The loss of a loved one is a devastating experience that is even more difficult when the loss is sudden and unexpected. Because the decedent’s loved ones are focused on the grieving process, it is often difficult to decide whether to file a wrongful death lawsuit should you suspect negligence was involved. If you are considering filing a claim, our Atlanta wrongful death attorneys can evaluate your case, at no cost to you, to help make your decision easier. Simply fill out our free case review form and an Atlanta wrongful death attorney will evaluate your case. If your claim is valid, we can assist you through the process of filing a wrongful death lawsuit in Georgia, handling your case both aggressively and with compassion.

Georgia Wrongful Death Law

In Georgia, only certain individuals can pursue a wrongful death lawsuit if a loved one was killed as a result of another’s negligence, recklessness or carelessness. In general, when the deceased person is an adult, their spouse and children have the right to pursue compensation. The remaining spouse must share a part of the proceeds from any legal action with the deceased’s children, but is guaranteed one-third of the recovery. When negligent actions take the life of a minor, the child’s parents have the legal right to seek compensation. If the deceased does not have a spouse, child or parent, the person’s estate has the right to pursue a wrongful death action. Any compensation from a wrongful death claim pursued by the deceased’s estate would be divided according to the will. If a will does not exist, compensation will be distributed according to Georgia’s laws of intestate succession.

Georgia wrongful death law states that individuals have the right to recover the “full value of the life of the decedent” without subtracting any of the personal or necessary expenses of the deceased had he or she lived. The “full value” of the deceased is not limited to items that have economic value, such as lost wages and medical bills, but also includes intangible items which cannot be assigned a cash value. For instance, loss of companionship would be considered a non-economic damage.

Additionally, the executor of the deceased’s estate can seek compensation for pain and suffering, as well as medical and funeral expenses. In some circumstances, punitive damages may also be recovered.

Atlanta Wrongful Death Attorneys

Our Atlanta wrongful death lawyers will take care of the paperwork, investigation and research needed to have a solid case. We will also strive to answer all of your questions to help you understand the legal side of a wrongful death claim. Our wrongful death lawyers in Georgia understand that no amount of money can replace a loved one; however, a wrongful death lawsuit can seek justice and recover monetary compensation to ensure financial stability for the decedent’s family. Fill out our free case review form today and our wrongful death lawyers in Georgia will evaluate your claim, at no cost to you.