Layton Wrongful Death Lawyer
The loss of a loved one is a devastating experience, especially when the negligence of others causes it. At Siegfried & Jensen, our Layton wrongful death lawyer understands the emotional toll this can take and is here to provide compassionate legal guidance and help you navigate the complex legal process.
We have recovered $2.4 million for a wrongful death case on behalf of our client and their family. Do not let the legalese and complexities of filing a lawsuit stand in the way of recovering the compensation you deserve. Contact our Layton personal injury lawyer today to help you seek justice.
Eligibility to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
A wrongful death occurs when an individual dies due to the negligence of another party. Family members may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit under Utah Code §78B-3-106 if the deceased had survived and would have had the right to file a personal injury claim. The goals of a wrongful death case are to recover financial damages for the loss of a loved one and to hold the responsible party accountable for their negligence.
In addition to a wrongful death lawsuit, surviving family members may be eligible for compensation from life insurance policies or other sources. However, it is important to be aware that insurance companies can try to delay or deny claims. Working with a Layton wrongful death attorney can help represent your interests, whether negotiating with insurance adjusters or representing you in court.
If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, do not hesitate to seek legal advice. A wrongful death attorney at Siegfried & Jensen is ready to help you pursue a wrongful death lawsuit in Utah, no matter the situation. Contact us today to set up a free case consultation and get your questions answered.
Persons Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim
Not just anyone can file a wrongful death lawsuit. According to Utah Code §78B-3-105, only certain individuals are eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the deceased. Typically, these include a personal representative of the deceased’s estate or the deceased’s surviving spouse, children, or parents.
In some cases, the deceased’s siblings or other relatives may be able to file a claim if no other eligible parties are available. If you have lost a loved one due to wrongful death, it is crucial to seek legal advice to determine who is eligible to file a claim and protect your rights. Contact our wrongful death lawyer in Layton for a free case evaluation.
Seeking Damages in a Wrongful Death Case
A wrongful death can have a profound impact on a family. At Siegfried & Jensen, our experienced attorneys understand the emotional and financial challenges you may be facing. We are dedicated to providing compassionate legal guidance and seeking justice for your loved one.
In a wrongful death lawsuit, surviving family members may be eligible to receive compensation for economic damages, non-economic damages, and potentially punitive damages under Utah law.
Economic damages include medical expenses incurred before and after the death, funeral costs, lost income, loss of future earnings, and loss of benefits. These typically can be easily calculated and backed by evidence since these are expenses commonly associated with bills, invoices, and documentation.
Non-economic damages include emotional distress, pain and suffering, loss of companionship, loss of guidance, and other intangible losses. These are more difficult to calculate and will often require assistance from your wrongful death attorney in Layton to ensure that you have determined your comprehensive case value. We will also make sure that you seek damages both for current and future losses.
Punitive Damages in Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Punitive damages are not intended to compensate the victim or their family for their losses. Instead, they are meant to punish the defendant for their egregious or reckless behavior and deter similar conduct in the future. Punitive damages are typically awarded in cases where the defendant’s conduct was:
- Malicious: The defendant acted with a conscious disregard for the rights of others.
- Oppressive: The defendant engaged in conduct that was unreasonably harsh or burdensome.
- Fraudulent: The defendant intentionally deceived or misled others.
When determining whether to award punitive damages and the appropriate amount, the court will consider factors such as the severity of the harm that was caused, the defendant’s financial situation, the motive behind the negligence, and whether the defendant has a history of similar misconduct. Punitive damages are not always awarded in wrongful death cases but are typically reserved for the most egregious cases of misconduct.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Layton, Utah
A wrongful death case occurs when an individual dies due to the negligence or intentional misconduct of another party. In essence, it is a legal claim brought by the surviving family members of the deceased against the responsible party. Wrongful deaths can happen from a variety of personal injuries due to the negligence of others.
Filing a wrongful death lawsuit helps surviving family members seek justice and compensation for the losses suffered, such as medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional distress.
If you have further questions, check out our common questions or contact us for a free case consultation and get specific answers from our experienced wrongful death lawyers tailored to your unique situation.
Seek Justice with Siegfried & Jensen: a Proven Track Record
At Siegfried & Jensen, we have the legal resources and experience necessary to pursue your wrongful death claim aggressively. When a loved one is lost due to wrongful death, seeking justice and holding the responsible parties accountable is crucial. At Siegfried & Jensen, our experienced wrongful death attorneys have a proven track record of success.
We have secured substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients, demonstrating our commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes.
We understand the emotional toll of losing a loved one and will provide compassionate and personal support throughout the process. Contact our team today to set up a free case consultation.