Careless actions can have dire consequences and might even cause the death of another person. If a loved one has perished due to the negligence of another person, securing the services of a wrongful death attorney is crucial. In Hamilton, OH, Pater Pater & Pater Co proudly assist local clients facing challenging legal issues, from personal injury claims to providing help with probate law.

FAQ: A Wrongful Death Attorney Provides Insight

Is There a Difference Between Murder & Wrongful Death?

Wrongful death is a civil matter, which means that the party determined to be liable will be punished via fine alone. Conversely, murder is a criminal charge, which can incur jail time, as well as fines. The way guilt/liability is established in either case can also differ. Murder charges require the prosecution to prove the crime was committed beyond a reasonable doubt while wrongful death entails establishing a “preponderance of evidence” that the defendant’s negligent actions led to another person’s death.

Does the Statute of Limitations Apply to Wrongful Death?

In general, you’ll have up to three years to file a claim. However, you should be aware that the statute of limitations can vary quite a bit from state to state. If you have questions about your state’s laws, speak with a wrongful death attorney right away. Failure to file promptly can impact your case a great deal.

How Are Damages Calculated?

While the actual amount can vary greatly depending on many different factors, in general, there are a few a considerations made calculating damages. Loss of companionship and care, deprivation of financial support provided by the deceased, and expenses related to medical/funeral costs are relevant when establishing the proper compensation amount.

Who Can File a Claim?

Usually, only the immediate family of the deceased can file a claim. This is because these people are most likely to be financially dependent on the person who’s died, and it’s less likely that an extended relative would fit this category. This can also vary from state to state and typically requires expert witness testimony to establish dependency.

Pater Pater & Pater Co has established a reputation for knowledgeable and dedicated legal service, no matter what you’re up against. Schedule a consultation with a skilled Hamilton attorney today by calling (513) 867-1411. You can also like this firm on Facebook to stay up-to-date.