Michael Padway & Associates Wrongful Death Lawyers
Serving Washington, D.C.

Wrongful death lawsuits allege that the death of a loved one occurred as a direct result of negligence or mistreatment by a medical professional. Wrongful death suits aim to hold a negligent or drunk driver, product manufacturer, drug company, doctor, hospital or medical professional accountable for the victim’s death. The victim’s family members or beneficiaries may be entitled to financial compensation as a result of the defendant’s negligence. Although monetary compensation can’t erase the pain and injustice caused by the death of your loved one, it can help the family cover the costs associated with death and provide for the future.

How do I tell if I have a wrongful death claim?

A wrongful death lawsuit alleges that the victim was killed as a result of the negligence and that the surviving dependents or beneficiaries are entitled to monetary damages as a result of the defendant’s conduct. Wrongful death cases can be very difficult to prove and include timely research. If you even have the slightest inclination that your loved one’s death may be the result of negligence, a defective product, a drunk driver, or medical malpractice, contact a Michael Padway & Associates injury lawyer as soon as possible. Time is an important factor when filing wrongful death claims.

What damages are recoverable in a wrongful death claim?

If your loved one’s death could have been prevented, you and your family may be entitled to the following compensation:

• Immediate expenses associated with the death (medical & funeral)
• Loss of victim’s anticipated earnings until time of retirement or death
• Loss of value to the victim’s estate, and loss of value to the estate caused by loss of future earnings
• Loss of aid comfort and society to the survivors
• General damages for pain and suffering before death (only in some states)
• Punitive damages (only in rare cases)

Click Here for a list of online resources for dealing with the unexpected death of a loved one