Wrongful Death Attorney in Huntsville

Huntsville Wrongful Death Lawyer

When a loved one unexpectedly passes, the grief and loss are painful. If that death occurred due to negligence, Alabama law allows the pursuit of a wrongful death claim against a person or entity.

While nothing can replace the loss you have suffered, many families feel a great sense of closure when a person or party is held responsible. Pursuing a wrongful death claim is often more about seeking justice for your loved one than about any monetary compensation you may receive. A Huntsville wrongful death attorney at Conchin, Cole, Jordan & Sherrod can help you achieve justice.

 

Common Causes of Wrongful Death

Alabama law defines wrongful death as a death caused by the “wrongful act, omission, or negligence” of another. It is important to note that a wrongful death may be caused not only by a wrongful act, but also by omitting to do something that could have prevented the death. For example, if someone fails to properly train their dog and it fatally attacks a person, they could be liable in a wrongful death lawsuit.

Other common causes of wrongful deaths include:

Any act of negligence that results in the death of your loved one may be a cause for a wrongful death suit.

 

Alabama Wrongful Death Laws

Alabama has unique wrongful death laws. A notable difference in Alabama wrongful death lawsuits is who can file a suit. In Alabama, wrongful death lawsuits are filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate, not directly by family members. If the deceased left a will, the named executor may serve as the representative. If there is no will, a family member can petition the probate court to be appointed as the estate’s representative.

Another unique feature of Alabama’s wrongful death laws is that only punitive damages may be sought in a wrongful death suit. Many other states allow for compensation of funeral expenses, lost support from the deceased, and medical expenses. Alabama law focuses on punitive damages to deter wrongful conduct and to punish the person or entity that caused it. Additionally, any damages awarded are paid directly to the estate of the deceased person rather than their immediate family members.

Under Alabama law, a wrongful death claim can be pursued even if the responsible party has not been convicted or has been acquitted of criminal charges related to the death. The civil lawsuit is entirely separate from any criminal proceedings and follows its own legal process.

 

Why Should I Get a Huntsville Wrongful Death Attorney?

In most cases, it’s best to hire an attorney to pursue a wrongful death claim. An attorney can preserve key evidence in cases where no criminal charges are pursued. Also, an attorney can bring more details to light by engaging expert witnesses, obtaining depositions, and demonstrating that the death was caused by negligence. Overall, hiring a Huntsville wrongful death attorney will drastically increase your odds of winning a wrongful death lawsuit 

Why Choose a Wrongful Death Lawyer At CCJS?

Your family deserves compensation and justice for your loss. The personal injury lawyers at Conchin, Cole, Jordan & Sherrod are here every step of the way.