Gahanna Wrongful Death Lawyers Who Stand With Grieving Families
The sudden loss of a loved one is always a tragedy. When that death is caused by another’s negligence, however, the emotional toll can be even greater. Having to go through a complicated legal process just to seek justice can be frustrating and overwhelming, especially for a grieving family. At DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele, we believe you should not have to carry that burden alone.
With 130 years of combined experience, our wrongful death attorneys have the tenacity and skill to stand with you in your pursuit of justice. As a general practice law firm, our team can anticipate and address the wider legal issues that may affect your case. For example, a wrongful death claim might involve elements of medical malpractice or truck accident liability. Our broad experience in Ohio law ensures our lawyers are prepared for every contingency, and our client-first approach ensures you receive the high-quality counsel you deserve.
Clarifying Your Legal Options After A Wrongful Death
A wrongful death happens when someone dies because of another person’s careless behavior, intentional actions or failure to act when they had a legal duty to do so. These cases can arise from many different events. Whether it is a car collision, a medical malpractice incident or other forms of personal injury, our lawyers will take the time to review the circumstances of each case.
At DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele, we understand that a wrongful death claim is about more than financial recovery. It is about seeking justice and holding the at-fault party accountable. It is about making sure something like this doesn’t happen to another family. Our team will:
- Thoroughly investigate the incident to identify all parties who could be responsible for the wrongful death
- Work with professionals such as doctors and accident reconstructionists to build a compelling wrongful death case
- Communicate with the insurance adjusters and the opposing counsel on your behalf
- Pursue all available strategies to help your family get fair compensation and justice
The idea of holding a person or company responsible for a wrongful death can seem impossible while you are dealing with your loss. Our wrongful death lawyers are here to stand with you. While no amount of money can replace your loved one, our legal team will work relentlessly to help secure the financial stability your family needs to move forward.
What Damages Can A Wrongful Death Claim Recover In Ohio?
While the exact amount of compensation can vary, Ohio law allows you to recover both economic and noneconomic damages. A wrongful death lawsuit may cover:
- Medical and funeral expenses: These are the direct financial costs incurred by the family due to the wrongful death, including medical bills from the time of the incident until the time of death, as well as costs for burial, cremation and funeral services
- Lost future income and benefits: This covers the financial support the deceased would have provided had they lived, such as wages, health insurance benefits, retirement funds, prospective inheritances and the like
- Compensation for the emotional loss: A wrongful death lawsuit may also include damages for the emotional impact of the loss, including the loss of companionship, society, guidance and care
Our wrongful death attorneys will evaluate your specific situation and help determine what damages your family can pursue.
Who Can File A Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
While it is the deceased’s person’s family who will receive the potential compensation from a wrongful death claim, they are not the ones who can actually file that claim in court. In Ohio, only the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit on the family’s behalf.
The personal representative is the person appointed by the probate court to manage the estate. Any compensation recovered in a wrongful death action, however, goes to the legal beneficiaries, who are prioritized in this order:
- Surviving spouse: A spouse is often the primary beneficiary of the estate, and they may get compensation for the loss of their spouse’s companionship, support and other damages related to the marital relationship
- Children: This includes both minor and adult children of the deceased, and they may receive compensation for the loss of their parent’s care, guidance and financial support
- Parents: The parents of the deceased could also be legal beneficiaries, particularly if the deceased person was a minor or had no spouse or children
Our wrongful death attorneys will help you prepare the necessary documents and ensure a personal representative is properly appointed. Without a representative, a wrongful death lawsuit cannot move forward. Our team will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring it goes as smoothly as possible.
Let Us Help Your Family Seek Justice Through A Wrongful Death Case: Call Us Today
When a family in Gahanna or Franklin County loses a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, the legal process can feel daunting. However, you do not have to face it alone. Our wrongful death lawyers can provide the dedicated support you need for peace of mind.
Contact our office today to schedule a confidential and free 30-minute consultation. Our experienced wrongful death attorneys can assess your situation and help you understand your legal options. Call us at 866-274-1842 or send us a message through our website to discuss your case with an attorney.