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Wrongful death law in Fort Lauderdale, Florida is designed to protect the rights of individuals who have lost a loved one due to negligence, default, or wrongful act of another person. This includes cases resulting from auto accidents, medical malpractice, workplace mishaps, and various other circumstances. This type of civil action seeks compensation for damages such as medical and funeral expenses, loss of companionship and protection, and mental pain and suffering.
Engaging a lawyer for wrongful death lawsuits in Fort Lauderdale is essential because these are complex cases. Lawyers can help establish negligence, designate an appropriate personal representative, and ensure that claims meet the strict statutes of limitations. Legal advice is also crucial in calculating and negotiating fair compensation for economic and non-economic damages. In wrongful death cases, the burden of proof lies with the plaintiff, making experienced legal representation vital.
Under Florida's Wrongful Death Act, any compensation received is distributed amongst the decedent's survivors in accordance with their level of dependency on the deceased. The law also stipulates a statute of limitations of two years from the date of death during which a wrongful death lawsuit may be filed. Not everyone can file a wrongful death claim, however. The personal representative of the deceased's estate must file the claim on behalf of the eligible survivors, which typically include the spouse, children, and sometimes parents and other dependent relatives.
A wrongful death is one that occurs as the result of negligence, default, breach of contract, or wrongful act by another individual or entity.
Under Florida's statute of limitations, a lawsuit for wrongful death must be filed within two years of the date of death.
A wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the decedent's estate on behalf of the eligible survivors.
Compensatory damages in wrongful death cases can include medical and funeral expenses, loss of companionship and protection, and mental pain and suffering among other expenses.
An experienced wrongful death lawyer can handle legal procedures, establish liability, calculate fair compensation and negotiate settlements on your behalf.
For additional information, consult the Florida Statutes on Wrongful Death (Title XLV, chapters 768.16-768.26) or refer to resources provided by the Florida Bar Association and the Broward County Bar Association. Support groups like Bereaved Survivors of Homicide also offer assistance.
If you believe you have a wrongful death case, it's imperative to consult with experienced legal counsel immediately. Document all relevant information regarding the case and maintain records of any associated expenses. Keep in mind that wrongful death cases should be initiated promptly due to the limited timeframe stipulated by the statute of limitations.
