Wrongful Death
The worst injury one can suffer as a result of someone else’s wrongdoing is of course death. While the victims in such cases obviously can’t file suit against the persons responsible, the surviving family members can do so on the victims’ behalf. A successful wrongful death suit will allow the victim’s loved ones to receive compensation for their loss, including damages for the loss of support, any medical or funeral expenses, and the loss of consortium. This section includes resources on wrongful death and the process involved in filing a wrongful death suit. In addition, you’ll find articles explaining physician-patient privilege, the discovery rule, and wrongful death cases involving children and the elderly.
- Wrongful Death Overview
This article has all the basics on how to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Learn about how to prove a wrongful death occurred, how damages are calculated, and where to find a wrongful death attorney.
- Time Limits and the "Discovery" Rule
Special rules apply when trying to gather information in wrongful death cases. This article explains the law behind the wrongful death discovery process, and how long you have to decide whether to bring a case.
- Children and the Elderly
No amount of money can replace the loss of a person, but the legal system needs to calculate money damages somehow. Children and the elderly present special challenges when determining monetary loss, which this article explains.
- Physician-Patient Privilege
Doctors are required to protect the information in the patients’ medical records, but some exceptions apply in wrongful death cases. Read about when a doctor may disclose her patient’s medical information after that patient has died.
- Wrongful Death FAQ
Learn about the different types of wrongful death lawsuits, how to calculate damages, and the difference between civil and criminal actions; as well as which one you might be able to pursue when you lose a loved one.
- Drowning
Drowning affects thousands of families every year, and many states have special safety rules around bodies of water. Learn about these rules can affect a wrongful death suit in which the victim drowned.