Lakeland Wrongful Death Attorneys
The unexpected loss of a loved one is emotionally devastating and can be financially overwhelming as well. Florida law recognizes these facts and provides an avenue for family members to recover compensation that can help them deal with their loss. At the law office of Mank & Mank, our Lakeland wrongful death attorneys understand what you are going through. We know that money cannot make up for the loss of a loved one, but at the same time we feel strongly that you should not be harmed further by having to deal with the financial burdens that are forced upon you by this loss. Our lawyers are committed to holding responsible parties accountable for their actions and seeing that you are compensated to the maximum extent available.
Financial recovery under Florida wrongful death law
When a death is caused by negligence or other misconduct, Florida law allows the personal representative of the estate to bring a wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent party on behalf of the surviving spouse and children of the deceased. Parents and siblings may also recover for the loss of a loved one, as well as other family members who were dependent on the deceased for support.
The law allows family members to recover compensation for many different aspects of their financial and emotional loss. Examples include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses incurred prior to death
- Loss of earnings of the deceased, including the lost accumulation of expected net business income over a lifetime
- The loss of household services, support and contributions the deceased would have made
- The loss of companionship of a spouse, parent or child; the loss of guidance of a parent; and the mental pain and suffering experienced by a spouse, children or parents
Compensation is not automatic. Just as in a personal injury lawsuit, the burden is on the plaintiff to prove that the defendant was somehow negligent and that this negligence caused the death of the deceased. Additionally, the plaintiff must also be able to prove the value of the monetary damages that are being sought. The defendant, meanwhile, is able to challenge the plaintiff with any available defenses, including arguing that the plaintiff’s own negligence caused or contributed to the accident. Wrongful death lawsuits can be particularly challenging to win when the facts are in dispute, and the assistance of experienced Lakeland wrongful death attorneys who know how to investigate the accident and build a strong case can be invaluable.
Get Help from Dedicated and Experienced Lakeland Wrongful Death Attorneys
When you have lost a loved one, you are experiencing an emotional and difficult time. It can be hard to focus on business or financial matters, and you shouldn’t have to. This is the time to rely on people you can trust to help you make the right decisions and look out for the best interests of you and your family. When legal claims may be involved, don’t act without talking to a lawyer first.
Our Lakeland wrongful death attorneys dedicated to helping improve the lives of Lakeland and Polk County residents. If you have lost a loved one due to another’s negligent or reckless conduct, contact our office for a free consultation about any potential claims you may have.