How to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Wrongful Death Lawsuit Papers on Desk for Lawsuit with Glasses

The loss of a loved one is always tragic. But the loss is even greater when it was caused because someone else was negligent. If you lose a loved one and believe someone else was at fault, your family may be able to bring a wrongful death lawsuit.

The wrongful death lawyers at Michigan Injury Attorneys will guide you through one of the most difficult times in your life. We will listen as you describe what happened, investigate the circumstances that led to the loss of your loved one, offer advice on how to move forward, and fight for the compensation you and your family deserve.

What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

In Michigan, the family members of a deceased person can file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for the loss of a loved one. The lawsuit is filed by the estate representative in the name of the estate of the deceased person. Wrongful death lawsuits allow the family of the deceased person to seek compensation for:

  • Loss of financial support;
  • Loss of services;
  • Medical care;
  • Loss of society and companionship;
  • Funeral expenses; and
  • Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased.

Most wrongful death lawsuits include additional claims for negligence.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Michigan?

A wrongful death lawsuit can be filed against any individual, corporation, or entity responsible for causing the death of another person. The following relatives of the deceased person are entitled to compensation through a lawsuit:

  • Spouse;
  • Children and step-children;
  • Parents and grandparents;
  • Brothers and sisters;
  • Descendants;
  • People who would inherit from the deceased person’s estate.

Any money recovered in a lawsuit becomes part of the deceased person’s estate and is distributed according to the estate plan, or according to state law if there was no estate plan.

How Long Do You Have to File a Michigan Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Wrongful death claims are recognized under Michigan’s wrongful death statute. But Michigan’s wrongful death statute does not specify a statute of limitations, which sets the time limit for filing a lawsuit. Therefore, the statute of limitations is determined by the underlying claim. In Michigan, the statute of limitations for most negligence claims is three years.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death

Any accident that causes the death of another person can give rise to a claim for wrongful death. Common accidents that cause wrongful death include:

If you believe a loved one was killed because someone else was negligent, Michigan Injury Attorneys can help.

Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

When you work with our wrongful death lawyers, we will obtain the documents necessary to investigate your claim. We will identify the responsible parties and notify them that they are being sued. In some cases, we can quickly negotiate a fair and reasonable resolution to the claim. In others, we must file a wrongful death lawsuit to prove your case in court.

Contact the Wrongful Death Lawyers at Michigan Injury Attorneys Today

When tragedy strikes, it can be difficult to think about protecting your family’s legal rights. But the time for filing a lawsuit passes quickly. Contact our Michigan wrongful death lawsuit lawyers today to schedule a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation and how we can help.

While no amount of money will make up for the loss of a loved one, financial compensation can replace lost income and inheritance, pay for the cost of future living expenses, and provide closure knowing that justice has been served.

When negligence causes the loss of a loved one, Michigan Injury Attorneys stand ready to protect your family’s rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Categories: Wrongful Death