The loss of a spouse or child is the most difficult experience a person can endure.  This is even more difficult when the loss is sudden and unexpected.  When the deceased person is an adult, his or her spouse, children, or parents may have the right to seek compensation, depending on the type of case. Following the death of an adult due to someone else’s negligence, the surviving spouse is required to share a portion of the proceeds from any legal action for wrongful death with surviving children and is guaranteed one-third of any recovery for wrongful death. When the death of a minor is involved, the right to recover belongs to the child’s parents.

Determining the appropriate value of a claim for wrongful death and for the estate’s claim is complicated, because it involves many factors.

1. The extent of the injury which led to the person’s death.
2. The economic losses that are recoverable.
3. The individual’s medical history
4. Liability issues related to the situation
5. The venue or location of the trial
6. The identity of the defendant.  A company or large organization may garner less sympathy than an individual defendant.

If you or someone you know has lost a loved one who died as a result of an accident, please tell them to call the Law Offices of Christopher Ligori & Associates  at 813-223-2929 for a free consultation.