Few moments in life are more complicated than learning about the loss of a loved one. It can be incredibly challenging if you find out that the death was preventable. When another person’s negligence is responsible for this loss of life, you might be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim.
Hopewell Wrongful Death Lawyers
Hopewell Wrongful Death Lawyers
Assigning Accountability
If you are dealing with the unexpected loss of a family member, it is understandable if you have questions about your legal rights. Wrongful death cases are complex, and pursuing them without experienced legal counsel could prove costly. Discuss your options with a Hopewell wrongful death law firm like Rutter Mills immediately.
How to Even Begin Calculating the Devastating Loss of a Loved One
While hospital, funeral, and burial bills are easily calculated, our lawyers are skilled in estimating other losses you might endure. When pursuing compensation for lost income, a skilled wrongful death attorney in Virginia will bring in forensic experts to determine how much income your loved one would have continued earning for your family.
You may also be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship, guidance, and mental anguish following a wrongful death. There is no price that will make up for your loss, these damages help ensure your family’s future is taken care of.
Wrongful death cases often stem from everyday occurrences. The unexpected can happen anytime: driving to work, walking down the street, or even minding your own business at home. Below are some of the common factors that lead to wrongful death claims.
- Violent crimes
- Accidental shootings
- Car accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Drowning
- Slip and fall accidents
- Fires
- Poisoning
- Medical error
Seasoned Hopewell wrongful death lawyers can assist you in pursuing justice and financial compensation under any of these circumstances.
In Virginia, not just anyone can file a wrongful death lawsuit following an untimely passing. The right to file these lawsuits is limited. According to Virginia law, only a “personal representative” of the estate may file a wrongful death claim on behalf of the state.
The right to file a wrongful death suit is very different from the right to recover the proceeds of a successful claim. While a personal representative must bring the civil action, the proceeds of a case will ultimately go to the decedent’s statutory beneficiaries. This can include a victim’s surviving:
- Spouse
- Children
- Grandchildren
- Parent
- Sibling
- Any relative – blood or adopted – that relied financially on the decedent
If there are no surviving statutory beneficiaries left to recover damages from a wrongful death action, the compensation will go to whatever person is entitled to inherit according to Virginia intestacy laws.
Even though you cannot file a wrongful death lawsuit in your personal capacity, it is important to know if you are entitled to recover the proceeds of a successful claim. A dedicated Hopewell wrongful death attorney could review the case and advise you if you have the right to compensation.
You deserve experienced legal representation that you can rely on on after the untimely loss of a family member. At Rutter Mills, we know how difficult this time can be for you and your family. We are prepared to take a compassionate approach to your wrongful death claim, allowing you to grieve while still protecting your legal rights. To learn more about how Rutter Mills could help, schedule your free initial consultation as soon as possible.
Experience
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Years helping families heal
Locations
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Convenient offices in Hampton Roads
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Team members ready to listen
Contact a Hopewell wrongful death lawyer today.
When everything is on the line, you need the compassion, experience, and results that is Rutter Mills.
Workers Compensation
If you’ve been injured on the job, workers’ compensation insurance may entitle you to critical assistance like medical treatment, lost wages, and more. But insurance companies will put up an aggressive fight to resist paying you the compensation you need and deserve. Rutter Mills can help get you the money you deserve.
