A wrongful death is an untimely, unforeseen death. The shocking loss sends families into immediate turmoil as they struggle to process what has happened and work through both the practical and emotional consequences. A Lehi personal injury lawyer from Siegfried & Jensen can help families recover their financial stability and secure justice for their loved one.
Our team has earned a “Certificate of Excellence” from Three Best Rated and accolades from other business and legal organizations. We know what it takes to get clients the most favorable claim results possible. A wrongful death lawyer in Lehi is ready to fight for those results for your family.
A Lehi Wrongful Death Lawyer is Here to Help Your Family
It may seem perfectly clear that another party’s negligence caused your loved one’s death. Even so, that party is not likely to admit wrongdoing. They are more likely to deny responsibility and fight against paying your family any compensation. This is why hiring a wrongful death lawyer is in your best interests.
An attorney knows what it takes to hold negligent parties accountable and understands that when filing a Utah wrongful death claim, every detail matters. Our experienced team can investigate the circumstances leading to your loved one’s death, compiling evidence to support your claim and maximize your damages.
A compassionate wrongful death attorney in Lehi also provides care and guidance to you and your family. Losing a loved one is always painful. When that loss is preventable and unexpected, emotions can run especially high. We manage all the legalities of your claim, so you can focus on healing for your family. We’ll answer your questions and keep you informed of all developments throughout the process.
For a free legal consultation with a wrongful death lawyer serving Lehi, call (801) 266-0999
Understanding Utah’s Wrongful Death Laws
Utah Code § 78B-3-106 establishes a wrongful death as one resulting from “the wrongful act or neglect of another.” It also allows the decedent’s “heirs” or “personal representatives” to seek damages from the party who caused the death. Per Utah Code § 78B-3-105, the following parties count as heirs:
- The deceased’s spouse
- The deceased’s children
- The decedent’s natural or adoptive parents
- The decedent’s stepchildren, under specific circumstances
- Another blood relative, per intestate succession, if there is no surviving spouse, children, or parents
The wrongful death statute of limitations in Utah is usually two years. To protect against missing this deadline, connect with a Lehi wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. Sometimes, judges allow for extensions, so even if you think you have missed the opportunity for justice, reach out to Siegfried & Jensen for a free consultation. If your case warrants an extension, we will fight for it.
Wrongful Death Claims Against the Government
The government could be the negligent party in a wrongful death claim. For example, your loved one may die in an accident involving a government vehicle or on unsafe government property. You only have one year to file against the government, so a swift connection with an attorney is critical.
Because of government immunity in wrongful death cases, proceeding with a claim can be more difficult. You can trust our team’s knowledgeable attorneys to seek the best way forward. We are prepared to stand up to any opponent, including the government.
Lehi Wrongful Death Lawyer Near Me (801) 266-0999
When You May Have Grounds for a Wrongful Death Claim
Any situation leading to an unnecessary, preventable death can present grounds for filing a wrongful death claim. To secure compensation, you must present convincing evidence to show that the other party’s negligence or intentional act caused the death and the resulting damages. Some of the more common situations that prompt a claim include:
- Motor Vehicle Crashes: Drunk, fatigued, careless, or reckless drivers put all others on the road at risk.
- Premises Liability Situations: A property owner’s negligence can lead to fatal falls, drownings, or other accidents.
- Acts of Violence: A person could be killed in a domestic violence incident, accidentally caught in the crossfire, or intentionally harmed by someone committing a criminal act.
- Defective Products: Poor product design or manufacturing defects can lead to deadly consequences for product users.
- Medical Malpractice: Failure to diagnose, surgical errors, improper medication administration, and other medical mistakes can lead to death.
In Utah, there are additional steps for filing a medical malpractice wrongful death claim. A Lehi wrongful death lawyer knows those steps and can take your claim through the process with efficiency and accuracy.
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Compensation You Can Collect Through a Claim
Compensation for a wrongful death claim can come through a settlement or trial award. A settlement is an out-of-court resolution. Your attorney negotiates with the other side’s representatives until reaching an agreement regarding compensation. Settlements typically come faster than trial awards.
If the other side delays the negotiation process or refuses to make a fair offer, your attorney will explain the trial option. As long as you file your claim within the statute of limitations, you have the right to fight for justice in court. Our team comprises strategic negotiators and formidable trial attorneys. We can help you determine whether it is better to settle or go to trial.
The State’s comparative negligence system, found in Utah Code § 78B-5-818, applies to wrongful death claims. Heirs can only seek damages if their loved one was 49% or less to blame for the deadly accident. If they hold a smaller percentage, compensation is reduced proportionally.
Types of Damages Available
The amount of compensation heirs receive varies from case to case. Typically, compensation accounts for:
- Funeral and end-of-life expenses
- Related medical costs, if applicable
- The value of the decedent’s projected lost earnings and job benefits
- Surviving family members’ loss of affection and relationship with the decedent
- Pain and suffering experienced by the decedent prior to death, if applicable
You can count on our wrongful death attorneys to fight for the highest amount available in your situation.
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We’ll Fight for Your Family
When a loved one dies, those left behind suffer. They are forced to contend with overwhelming grief, adjust to an unexpected future, and navigate financial fallout.
Siegfried & Jensen can fight to bring financial security back to your family, and with that security, a little less anxiety. A wrongful death lawyer in Lehi is here for you and ready to get to work.
Call or text (801) 266-0999 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form