If you’ve lost a loved one in an accident or preventable incident, you may be wondering if you have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. We strongly encourage you to contact our Lakewood Ranch wrongful death lawyers. 

One of our qualified attorneys can help you understand your rights and what steps to take next. If you think you might have a case, call (727) 821-3195 to book a free consultation with one of our Lakewood Ranch wrongful death lawyers. You may be entitled to compensation for your loss, and a lawyer can help make sure you get it.

Our legal team is highly experienced with wrongful death claims and will work tirelessly to get you the justice and compensation you need. Contact Herman & Wells today for a free consultation if you are ready to discuss the details of your case with a local attorney.

Florida’s Wrongful Death Statute

In Lakewood Ranch, Florida, wrongful death is a serious legal matter that can devastate families. The Florida Wrongful Death Act gives family members of deceased individuals the right to pursue damages from those responsible for their loved one’s death. The statute sets forth specific requirements that must be met before a wrongful death claim can be filed, including proving that another party was negligent or careless. 

In Lakewood Ranch, wrongful death lawyers can help families understand the specifics of the law and guide them through the process of filing a claim. The lawyers will work to ensure that victims’ rights are protected under Florida law and assist with gathering evidence, securing expert testimony, and filing the necessary paperwork.

What Damages Can Our Lakewood Ranch Wrongful Death Lawyers Recover?

At our Lakewood Ranch, Florida wrongful death law firm, we understand that when someone you love has been taken from you suddenly and tragically, the last thing on your mind is financial compensation. 

However, filing a wrongful death suit can help to provide closure and security for the future. Our Lakewood Ranch wrongful death lawyers are here to help you seek the compensation you deserve. We can help you to recover damages such as:

• Funeral and burial expenses 
• Loss of consortium (companionship) 
• Lost wages or income 
• Medical bills related to the person’s death 
• Pain and suffering of the deceased 
• Punitive damages, if applicable

Examples Of Wrongful Death Claims In Lakewood Ranch

Wrongful death claims can happen in Lakewood Ranch, Florida when someone dies due to the carelessness, recklessness, or intentional acts of another person or entity. In these cases, surviving family members may be entitled to seek financial compensation for their losses through a wrongful death claim. Common examples of wrongful death claims in Lakewood Ranch, Florida include those caused by: 

• Auto accidents
• Medical malpractice and negligence 
• Construction accidents 
• Defective products 
• Premises liability (slip and fall)
• Intentional acts of violence (assault and battery) 
• Nursing home abuse/neglect 

If you have lost a loved one due to the carelessness or negligence of another person or entity, then it is important to speak with an experienced Lakewood Ranch wrongful death lawyer. An attorney can help you determine if you are eligible for financial compensation.

Does Insurance Cover Any Part Of A Wrongful Death Claim In Florida?

Insurance companies generally do not cover any part of a wrongful death claim in Florida. This includes life insurance policies, health insurance policies, auto insurance policies, and homeowners’ liability policies. Because wrongful death claims are based on negligence or other forms of wrongdoing and not the act of an accident, no type of insurance generally covers it.

What to Expect If You Need to File a Lawsuit

When filing a lawsuit, the timeline will vary based on the type of case being pursued and the jurisdiction in which it is filed. However, there are some common steps that can be taken to prepare for a potential wrongful death lawsuit in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. 

First, an individual should consult with an experienced wrongful death lawyer, who can provide sound legal advice and help with the filing process. The lawyer will review all of the facts, medical records, and other evidence relevant to the case before determining whether a lawsuit is warranted.

Next, the wrongful death lawyer will draft and file a complaint with the appropriate court in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. This document lays out why a lawsuit should be filed and outlines the specific damages being sought. The complaint will then be served to the defendant, who has a certain amount of time to respond.

From there, both sides may engage in discovery, which involves requesting documents and conducting depositions with witnesses. Depending on the outcome of these proceedings, it is possible that the parties could enter settlement negotiations. 

If an agreement is not reached, the case may proceed to trial. Wrongful death litigation can be complex, however, an experienced Lakewood Ranch wrongful death lawyer will have the trial experience needed if your claim goes to court.

Is Wrongful Death a Crime in Florida?

When a loved one dies through the fault or negligence of another person, Lakewood Ranch residents may be eligible to pursue legal action. In Florida, wrongful death is not a crime but a civil action that may entitle the family of the deceased to financial compensation. Wrongful death claims are complex cases and require an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Lakewood Ranch to navigate the complicated legal process.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

If you have lost a loved one due to the negligence of another, Lakewood Ranch Florida’s wrongful death lawyer can help you pursue justice. A wrongful death lawsuit can be filed by the surviving family of an individual who has died due to the wrongful act or neglect of another. These suits seek to hold the responsible person or persons legally accountable. The following individuals are usually eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit: 

• The deceased person’s spouse, children, or parents
• Any heirs of the deceased as designated in their will
• Anyone who can prove they were financially dependent on the deceased
• A personal representative appointed by the court to represent the deceased’s estate

How to Find a Good Attorney in Lakewood Ranch for a Wrongful Death Claim

If you are in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, and need a wrongful death lawyer, it is important that you choose someone with experience who can effectively represent your interests. The following steps will help guide you in finding an attorney to handle your case: 

1. Research Lakewood Ranch attorneys: Use the internet to do research on Lakewood Ranch attorneys who specialize in wrongful death matters. Look for attorneys with a good reputation and experience handling wrongful death claims.
2. Ask for references: Ask family, friends, or colleagues if they know of an attorney who specializes in wrongful death law. Speak with the attorney’s previous clients to get an idea of how well the attorney handled their case and whether or not they would recommend the attorney to you.
3. Ask questions: Make sure to ask prospective attorneys questions such as how many wrongful death cases they have handled, what their success rate is, and how much experience they have in Lakewood Ranch.

By following these steps, you can find an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Lakewood Ranch or wherever you may be in Florida.

What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Wrongful Death Claims In Lakewood Ranch?

Wrongful death claims in Lakewood Ranch, Florida are subject to the state’s statute of limitations laws. Generally speaking, a wrongful death claim must be filed within two years of the date of death. However, there may be exceptions to this rule depending on the facts of your particular case. 

It is important to contact an experienced Lakewood Ranch wrongful death lawyer to discuss your case and determine the applicable time limit for filing a claim. An experienced Lakewood Ranch wrongful death lawyer can help you understand how much time you have to file a claim, as well as advise you on the best course of action for your individual situation.

How Expensive is Wrongful Death Lawyers in Lakewood Ranch?

Most wrongful death lawyers in Lakewood Ranch, Florida operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning that their fees are based on a percentage of the proceeds from any successful settlement or verdict. This allows individuals with limited financial resources to receive quality legal representation without having to pay any upfront costs. The lawyer’s fee is typically between 33-40% of the total amount recovered from a settlement.

Book a Free Consultation with One of Our Lakewood Ranch Wrongful Death Lawyers

If your family has suffered the wrongful death of a loved one in Lakewood Ranch, Florida due to another person’s negligence or recklessness, you may be entitled to compensation. We know that no amount of money can truly compensate for the loss of a loved one. That’s why we are committed to providing you with compassionate and effective legal representation as you seek justice for your family. 

Our Lakewood Ranch wrongful death lawyers will fight for maximum compensation for the loss of your loved one and help you move forward with life by protecting your legal rights. Book a free no-obligation consultation today with Herman & Wells  to discuss your case and learn how we can help.