Sterling Heights Wrongful Death Lawyer

It may seem impossible to deal with the aftermath of losing a family member. If someone is responsible for your loved one’s death, you have the right to hold this party accountable. Work with a compassionate Sterling Heights personal injury lawyer who can help you file a wrongful death claim. 

The legal team at White Law PLLC provides legal help to those facing the financial ramifications of the loss of a family member. A Sterling Heights wrongful death lawyer can review your case and discuss your legal options with you. For more information, contact us today.

Definition of a Wrongful Death

A wrongful death is defined under Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) §600.2922. It occurs due to an act that is considered wrongful or as the result of the neglect or fault of someone else. Reasons why this type of death may happen include:

• Auto accident
• Medical malpractice
• Motorcycle accident
• Slip and fall accident

A personal representative of a deceased person (decedent) may be allowed to submit a death claim. This representative may be a blood relative of the decedent or an executor of the deceased person’s estate. A wrongful death attorney in Sterling Heights may help you determine if you are eligible to file a claim based on someone’s death.

Who Is at Fault for a Wrongful Death

In terms of how to prove wrongful death in Michigan, you must first determine who is at fault. A Sterling Heights wrongful death lawyer can learn about your case and help you identify the liable party. Those who may be responsible for another person’s death include:

• Business operators
• Homeowners
• Medical professionals
• Property owners

To prove fault, you must show a party had a legal obligation to avoid careless and reckless acts toward an individual and violate this requirement. Also, you must verify a person died due to the fact that the party violated their duty of care. Along with these things, you must illustrate that you are dealing with quantifiable or subjective damages due to this party’s actions. 

Cost of a Wrongful Death

You may believe you will be financially covered after a loved one dies. However, financial problems may come up quickly. When you have an experienced legal team at your side, you can deal with these issues before they escalate.

A lawyer understands the financial ramifications of the loss of a loved one. They may help you calculate the losses you are currently dealing with due to this loss. From here, they may work with you to submit a claim for damages.

Filing a death claim may seem like it is more trouble than it is actually worth, particularly if you are still grieving a loved one’s loss. An attorney will not pressure you to submit a claim, but they will provide you with plenty of legal guidance and support if you decide to move forward with one. At this point, your lawyer will help you decide fair compensation or damages.

Wrongful Death Case Damages

Economic and non-economic damages are available in Michigan personal injury cases. You may receive economic compensation for quantifiable losses and non-economic damages for subjective ones. Examples of damages awarded in death cases include:

• Burial and funeral costs
• Lost wages
• Medical expenses 
• Pain and suffering

The legal team at White Law PLLC understands the emotional and financial impact that comes with losing a loved one. If you are considering hiring a Sterling Heights wrongful death attorney, we are here to help you out however we can. To learn more, reach out to us. 

When to File a Wrongful Death Claim

You may have up to three years to file a death claim, according to the statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Michigan. The window to submit a claim opens on the date of someone’s death. It may not be extended.

It may be best to consult with a wrongful death lawyer in Sterling Heights as soon as you can. Your attorney is compassionate and empathetic, as they understand the trauma that may follow the death of a loved one. They focus on getting you compensation, so you can continue to prioritize yourself and those who are important to you. 

After your death claim is filed, your attorney explores ways to build your case. They may help you craft an argument that explains why you deserve to be awarded damages. In addition, they may work with you to gather and evaluate evidence. 

Wrongful Death Case Evidence

By choosing an attorney who has helped past clients achieve great case results, you may be well-positioned to secure the damages you want. Your lawyer may consider a wide range of evidence to support your argument. Pieces of evidence you may be able to use include:

• Accident scene photos and videos
• Eyewitness testimony
• Medical records 
• Police reports

Just because you have a strong body of evidence does not guarantee you will be awarded compensation. Your attorney can help you avoid legal pitfalls during your litigation. They can address your legal concerns and questions, ensuring you will be able to make informed decisions as the legal process moves forward.

Wrongful Death Lawsuit Settlement

You may be unsure about how long does a personal injury lawsuit take in Michigan. A death case may require months or years to resolve, depending on its complexity. You may have the opportunity to settle before your case goes to trial.

If you receive a settlement offer, you are not legally obligated to accept it. Your lawyer will notify you about the proposal. It may be beneficial to review the offer with your attorney. 

Your attorney will let you know if they believe a settlement proposal is fair or not. If your lawyer feels accepting a settlement offer does not align with your best interests, they will tell you. Regardless, you have the flexibility to approve, decline, or counter any offer you get.

Hire an Attorney to Help You with Your Legal Claim

At White Law PLLC, we prioritize our clientele. We fight for you and represent your best interests. To schedule a free case consultation, contact us today.