Wrongful Death Lawyer Youngstown, OH

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims In Ohio

Our Youngstown, OH wrongful death lawyer knows that if you have lost a loved one as a result of someone else’s negligence, this pain can be incredibly profound. Experiencing a wrongful death is an incredibly difficult thing to go through because you know that their death was a result of someone else’s negligence. Wrongful death claims in Ohio are designed so that they can provide justice for the deceased’s family members. Our team at Joseph Law Group, LLC understands that this is an emotionally taxing situation that no one should ever have to go through. Attorney Edward Manuel does not just guide his clients through difficult legal situations, but he has devoted his career to helping victims. He has spent over a decade with the team at Joseph Law Group and is prepared to help you. He has settled hundreds of cases throughout his career and has the experience and knowledge to help you with your case. 

How To Establish Grounds For A Wrongful Death Claim

One of the first steps in a wrongful death claim involves showing that the death was caused by another party who was acting recklessly or negligently. This could be many different scenarios, including a car accident, a pedestrian accident, medical malpractice, or even a workplace accident. When you work with our team, you know you are working with lawyers who know how to conduct a thorough investigation to support your claim. Your lawyer may gather evidence such as: 

• Medical records 

• Police reports

• Witness statements

Knowing If You Are Eligible To File A Claim

In the state of Ohio, only certain family members are eligible to file a wrongful death claim. This might be a parent, sibling, children, or spouse of the deceased. However, if there are no immediate family members, the personal representative of the estate may file a claim. Especially if you don’t fit into the “immediate family member” category, it is crucial that you speak with your lawyer to learn more about whether you are an eligible claimant and what your next steps are. 

Calculating The Damages

After you have determined who is eligible to file, the next step is to determine the appropriate amount of compensation. This can be difficult in a wrongful death case, especially as you begin looking at both the economic and non-economic damages. You may file for economic damages, such as funeral and burial costs or medical expenses that happened prior to death as a result of the accident. You can also file for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering that the deceased went through before they died. 

Getting The Help You Need Today

After a wrongful death in the family, you may be unsure of what your next steps are. It is true that nothing can bring your loved one back, but you may be wondering how to cope or begin moving on from this. This is where the team at Joseph Law Group, LLC comes in. We work closely with various professionals to ensure that your loss is accurately calculated and that you can begin moving forward. When you are ready, speak with our trusted wrongful death lawyer in Youngstown. 

Understanding Wrongful Death Vs. Accidental Death

Losing a loved one is always devastating, but when that loss is due to someone else’s actions or negligence, the pain can be compounded by a sense of injustice. In legal terms, distinguishing between wrongful death and accidental death is crucial for families seeking justice and compensation.

If you’ve lost someone you love in an avoidable accident, you may have a wrongful death claim. A Youngstown, OH, wrongful death lawyer from our firm can evaluate your situation and provide personalized legal advice in a free consultation. Call Joseph Law Group, LLC if you believe you have a wrongful death claim.

What Is An Accidental Death, Legally Speaking?

Accidental death refers to a situation where a person dies as a result of unforeseen circumstances or pure chance. These deaths occur without anyone being legally at fault or responsible. Common examples include car accidents, falls, or mishaps at home or work. In cases of accidental death, there is typically no legal recourse beyond insurance claims or other non-legal compensatory mechanisms.

What Is A Wrongful Death?

Conversely, wrongful death occurs when an individual dies due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another party. This could involve situations such as medical malpractice, vehicle accidents caused by drunk or distracted drivers, defective products, or unsafe working conditions. The key distinction in wrongful death cases is the presence of negligence or misconduct that directly led to the fatal incident.

Legal Implications

From a legal standpoint, the implications of accidental versus wrongful death are profound. Accidental death cases may involve insurance claims or compensation for financial losses, but they typically do not result in legal action against a responsible party. Wrongful death, however, allows surviving family members to seek justice through civil litigation. This can include claims for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and the emotional suffering endured by the survivors.

Role Of A Youngstown Wrongful Death Lawyer

A wrongful death lawyer plays a crucial role in helping families navigate the complexities of such cases. They are experienced in gathering evidence, determining liability, and negotiating with insurance companies or opposing legal teams. Their primary goal is to secure fair compensation for the survivors and to hold accountable those responsible for the tragic loss.

Seeking Justice And Closure

Beyond financial compensation, pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide a sense of closure and accountability. It sends a message that negligent behavior will not go unpunished and can prevent similar tragedies from befalling others in the future. Wrongful death lawsuits serve as a powerful tool in promoting safety standards and holding individuals and corporations accountable for their actions.

Contact Us Today For A Free Consultation

While accidental deaths are unfortunate events resulting from chance or unforeseen circumstances, wrongful deaths stem from the actionable negligence or misconduct of others. Understanding this distinction is vital for families coping with the loss of a loved one and seeking justice. A skilled Youngstown wrongful death lawyer can provide invaluable support during this difficult time, guiding families through legal proceedings and advocating tirelessly on their behalf to achieve the justice and closure they deserve.

We’re by your side, from start to finish, fighting for your family and everything you’ve lost. Call Joseph Law Group, LLC today for a free consultation.

Common Wrongful Death Legal Challenges

Our Youngstown, OH wrongful death lawyer fully understands the overwhelming emotional toll that losing a loved one has. We understand that our clients are more than just case numbers, they are real people experiencing one of the most painful situations in life. On top of that, navigating the legal process can present significant challenges. Here, we outline some common legal hurdles families face in wrongful death cases and how a lawyer can provide crucial support.

Establishing Liability

One of the most significant challenges in a wrongful death case is establishing liability. This involves proving that the death resulted from someone else’s negligence or misconduct. Without clear evidence, this can be a complex and contentious issue. A lawyer can help gather the necessary evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony, to build a strong case for liability.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts, which can be particularly challenging in wrongful death cases. They may offer settlements that are far below what the family deserves. Having a lawyer on your side means you have someone who understands the tactics used by insurance companies and can negotiate on your behalf. This ensures that the compensation offered reflects the true value of your loss.

Navigating The Statute Of Limitations

Each state has a statute of limitations, which is the timeframe within which a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the right to pursue a claim. A Youngstown wrongful death lawyer will be familiar with these time constraints and will help ensure that all necessary legal actions are taken within the appropriate timeframe. This protects your family’s right to seek justice and compensation.

Proving Damages

In wrongful death cases, calculating and proving damages can be complicated. This includes not only direct costs like medical bills and funeral expenses but also non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and loss of future income. A lawyer can work with financial and economic experts to accurately quantify these damages, helping to secure a fair settlement or judgment for your family.

Handling Legal Procedures And Court Appearances

The legal process can be daunting, especially when you are grieving. From filing paperwork to appearing in court, these procedures can be overwhelming. A lawyer can handle all these aspects of your case, providing the necessary representation in court and ensuring that every legal requirement is met. This allows your family to focus on healing while knowing that the legal side is being managed professionally.

Managing Family Dynamics And Disagreements

Wrongful death cases can sometimes lead to disagreements within the family, particularly regarding the division of any settlement or award. A lawyer can provide objective guidance and help mediate these discussions, ensuring that the process remains as smooth and conflict-free as possible. This can help preserve family relationships during an already challenging time.

Pursuing Justice And Closure

Finally, one of the most important roles a lawyer plays is helping families pursue justice and find closure. While no amount of compensation can bring back a loved one, holding the responsible parties accountable can provide a sense of justice. A lawyer’s support can help your family navigate this difficult journey and achieve a resolution that honors your loved one’s memory.

At Joseph Law Group, LLC, we understand the challenges families face in wrongful death cases. Over the last 20 years, Joseph Law Group has earned the trust of thousands of victims across Ohio by providing five-star legal representation that aids in restoring their quality of life, security, and health to the greatest degree possible. If you are dealing with the loss of a loved one and need legal support, we are here to help. As a dedicated Youngstown wrongful death lawyer, we are committed to providing the guidance and representation you need to secure the compensation and justice your family deserves. Contact us today to discuss your case and find out how we can assist you during this difficult time.

Youngstown Wrongful Death Infographic

Youngstown Wrongful Death FAQs

Who Can Sue For Wrongful Death In Ohio?

In Ohio, the right to sue for wrongful death is generally reserved for the surviving spouse, children, or parents of the deceased. If none of these family members are available, the estate’s administrator or executor can file the lawsuit on behalf of the deceased’s estate. The claim must be filed within two years of the death. The purpose is to seek compensation for damages such as funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship. Consulting with a wrongful death attorney can help ensure that the appropriate parties are involved and that the claim is filed correctly.

Is Wrongful Death The Same As Negligence?

No, wrongful death and negligence are not the same, though they are related. Wrongful death is a legal claim brought when someone dies due to another party’s negligent, reckless, or intentional conduct. Negligence refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care, leading to harm or injury. To prove a wrongful death claim, you must demonstrate that negligence or other wrongful actions caused the death. Essentially, negligence is often the basis for a wrongful death claim, but wrongful death encompasses broader legal issues, including proving damages and the specific impact on surviving family members.

Can A Wrongful Death Lawsuit Be Filed If The Death Was Due To An Accident?

Yes, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed if the death was due to an accident, provided that the accident was caused by another party’s negligence or wrongful conduct. Common examples include accidents resulting from reckless driving, unsafe property conditions, or medical malpractice. The key is to prove that the responsible party’s actions or inactions directly led to the fatal accident. The lawsuit seeks compensation for damages such as funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering. Consulting with a wrongful death attorney can help determine the viability of the claim and guide you through the legal process.

What If The Deceased Was Partially At Fault For Their Own Death?

If the deceased was partially at fault for their own death, it does not necessarily bar a wrongful death lawsuit, but it can impact the claim. In many jurisdictions, including Ohio, the compensation may be reduced proportionally based on the deceased’s degree of fault. For instance, if the deceased was found 30% at fault, the recovery could be reduced by that percentage. This is due to comparative negligence laws, which allocate fault and adjust damages accordingly. Consulting with a wrongful death attorney can help navigate these complexities and ensure that any potential reduction in compensation is appropriately addressed in your claim.

Can A Wrongful Death Lawsuit Be Filed In Youngstown If There Is A Criminal Case Pending? 

Yes, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed in Youngstown even if there is a criminal case pending. The civil wrongful death case and the criminal case are separate legal processes with different standards of proof. A wrongful death lawsuit seeks compensation for damages suffered by the deceased’s family, while a criminal case aims to hold the defendant accountable under criminal law. The outcome of one case does not directly impact the other, though evidence from the criminal case may be relevant in the civil suit. Consulting with a wrongful death attorney can help you understand how to proceed with both legal actions.