Cleveland Wrongful Death Attorneys
Representing the Families of Those Who Have Suffered Tragic Deaths
Losing a loved one is never easy. When a death is sudden and unexpected, it can be especially difficult to cope. When a death is caused by the negligent or reckless actions of another person or organization, however, the pain can be nearly unbearable. You may feel that you have no one to turn to. You may feel that you have no legal recourse. This is when you need an attorney you can trust to help you through this difficult time.
At Murray & Murray, our Cleveland wrongful death attorneys are here to help you through this difficult time. We understand how devastating it is to lose a loved one, and we know that no amount of compensation can ever replace that person. However, we also know that you and your family deserve to be fairly compensated for the loss you have suffered. We know how to hold negligent parties accountable for the pain and suffering they have caused, and we know how to go after the maximum compensation you are owed.
Call us at (419) 664-3711 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our wrongful death legal team in Cleveland.
What Is Considered a "Wrongful Death" in Ohio?
In Ohio, a "wrongful death" refers to a death that occurs as a result of another person or organization's negligent or wrongful conduct. In order to bring a wrongful death claim, you must be the "personal representative" of your loved one's estate. This means that you have been appointed by the court to manage your loved one's financial and/or property affairs.
Wrongful death claims can be brought by:
- Spouses
- Children
- Parents
- Other family members
Ohio law defines a "wrongful death" as any death that occurs as a result of:
- Negligence
- Intentional wrongdoing
- Criminal activity
- Medical malpractice
- Product defects
- Automobile accidents
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Cleveland?
The damages you can recover in a wrongful death lawsuit depend on the specifics of your case. In most instances, however, the defendant will be liable for compensatory damages, which are meant to reimburse the plaintiff for losses and/or relieve them of financial burdens caused by the wrongful death. Common compensatory damages include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses and bills
- Lost wages
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of support
In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. Punitive damages are meant to punish the defendant and discourage similar conduct in the future. Punitive damages are generally only awarded in cases of severe wrongdoing.
What Is Involved in a Wrongful Death Case in Cleveland?
Filing a wrongful death lawsuit is a complex process. The personal representative of the estate must follow strict legal procedures and deadlines. If you have been appointed the personal representative of your loved one's estate, you can rely on our team at Murray & Murray to guide you through the process and make sure you meet all necessary deadlines.
The steps involved in a wrongful death case include:
- Determining whether you have a valid claim
- Determining the cause of death
- Determining who was at fault
- Establishing the value of your loved one's life
- Preparing and submitting the necessary paperwork
- Communicating with the defendant's attorney
- Negotiating a settlement
- If necessary, going to trial
This process can vary depending on the specifics of your case. Our Cleveland wrongful death attorneys at Murray & Murray will walk you through every step of the process and do everything we can to secure a favorable outcome.
Contact Our Cleveland Attorneys at Murray & Murray for Help with Your Wrongful Death Claim
At Murray & Murray, we have a long history of effectively representing families who have lost a loved one due to someone else's negligence. Our Cleveland wrongful death lawyers understand how to hold those responsible for your loss accountable for their actions and get you and your family the compensation you deserve.
We know that no amount of money can ever replace your loved one, but we also know that you and your family deserve to be fairly compensated for the loss you have suffered. We are here to help you through this difficult time.
If you have lost a loved one due to another person's wrongful actions, contact us at (419) 664-3711 or reach out to us online for a free consultation.