Gainesville Wrongful Death Attorneys
Losing someone you love is one of the most difficult ordeals you will ever experience. When an accident caused by the negligent actions of someone else caused the preventable death, it is even more frustrating and you will likely be left struggling with many emotions, as well as a new financial burden. An experienced Gainesville wrongful death attorney can answer your questions after the wrongful death of a loved one, and will fight for your rights to help you recover the fair compensation you deserve after the death.
Our Attorney Defines Wrongful Death in Gainesville
In Gainesville, as throughout the rest of Florida, a wrongful death is defined as any death that is the result of another person’s negligence, or carelessness. Florida law states that the personal representative of the estate must file a wrongful death claim. If the deceased did not name a personal representative, the court will appoint one. If the personal representative is successful with their claim, any damages awarded are distributed to immediate family members and beneficiaries.
Wrongful death claims are not criminal cases but instead, they fall under tort law, even when the death was the result of a crime. This means you must only prove the negligent actions of another person more likely than not caused the death. You do not have to prove they caused the death beyond a reasonable doubt. Criminal penalties, such as jail time, are intended to pay restitution to the state, while a wrongful death civil claim will help you claim damages such as the lost income of your loved one.
Our Attorney will File Your Wrongful Death Claim in a Timely Manner
It is important to file your wrongful death claim as soon as possible. The sooner you file, the sooner you can recover the financial compensation you need to help you move on from the death. However, under the law, it is also important to file your claim within a timely manner. The statute of limitations, or time limit, on wrongful death claims is two years from the date of the death. If you do not file your claim within this time, you will likely forfeit your legal right to claim any compensation at all.
Prior to filing your claim, an attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to determine who was at fault for the wrongful death, and collect evidence to prove your claim. This is a crucial step for your claim, but it can also be a long process. Any time you lose someone due to the negligence of another person, you should always speak to a Gainesville wrongful death attorney as soon as possible.
Our Gainesville Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help During this Difficult Time
Losing a loved one is never easy, but our Gainesville wrongful death attorney at Meldon Law can help you through this difficult time. Our seasoned attorney knows how to determine who was at fault for the death, and how to prove it so you claim the fair settlement you deserve. Call us today at 800-373-8000 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and obtain the sound legal advice you need.
