Losing a loved one is devastating, especially when that loss results from someone else’s negligence or wrongful act. In these heartbreaking circumstances, Georgia law provides a legal avenue known as wrongful death to hold responsible parties accountable and secure compensation for affected families.
At The Jewkes Firm, we understand the emotional and financial turmoil wrongful death cases cause. Our experienced Georgia personal injury attorneys are dedicated to guiding you through the legal process with compassion and skill, fighting to protect your rights and obtain justice.
Wrongful death is a legal term used to describe when a person dies due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional act of another individual, company, or entity. Unlike a typical criminal case that focuses on punishment, a wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit filed by surviving family members to recover monetary damages related to the death.
Examples of common wrongful death cases include:
When someone’s negligent or intentional actions cause a death, Georgia law allows the deceased person’s survivors to seek compensation for their losses.
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2), the person who can file a wrongful death claim is usually the personal representative of the deceased’s estate. This representative is appointed by the probate court and has authority to bring legal claims on behalf of family members.
Surviving family members eligible to benefit from a wrongful death claim include:
If you are unsure who can file in your case, The Jewkes Firm can assist with navigating Georgia’s probate and wrongful death procedures.
Georgia allows survivors to recover both economic and non-economic damages depending on the circumstances of the case. Common damages available include:
Georgian law also limits certain damages in wrongful death claims, so it’s essential to work with experienced wrongful death attorneys who can maximize compensation.
Wrongful death claims in Georgia have a statute of limitations of two years from the date of the person’s death. This means you must file your lawsuit within two years to preserve your right to seek compensation.
Because evidence can be lost and witnesses become unavailable over time, it is best to contact a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible after a loved one’s passing.
The loss of a loved one is overwhelming enough without facing insurance companies or negligent parties alone. At The Jewkes Firm, we offer:
We recognize that wrongful death cases involve deep grief. Our team provides empathetic, attentive support throughout the entire legal process.
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling wrongful death claims throughout Georgia. We understand state laws, court procedures, and insurance tactics.
We fight aggressively to hold responsible parties accountable. Our attorneys thoroughly investigate cases, consult experts, and negotiate powerful settlements or take cases to trial if needed.
We work on a contingency fee basis for wrongful death claims, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only pay legal fees if we recover compensation for you.
The confusion, grief, and financial stress caused by a wrongful death can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to face it alone. The caring and dedicated wrongful death lawyers at The Jewkes Firm are ready to provide the knowledgeable, aggressive representation you need to navigate this difficult time.
Call us today at (770) 771-5130 for a free, no-obligation consultation or fill out our online contact form to schedule your confidential appointment.
Let The Jewkes Firm help you seek justice and peace of mind after a tragic loss. We fight harder so your family can heal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death in Georgia
Can I sue if my loved one’s death was caused by a drunk driver?
Yes. Drunk driving fatalities are a common basis for wrongful death claims. The Jewkes Firm aggressively pursues claims against negligent drivers and their insurers.
What if the deceased did not have a will?
The probate court will appoint a personal representative to handle wrongful death claims. We can guide you through this process.
Will a wrongful death claim punish the person who caused the death?
Wrongful death lawsuits seek financial compensation, not criminal punishment. However, criminal charges may also be filed separately.
How much is a wrongful death case worth?
Damages vary widely based on loss of income, medical expenses, and family circumstances. We evaluate your specific case to pursue maximum recovery.
The Jewkes Firm is well-versed in effectively challenging major insurance companies on your behalf to secure the highest settlement permissible by law. Our primary objective is to ensure your optimal recovery. It is only after this point that we assess the worth of your case.
The timeframe for filing an injury case, also known as the statute of limitations, can vary significantly. As per OCGA §9-3-33, you are granted a two-year period from the date of your injuries or the passing of a family member to initiate your personal injury claim.
There is no upfront cost associated with hiring a personal injury lawyer. Our fees are based on a percentage of your settlement, meaning you only pay if we successfully recover compensation. Our top priority is ensuring your well-being and helping you return to your normal life.
A personal injury lawyer aims to establish negligence and seek restitution for the harm caused by the liable party. Additionally, you may be entitled to compensation for funeral costs, medical expenses, and income lost if you are a family member of someone who died as a result of an injury.
As South Atlanta's most trusted personal injury firm, we understand that being injured can be a traumatic and life-changing event. We fight for our clients to ensure they receive the justice they deserve.
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The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.