Wrongful Death Attorney in Tampa, FL

Losing a loved one is one of the most painful experiences anyone can face. Regardless of how it happens, families are often left not only with overwhelming grief but also with unexpected financial and legal challenges.

While nothing can truly replace the loss of a spouse, child, or parent, pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide a measure of justice and financial support for those left behind. Meldon Law’s Tampa wrongful death lawyers can help you pursue the compensation your family needs to move forward.

We approach wrongful death cases with compassion, respect, and dedication. The role of our Tampa personal injury lawyers is to shoulder the legal burden so your family can focus on grieving, healing, and honoring your loved one’s memory. Contact our law firm today for a free consultation.

Why Choose Meldon Law for a Wrongful Death Case

At Meldon Law, our Tampa wrongful death attorneys know that no lawsuit can truly heal the pain of losing a loved one. What we can do is stand beside you, fight for justice, and provide the support and guidance your family needs during such a difficult time. Here’s why families across Tampa and throughout Florida trust us:

• Compassionate, Client-First Approach: We treat every client like family. Read testimonials from past clients to learn more.
• A Track Record of Results: With decades of experience in personal injury and wrongful death law, we have the knowledge and courtroom experience to take on powerful insurance companies and corporations. You can read more about how we’ve helped individuals and families in our case results.
• Community Commitment: We proudly support charities, local organizations, and causes that make our communities stronger.

With Meldon Law, you’re choosing advocates who care deeply about both your family’s recovery and the legacy of your loved one.

What Is Wrongful Death Under Florida Law?

In Florida, a wrongful death occurs when someone loses their life because of another person’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act. While every case is unique, the law is designed to hold the at-fault party accountable and provide compensation to surviving family members.

Examples of wrongful death cases include:

• Car accidents caused by distracted or drunk drivers
• Slips and falls or other premises liability accidents, such as near construction sites or on properties that haven’t been maintained
• Truck accidents, where either a truck driver or their trucking company acted negligently

The Statute of Limitations on Wrongful Death Cases

When grieving the loss of a loved one, the idea of taking legal action may feel overwhelming. Unfortunately, Florida law sets strict deadlines for filing wrongful death lawsuits, making it important to act sooner rather than later.

In most cases, families have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Florida. Missing this deadline usually means losing the right to pursue compensation, no matter how strong the case may be.

A wrongful death case is not about placing a dollar value on a life; it’s about accountability, closure, and ensuring that families have the resources they need to move forward. If you overstep the time limit, you risk not getting that accountability and closure.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida?

After the devastating loss of a loved one, many families wonder whether they have the legal right to bring a wrongful death claim. Florida law lays out specific rules on who can file and benefit from such a claim.

A wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This representative may be named in the will or appointed by the court if no will exists. While they file the claim, it is done on behalf of surviving family members who are eligible for compensation, including:

• Surviving Spouse: A spouse is usually the primary beneficiary and may recover damages for lost support and services, loss of companionship, protection, and emotional pain and suffering.
• Children: Minor children can recover damages for the loss of parental guidance, support, and companionship. In some cases, adult children may also be eligible.
• Parents: If a child dies due to wrongful death, surviving parents may pursue compensation for their emotional pain and suffering, as well as financial losses.

Understanding these rules is crucial because they determine not just who can bring a claim, but also who can receive compensation once a case is resolved.

Recoverable Compensation in a Wrongful Death Claim

Florida law allows survivors to pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic losses. These may include:

• Medical Expenses: Any medical costs related to the final illness or injury, such as hospital bills, emergency care, or surgeries, can be recovered.
• Funeral Expenses and Burial Costs: Families may seek compensation for funeral arrangements, burial, or cremation expenses.
• Loss of Financial Support: If the deceased contributed to household income, surviving family members can recover damages for lost wages, benefits, and future earning capacity.
• Loss of Household Services: Compensation may also cover the value of services the deceased provided, such as childcare, caregiving, or household responsibilities.
• Loss of Companionship and Guidance: A surviving spouse may recover for the loss of love, protection, and companionship. Children may be compensated for the loss of parental guidance and support.
• Emotional Pain and Suffering: Beneficiaries may recover damages for the emotional devastation caused by their loss.

Our legal team can ensure that every potential area of recovery is pursued.

How a Tampa Wrongful Death Attorney from Meldon Law Can Help

After losing a loved one, the thought of navigating the legal system can feel overwhelming. A wrongful death attorney’s role is to take that burden off your shoulders so you and your family can focus on grieving and healing. At Meldon Law, we approach every case with both compassion and determination.

Here are some of the ways we can help:

• Investigating the Cause of Death: We gather evidence such as reports from the Tampa Police Department, medical records, workplace safety documents, or product testing results to identify exactly what went wrong.
• Proving Negligence: Whether it’s a reckless driver, a careless employer, or a negligent landlord, our team works to establish who was responsible for your loved one’s passing.
• Working with Experts: We often consult accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, or financial experts to strengthen your case and calculate the full impact of your loss.
• Handling Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may try to minimize or deny claims. We step in to protect your family’s rights and negotiate for the compensation you deserve.
• Filing and Managing Lawsuits: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take the case to court.

Wrongful death cases are not only about financial recovery; they’re about justice and closure. Our team guides you through the process with sensitivity and respect.

Take the Next Step Toward Justice and Healing

Meldon Law’s wrongful death attorneys in Tampa understand the emotional weight of these cases. Our team is here to handle the legal burden, protect your rights, and fight for the justice your loved one deserves. With our compassionate approach and deep commitment to the Tampa community, you can trust that your case will be handled with care, respect, and determination.

Call Meldon Law today to schedule your free consultation. Let us stand beside you during this difficult time and help you seek both justice and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions