A Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help Obtain Full Compensation following the Loss of a Loved One

What is Wrongful Death?

When a person’s death is the result of negligence, misconduct, or murder by an individual or other entity such as a corporation, the victim’s death may be considered wrongful, and the immediate family may be entitled to damages. Damages are sought to compensate both monetary and emotional loss, as well as medical and funeral expenses for the deceased. Wrongful death suits may involve fatal accidents, malpractice, product liability, and more.

Parties in a Wrongful Death Suit

A representative of the deceased’s estate may file a suit on behalf of an immediate family member such as a spouse, child, or parent, a life partner, or other financial dependents, and more distant relatives such as a sibling or grandparent. A wrongful death suit may be filed against an individual, corporation, manufacturer, government agency, medical practice, and more. Some government agencies and their employees have immunity from wrongful death lawsuits. Those with immunity may also include manufacturers of medical devices or generic drugs, and defendants in railroad collisions.

Types of Damages

There are three different types of damages that may be sought in a wrongful death suit. Economic damages cover financial costs and loss of the deceased’s financial contribution to survivors. These can include medical and funeral expenses, loss of expected income, loss of medical benefits or a pension plan, and the value of services provided by the deceased, usually in the case of a homemaker or caretaker not otherwise employed. Non-economic damages can be more difficult to prove and may include the survivors’ pain and suffering, loss of care, protection, and guidance provided by the deceased, and loss of love and companionship. Punitive damages are punishment for especially bad conduct.

When a person's death is the result of negligence, misconduct, or murder by an individual or other entity such as a corporation, the victim's death may be considered wrongful and the immediate family may be entitled to damages.

Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer

Proving wrongful deaths can be complex, especially in cases of malpractice, and it is in your best interest to consult with a lawyer. Our attorneys at Froerer & Miles are well versed in the laws surrounding wrongful deaths in Utah and we know and understand Utah’s specific statutes of limitations. It is important to contact us as soon as possible after a wrongful death so we can help you navigate the process and ensure that you receive the fullest amount that you deserve in damages, including any personal injury damages incurred prior to the death of your loved one.

Contact Us

Laws surrounding wrongful death suits and the statutes of limitations can be complicated, and we can help you through the difficult time following the wrongful death of a loved one. Contact us to meet with one of our experienced attorneys.