidence of the accident that lead to the fatality. This includes medical evidence, death certificate, and testimony from witnesses.
The attorney conducts an investigation to secure additional evidence to support the claim, which they must submit to the court along with the evidence when filing a motion. If the court deems the case viable, they will schedule a hearing.
The defendant in the lawsuit could provide a settlement offer. The attorney evaluates the offer and discusses it with the beneficiary, and if the settlement is acceptable, they may complete the legal action without the hearing. Click here for more details.
Washington families have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the individual that caused a fatality in their family. The circumstances of the fatality determine if the family has a viable case or if the event was just an unfortunate accident. Families who are ready to file should contact a wrongful death lawyer in Spokane, WA at Cooney Law Offices today.
