Losing a loved one is never easy, and it can be even more difficult when their death was caused by someone else’s negligence. If you find yourself in this situation, you may be considering a wrongful death lawsuit to seek justice for your loved one. If you’re in Florida, here’s what you can expect during a wrongful death lawsuit.
First, it’s important to understand what constitutes a wrongful death in Florida. According to Florida law, a wrongful death is a death that is caused by someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act. This could include a car accident caused by a drunk driver, medical malpractice, or even a workplace accident. In order to file a wrongful death lawsuit, you must be a family member of the deceased and have legal standing to do so.
Once you’ve decided to move forward with a wrongful death lawsuit, the first step is to hire an experienced Florida wrongful death attorney. Your attorney will be able to guide you through the legal process and help you determine the best course of action for your specific case. They will also be able to explain the types of damages you may be entitled to, such as compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, and loss of companionship.
Next, your attorney will file a complaint with the court on your behalf. This will outline the details of your case, including the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death and the damages you are seeking. The defendant will then have a certain amount of time to respond to the complaint.
Once the complaint has been filed, your attorney will begin the discovery process. This involves gathering evidence and information related to the case, such as medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions. Your attorney will also depose witnesses and conduct other interviews as necessary to build a strong case.
After discovery is complete, your case will likely go to mediation. This is a process where both parties will try to reach a settlement outside of court. If a settlement is reached, the case will be closed and you will receive compensation. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial.
During the trial, both sides will present their cases to a judge and jury. Your attorney will argue on your behalf, presenting evidence and calling witnesses to testify. The defendant’s attorney will do the same. After both sides have presented their cases, the jury will make a decision and determine if the defendant is liable for your loved one’s death and, if so, the amount of damages you are entitled to.
It’s important to note that there is a statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits in Florida. This means that you must file your lawsuit within a certain amount of time after your loved one’s death. In Florida, the statute of limitations for wrongful death cases is two years from the date of death. It’s crucial to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that you don’t miss this deadline.
It’s also important to understand that every wrongful death case is unique, and the outcome of your case will depend on the specific circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death. While there’s no way to predict the outcome of your case, having an experienced attorney on your side can increase your chances of a successful outcome.
A wrongful death lawsuit can be a difficult and emotional process, but it can also provide justice and closure for you and your family. If you’re considering a wrongful death lawsuit in Florida, it’s crucial to speak with an experienced attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help you get the compensation and closure you deserve.
At Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A, we understand that losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences anyone can go through. We also know that pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit can be a complex and emotional process. That’s why we are here to help you every step of the way.
Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to helping our clients understand what to expect during a Florida wrongful death lawsuit. We will work closely with you to gather evidence, build a strong case, and advocate for your rights in court.
We understand that every case is unique, and we will take the time to listen to your concerns and provide you with personalized guidance and support throughout the legal process. We have the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to pursue justice on your behalf and help you get the compensation and closure you deserve.
We also handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice, and more. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of legal representation and support, and we will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and interests.
If you’re in Florida and need legal assistance with a wrongful death case, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We offer free consultations, and we will take the time to understand your situation and provide you with the guidance and support you need during this difficult time.