Lawyer Greg Stokes Explains Wrongful Death
A “wrongful death” lawsuit is unique. It seeks payment for the loss of the victim’s life after a death caused by someone else’s fault.
1. Who can make a claim in a wrongful death lawsuit? If the victim was married, it will be his or her spouse. If the victim was single, the court will appoint a relative to receive the settlement or award and distribute it according to the victim’s will or, if there was no will, according to Georgia law.
2. How much can be paid for the claim? By Georgia law, money compensation is owing for the full value of the person’s life. This amount may include the loss of the victim’s likely lifetime earnings, the victim’s pain and suffering if the victim did not die instantly, the victim’s medical and funeral expenses, and any other amounts needed to compensate for the full value of what that person’s life meant to him or her.
The full value of the victim’s life from his or her viewpoint is not a single, clear amount. A skillful trial attorney who handles wrongful death cases is more likely than others to be able to persuade an insurance company or jury to put a high value on the victim’s life.
Stokes & Kopitsky are skilled, experienced Atlanta accident attorneys who help victims and families in cases of serious injury and death. We offer you live-person answering 24/7, and our consultations are free. We advance all costs, and our fees and the costs are paid from the settlement we obtain for you. If we do not obtain a settlement or court award for you, there are no fees.
We are here to help you. Please call us toll-free at 800-700-5050 for highly experienced, caring legal help for a serious injury or wrongful death that was the fault of someone else.
