Our Vancouver Wrongful Death Attorney gavel and balance scales A Vancouver wrongful death attorney may be able to provide guidance if you are seeking compensation after the death of a loved one. Wrongful death lawsuits are often complicated, but having a proper understanding of the general guidelines involved can help the process of filing a lawsuit go smoothly.

What happens when a person dies before they can bring a personal injury lawsuit?

The outcome of the situation depends on whether a person dies because of the injuries or as a result of unrelated causes. If a person is injured in an accident and dies as a result of those injuries, the person’s heirs may be eligible for compensation through a lawsuit. If the person dies from unrelated causes, the claim usually survives.

What happens when an unborn fetus dies? Does that count as a wrongful death?

In many states, a baby must be born alive for the baby’s death to be considered a potential wrongful death case. A fetus’s death may not count. A Vancouver wrongful death attorney may be able to provide insight into what your state’s laws say about wrongful fetal death.

What is the difference between a civil and criminal case when it comes to death?

A civil case generally concerns a dispute over the duties and rights that individuals owe to organizations, and vice versa. On the other hand, criminal cases arise when an individual has charges brought against him for an act that the government considers a crime. In a criminal case, the burden of proof is higher than in civil cases, and the penalty imposes in a criminal case is a criminal sanction. Imprisonment is an example of a penalty in a criminal case. In a civil case, the penalty is typically monetary in nature.

In wrongful death cases, is it possible to recover punitive damages?

In the majority of cases, a wrongful death option does not result in the recovery of punitive damages for the plaintiff. However, there are some states that do have laws in place that occasionally permit the plaintiff to recover punitive damages.

Can you file a wrongful death action if the deceased person was never employed?

The employment of the deceased has no effect on whether you can file a wrongful death lawsuit. Such lawsuits consider the various other ways in which the deceased may have contributed to the family. These non-monetary services are known as pecuniary losses.

Is it possible to sue for the pain and suffering of a deceased person?

Yes, it is possible to recover damages for the decedent’s pain and suffering as well as that of the surviving family.

Is it possible to receive damages based on the death of a child or elderly person?

Yes, the death of a child or elderly person can result in damage awards in a wrongful death case. However, the damages awarded for both classes are typically less significant than others.

Contact a Vancouver, WA Wrongful Death Attorney

Filing a wrongful death lawsuit can be a confusing process, and there are various state guidelines to be aware of. Contact the Etengoff Pak Law Group – Vancouver Personal Injury Attorney today at (360) 693-2919 to speak with a Vancouver wrongful death attorney who may be able to answer your questions.