Wrongful Death

Even though everyone in a family will feel the loss of a loved one, the law limits those who qualify to file a claim for financial compensation. In most cases, the following people may be eligible to collect a financial award from a claim of wrongful death:

• The legal spouse and/or child of the decedent.

• The child of the decedent.

• The parents or siblings of the decedent, under certain circumstances.

• The legal representative of the decedent’s estate.

The law pertaining to who can recover financially from the wrongful death of a loved one can be complex. If you are concerned about your ability to hold the at-fault party financially responsible for the loss of your family member, speak to The Cochran Firm Chicago.

Filing a wrongful death claim can be a time-consuming and complex process. A lawyer who can be an asset to your claim by providing guidance and direction in the following ways:

• A lawyer can help compile documents and evidence to support your claim.

• A lawyer can contact and interview witnesses to validate your claim.

• A lawyer can accurately value your losses and ensure your damages are not undervalued.

• A lawyer can appropriately assign liability to the at-fault party.

• A lawyer can successfully negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurer.

• A lawyer can ensure your claim is filed on time.

One of the most important actions your lawyer can take is to work on building your case while you focus on your family’s mental and emotional healing from the sudden loss of your loved one. Contact The Cochran Firm to ensure that your claim receives the attention and merit it deserves.

If someone else’s action or failure to take appropriate action led to the death of your loved one, financial recovery is probably not the first thing on your mind. In the days and weeks following a loved one’s death, your concentration is likely to center on your loved one’s funeral service and its immediate aftermath.

When you are ready, speak to a lawyer about the wrongful death of your family member. Your lawyer will help you define and evaluate your losses. Recoverable damages can include compensation for:

• Mental anguish resulting from the loss of your loved one.

• Physical suffering your loved one endured that led to their demise.

• Loss of the financial contributions your loved one made to the family.

You may also be eligible to recover the costs associated with your family member’s funeral and burial. If you incurred any of these expenses as the result of your loved one’s death, contact The Cochran Firm to review your eligibility and potential financial recovery with a wrongful death lawyer as soon as you are able.