Losing someone you love in an accident is one of the most painful experiences you could ever have. The careless actions of another party cause wrongful death and the consequences for the family members could be overwhelming. If someone you love lost their life in this manner, you could have a wrongful death claim on your hands. Speak to a wrongful death attorney to learn more about your options.
When someone you love needlessly loses their life to the negligence of someone else, your life will never be the same. No one can bring them back or change the circumstances of what happened. However, a compassionate Chicago wrongful death lawyer can help you and your family recover compensation that will help you as you forge the path forward. There are several ways a wrongful death lawyer can help.
Determining Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim
One of the most crucial pieces of a wrongful death claim is determining who can and should file the claim. Illinois law is very specific about who can file such a claim. The claim must be brought by a “personal representative” of the deceased victim. Typically, the personal representative will be an immediate family member such as a spouse, a parent, or an adult child.
Ensuring Your Claim is Filed on Time
A Chicago wrongful death attorney is also familiar with the Illinois statute of limitations for wrongful death claims. The statute of limitations is a deadline for filing a lawsuit. This deadline is not the same for every state or every type of personal injury claim. Not filing a claim within the specified timeline will invalidate your claim.
In Illinois, personal representatives have two years from the date of the death to file a claim. If the decedent was injured or was ill before their death, the statute of limitations begins on the date of their death, not the date of the injury or illness.
Negotiating a Settlement
Your Chicago wrongful death lawyer works to settle wrongful death claims without going to court whenever possible. They are skilled negotiators who understand what it takes to achieve a fair recovery from the death of a loved one. A negotiated settlement will decrease the time and expense of the lawsuit. It is also beneficial as it doesn’t require going to court and testifying, which can be emotionally draining and upsetting. While no amount of money can’t undo what has already been done, the least you could receive is fair compensation for the damages made and handling all the upfront expenses.
Chicago Wrongful death Lawyer
A Chicago wrongful death attorney has many critical jobs that will help you achieve the best outcome possible after the needless loss of a loved one. They can build your case to include all liable parties, highlight the damages you’ve suffered, and negotiate to help you avoid going to court. If litigation is required, they can ensure that your lawsuit is filed on time and show the court why your family deserves compensation for the loss of your loved one.
