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Spokane Wrongful Death Lawyer

The unforeseen death of a loved one is both tragic and traumatic, especially when the reckless actions of another person have caused it. Surviving family members are often left to deal with insurance and legal requirements while in the midst of their grief. A sympathetic Spokane wrongful death lawyer allows you to focus on grieving your loss while they focus on handling your case.

With the aid of a Spokane, WA personal injury lawyer, you can recover damages to help you pay for what could be staggering financial costs. At Siegfried & Jensen, we help you keep the negligent party accountable while getting you the resources you need to heal from your loss. We are on your side and work closely with you from start to finish to see that you receive justice. 

What Constitutes a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

When an individual dies because of another party’s negligence, this is known as a wrongful death. If the deceased were alive and would have had the right to file a personal injury claim for themselves, then a family member may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim on their behalf.

The purpose of a wrongful death lawsuit is to seek compensation for what you have suffered as a result of your loved one’s loss, especially if they left you in a difficult financial position. 

In addition to filing a wrongful death lawsuit, individuals may also be able to claim compensation from insurance policies that they may be named as beneficiaries on, such as a life insurance policy. However, it is important to be aware that insurance companies may act in bad faith by offering a low settlement or attempting to avoid paying out the policy’s death benefits entirely. With the help of a wrongful death attorney in Spokane, you can rest assured that you will not be taken advantage of

When you have the support and counsel of a lawyer, you receive the fortification necessary to be taken seriously by opposing parties and face obstacles as they arise. An experienced lawyer knows how to skillfully navigate complex legalities and negotiate a favorable outcome for you.  Your rights and needs are a high priority when you have a lawyer representing you. 

Who Is Allowed to File a Wrongful Death Claim

When filing a wrongful death lawsuit, only certain individuals have the right to file a claim on behalf of the decedent, according to Chapter 4.20 RCW. These members may each make a claim under the same lawsuit. The individuals who are entitled to file a wrongful death claim include: 

  • Spouse
  • Domestic partner
  • Children or step-children
  • Parents or siblings (if no spouse or children exist)
  • Representative

A Compassionate Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Advocate for You

Filing a wrongful death lawsuit can be an emotional and difficult process, and a compassionate wrongful death lawyer in Spokane can help ease your burden while you are grieving. Understanding your situation, gathering evidence, developing strategies, and negotiating for you are all part of the role of accident lawyers in Washington State. A lawyer ensures your rights are protected and you are not taken advantage of by insurance companies or other opposing parties.  

Additionally, since the deceased’s family or representative is responsible for providing proof in a wrongful death case, a lawyer will also establish the standard of negligence.

Therefore, a lawyer will establish that the defendant owed the deceased a reasonable level of care to prevent harm and, by failing in their responsibility, caused the decedent’s death as a direct result of their reckless actions. The negligent party is responsible for damages in a wrongful death case. 

There are many factors that can affect the outcome of a wrongful death case and how much compensation can be recovered. At Siegfried & Jensen, we’ve helped clients get as much as $2.4 million in a wrongful death case, but settlements can vary widely. Hiring an experienced lawyer not only improves your chances of maximum compensation, but you also receive knowledgeable counsel to help you navigate the intricacies of a wrongful death lawsuit. 

Statute of Limitations in a Wrongful Death Case

When deciding whether or not to file a wrongful death lawsuit, it is important to be aware that there is a limited time frame to file your claim. According to RCW §4.16.080, a claim for compensation in a wrongful death lawsuit may be made within three years of the accident. If a claim is not made within this time frame, the deceased’s loved ones may no longer be able to recover their losses. 

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

A wrongful death is a sudden and tragic loss that leaves a gaping hole in the lives of those the deceased left behind. While the value of a life is priceless and irreplaceable, damages can help ease some of the financial weight left behind by the deceased. When seeking damages in a wrongful death case, the compensation can help cover some of the following losses:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Final medical expenses
  • Lost income
  • Emotional distress
  • Pain and suffering
  • Psychological trauma
  • Loss of quality of life, consortium, and/or companionship

Talking with a lawyer will provide clarity on what you might be entitled to receive as part of your claim. It’s important to keep financial records of any expenses related to your loved one’s death to be used when determining the value of your damages. Your lawyer will be your advocate and work to negotiate the maximum compensation possible. 

A Wrongful Death Lawyer Will Help You Get Justice

Siegfried & Jensen understand that suddenly losing a loved one can leave you reeling and uncertain about how to move forward. Our team is here when you need us the most, and we ensure that you have a lifeline to get you through this difficult time.

Reach out to a Spokane wrongful death attorney today to schedule a free consultation and get justice for your loved one.