Wrongful Death Lawyer Broward County, FL

There are not many things in life that are as overwhelming as someone unexpectedly passing away. Unfortunately, grieving over someone we have lost is something that we are all going to experience at some point. But when someone is taken before their time and another person is responsible for that, it is wise to speak with the lawyer about what can be done. Surviving family members may be able to obtain a sense of justice for their loved one taken before their natural time. Wrongful death cases are intended to compensate the surviving family for their loss. At The Andres Lopez Law Firm, we understand that no amount of money can bring back your cherished person. At the very least, you can get a sense of justice for what happened and the financial support you need to get through this difficult time. The last thing you should have to worry about is money when you are dealing with such profound loss. Please consider reaching out to our Broward County, FL wrongful death lawyer today so that we can let you know if you have grounds for filing a wrongful death case and how to take the next steps if you choose to do so. We are ready to hear from you.

Compensation For Dependents

If the surviving family members were dependent on the person who passed away, then they may experience financial hardship because they no longer have that support. When the negligence, carelessness, or intentional misconduct of another causes the death of someone, surviving relatives may endure emotional and financial turmoil. Florida law offers remedies that can help ease the burden at this time. Our compassionate wrongful death attorney wants to help you get your life back together as soon as possible after facing such an awful tragedy. When a person, company, or other party takes a life, there are financial consequences for this. We understand that no amount of money can undo what has been done. Time cannot be taken back, but what we can do is to see to it that any monetary losses that resulted from the death are compensated for. Whether that be funeral expenses, medical bills, and more. It is our goal to ensure that you are financially secure so that you can grieve and take care of yourself during a really difficult time. Many surviving loved ones get a sense of justice through a wrongful death lawsuit. When the offender is held accountable by law, it can ease the grieving process. If you believe that your loved one’s death was due to the fault of another, please contact us as soon as possible.

The Andres Lopez Law Firm

Losing someone you care about deeply is already difficult enough. To realize that someone may have caused a life to be lost can add anguish to an already challenging situation. At The Andres Lopez Law Firm, we can assess what has happened and let you know if there are enough grounds to pursue a case against the offending party. Please let us guide you amidst this tragic loss. Our FL wrongful death attorney can help you obtain justice for a loved one taken wrongfully, and too soon. We are prepared to get started as soon as you are ready.

Who Is Eligible To File A Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

When a loved one dies due to someone else’s negligence or intentional actions, the family may be able to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. This legal claim allows survivors to seek compensation for the emotional and financial hardships they’ve suffered. However, not just anyone can file a wrongful death claim. There are specific guidelines that determine who is eligible to bring a lawsuit to court as our Broward County, FL wrongful death lawyer can share.

Immediate Family Members

In most cases, the individuals with the strongest legal standing to file a wrongful death lawsuit are the immediate family members. This typically includes the spouse, children, and parents of the deceased. These family members are recognized as the primary beneficiaries of any compensation that may be awarded through a wrongful death claim.

For example, if a spouse loses their partner in a fatal accident, they are often the first to be able to file. The same is true for minor or adult children who have lost a parent. If the deceased was unmarried or did not have children, surviving parents would generally be the next in line to file the claim.

Personal Representatives Of The Estate

In some cases, the court may appoint a personal representative to file the wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the deceased’s estate. This representative may be someone named in the will or designated by the court if no will exists. The representative’s role is to seek compensation for the benefit of the estate and distribute any awarded damages to the appropriate beneficiaries.

Other Potential Beneficiaries

In certain situations, extended family members or dependents may also have a legal right to file a wrongful death claim as our lawyers can share that have over ten years of trial experience. This could include siblings, grandparents, or others who were financially dependent on the deceased. However, their ability to file a claim usually depends on whether the immediate family members have taken action. In many cases, extended family members can only file if there are no surviving spouses, children, or parents. However, if you are unsure whether or not you have a claim, you should contact a lawyer for help.

What Damages Can Be Recovered In A Wrongful Death Claim?

Wrongful death claims allow the surviving family members to recover damages for various losses. These may include funeral and burial expenses, medical bills related to the deceased’s final injury or illness, loss of income, and loss of companionship. Compensation may also be awarded for the emotional pain and suffering caused by the untimely death of a loved one.

The type and amount of damages that can be recovered will depend on the circumstances of the case and the relationship between the deceased and the person filing the lawsuit. A Broward County wrongful death lawyer can provide guidance on what damages may be recoverable and how to calculate these losses.

The Statute Of Limitations For Filing

In Florida, the law sets a time limit for filing a wrongful death lawsuit. This time limit, known as the statute of limitations, is typically two years from the date of death. If the claim is not filed within this time frame, the court may refuse to hear the case, and the opportunity to seek compensation will be lost. Because of this, it’s important to take timely action to protect the family’s rights. Consulting with a Broward County wrongful death lawyer early on can help avoid any issues with filing deadlines.

Get Help From Our Firm

If you’ve lost a loved one and believe their death was caused by someone else’s negligence, we can help. At The Andres Lopez Law Firm, our compassionate team is dedicated to helping families in Broward County navigate the legal process and seek the justice they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Broward County wrongful death lawyer. We are ready to discuss your case and explore your legal options — our team is available for both English and Spanish speaking clients.

7 Critical Pieces Of Evidence Needed For A Successful Wrongful Death Claim

In a wrongful death case, gathering the right evidence is key to building a strong claim and supporting the family’s case for compensation as a Broward County, FL wrongful death lawyer knows well. A wrongful death claim seeks to prove that another party’s negligence or intentional act led to the loss of a loved one. This involves meeting specific legal standards of proof, which often requires various forms of evidence. Here are several types of evidence commonly used to support wrongful death claims.

1. Official Reports

Official reports, such as police reports, accident reports, and medical examiner findings, provide objective records of the events leading to the death. These reports often include key details about the incident, such as where it happened, who was involved, and any observations made by law enforcement officers or first responders. In cases of medical negligence, for example, medical records and evaluations play a significant role in showing how care was administered and identifying any deviations from standard medical practices.

2. Witness Statements

Witness statements add value to a wrongful death case by providing firsthand accounts of the incident. Witnesses might include bystanders, coworkers, or other individuals who were present and observed the actions that led to the death. Statements from these witnesses can reveal important details about how the defendant acted and the circumstances surrounding the event. We prioritize gathering reliable witness statements to add credibility and depth to the claims we build which has helped us win settlements as large as $875,000 in a medical malpractice related case.

3. Surveillance And Video Footage

Video footage from security cameras, dashcams, or even cellphone recordings can provide powerful visual evidence. This type of evidence can show the incident in real time, capturing moments that are often essential for a successful claim. In many cases, video footage can reveal details that might not be included in witness accounts, such as the specific actions or inactions of the defendant. We recommend that families act quickly to help preserve this type of evidence since video footage is often stored for only a short time.

4. Medical Records And Bills

Medical records and bills provide insight into the treatments and care that the deceased received before passing. These records can show the nature and severity of injuries, treatments administered, and potential factors contributing to the individual’s death. In wrongful death cases involving illness or medical negligence, the records can also serve as evidence of any malpractice or negligence that occurred during treatment. Medical bills are also important in establishing the financial damages for which the family may seek compensation. You may find it difficult to retrieve these documents after the loss of a loved one as the organization tries to cover their involvement in the death, but our lawyers have over a decade of trial experience and are ready to fight for you.

5. Witness Testimony

Witness testimony is often used in wrongful death claims to clarify technical or specialized details, helping to explain to a jury how the death occurred or how the defendant’s actions led to the incident. This could include input from accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, or forensic analysts. For example, an accident reconstruction analyst can analyze evidence from a car accident to determine the cause of the crash and identify responsible parties. While witness testimony may not be necessary in every case, it can provide critical insights that strengthen the claim.

6. Financial Records

Financial records play an important role in calculating damages for a wrongful death claim, especially when loss of income or financial support is a factor. Documents such as tax returns, pay stubs, and employment records help demonstrate the deceased’s financial contributions and the economic impact of their loss on surviving family members. This evidence supports claims for compensation for lost future earnings, as well as any expenses the family has incurred as a result of the death.

7. Documentation Of Emotional Impact

While economic damages are easier to calculate, non-economic damages such as pain and suffering are often based on the emotional toll of the loss. Family testimonies, letters, or therapy records can be included to show the emotional and psychological impact of losing a loved one. These records may support the family’s claim for non-economic damages, providing the court with a fuller understanding of the loss’s effect on their lives. A Broward County wrongful death lawyer can walk you through what will best support your case in this instance.

Preserving Evidence

Collecting and preserving critical evidence is essential in building a successful wrongful death claim. It’s important to gather evidence promptly, as some types of evidence may become unavailable over time. At The Andres Lopez Law Firm, we work closely with families to identify, collect, and organize the key evidence that will support their case. If you’re facing the challenges of a wrongful death case, reach out to a Broward County wrongful death lawyer for guidance on how to move forward with your claim. Contact us today to discuss how we can help secure the compensation your family needs and deserves.

5 Mistakes To Avoid In A Wrongful Death Case

Losing a loved one is one of the most painful experiences anyone can go through, and when that loss is due to someone else’s negligence, the situation becomes even more heartbreaking. If you’re dealing with a wrongful death case, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect your family’s future. At The Andres Lopez Law Firm, we have over a decade of trial experience and a proven track record of success. To help you avoid costly mistakes, here are five things you should be careful about when handling a wrongful death case as our Broward County, FL wrongful death lawyer can share.

1. Waiting Too Long To File Your Claim

One of the biggest mistakes people make in wrongful death cases is waiting too long to take legal action. In Florida, there are strict time limits for filing a wrongful death claim, known as the statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to pursue compensation. A lawyer can help you understand the time constraints and ensure your case is filed within the appropriate time frame. Don’t delay — time is crucial. Even if quite a bit of time has passed since you lost your loved one, you should still reach out to see how a lawyer can assist you.

2. Not Gathering Sufficient Evidence

Without evidence to support your claim, it will be challenging to prove negligence in a wrongful death case. Many families fail to collect critical evidence, such as accident reports, medical records, and witness statements. This can weaken the case and hurt the chances of getting fair compensation. We recommend that you work with a lawyer who can help gather all necessary documentation, including expert testimony if needed.

3. Agreeing To A Quick Settlement

Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement, but these offers often fall short of covering all the damages your family has incurred. The emotional and financial toll of a wrongful death case is substantial, and a hasty settlement may not account for future expenses, such as funeral costs, medical bills, or loss of income. A lawyer can evaluate the offer and advise you on whether it’s in your best interest or if you should pursue a higher amount. For those that are grieving, the first offer you receive may look substantial, but it is best to consult with a lawyer who can verify it will cover all the costs your family has incurred upon the loss of your loved one.

4. Overlooking Non-Economic Damages

Many families focus only on the economic losses, such as medical bills and lost wages, when pursuing a wrongful death claim. However, there are also non-economic damages that are just as important, such as pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and emotional distress. These damages can be challenging to quantify but are an essential part of a wrongful death case. A Broward County wrongful death lawyer can help ensure all relevant damages are included in your claim. Noneconomic losses may look like loss of companionship, stress due to the loss of a loved one, and more.

5. Failing To Consult With An Attorney

A common mistake is trying to handle a wrongful death case without legal representation. The legal process can be overwhelming, and without the proper knowledge of wrongful death laws, it can be easy to make mistakes that could harm your case. Consulting with a qualified lawyer early on can help you understand your rights, avoid common pitfalls, and increase your chances of obtaining a fair settlement.

If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, it’s crucial to avoid these common mistakes. At The Andres Lopez Law Firm, we have successfully secured settlements as large as $875,000 for our clients. Contact us today to speak with a Broward County wrongful death lawyer and discuss your case. Let us help you pursue justice for your family.