5 Essential Items When Filing a Wrongful Death Claim
When you’ve tragically lost a loved one due to another person’s negligence, it can seem like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. From the pain of the loss and financial burdens being placed on close family members to having to make long-term arrangements for children or property, there are many grievances that you may incur.
We understand that the last thing on your mind during this time is taking legal action. However, pursuing a wrongful death claim may be a sound first step towards helping ease the financial burden placed on you. While no amount of money can bring your loved one back, it can help you prepare for the future. If you are looking to file a wrongful death claim, here are some items you may need to get in order.
1. The Decedent’s Death Certificate
The death certification of your family member is one of the first, if not the most important, things you will need when filing a wrongful death claim. It provides official documentation that your loved one has passed away and can help to support other evidence in your case. They also indicate the cause of death, which is essential for the foundation of your claim.
If you do not have a copy of the death certificate, you can obtain a certified one from the state or county vital records office where the death occurred.
2. Documentation of Economic Damages
To be compensated for economic damages, such as lost wages or medical bills, you will need to provide supporting documentation. This may include pay stubs, tax returns, medical records, and more. An experienced wrongful death attorney will be able to help you compile the necessary documents.
3. Evidence of Non-Economic Damages
You may also be able to recover for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and loss of enjoyment of life. While these damages cannot be calculated as easily as economic damages, they are still genuine losses that you have incurred. To prove the value of these damages, you will need evidence such as testimony from friends and family members, journal entries, a letter from a treating mental health professional, or other documentation. An attorney can also help you know what is appropriate evidence for proving non-economic losses.
4. The Police Report
If the death occurred due to a car accident, for example, the police report can provide valuable information about what happened and who was at fault. This can help establish negligence on the part of the other party.
5. An Experienced Wrongful Death Attorney
Navigating the legal system can be challenging, and wrongful death claims are no exception. Having an experienced attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. An effective attorney will be able to handle the more complex legal matters, investigate the facts of your case, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Get Help From Our New Orleans Wrongful Death Attorney
When you’ve experienced the wrongful death of your loved one, your biggest focus should be on your family’s healing and recovery— you can let us handle the rest. Our New Orleans firm has over 100 years of collective experience helping people throughout Louisiana with their losses. Our attorneys are experienced trial lawyers, unafraid to advocate for your rights every step of the way.
If you’re looking for legal assistance, call (504) 475-24299 or fill out this short form to schedule a free consultation.
