Seattle Wrongful Death Law

Wrongful death is one of the most devastating events to befall a family. At Scott & Scott, PLLC, we offer compassionate counsel to our clients and a plan of action so you can focus on healing from your loss.

Wrongful Death Claims: Seeking Justice for Those Left Behind

Losing a loved one is an incredibly painful experience, and when it happens due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions, the emotional toll can be even more profound. At Scott & Scott, PLLC, we understand the devastation that wrongful death brings to families, and our compassionate legal team is here to guide you through the process of seeking justice for your loved one.

Understanding Wrongful Death

Wrongful death occurs when an individual’s life is taken due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions of another party. This can happen in various contexts, including car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace incidents, and other preventable circumstances. In these tragic situations, surviving family members have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim to hold responsible parties accountable.

Types of Wrongful Death Cases

Our legal team has experience handling a wide range of wrongful death cases, including but not limited to:

  • Automobile Accidents: Seeking justice for victims of fatal car crashes caused by negligent drivers.
  • Workplace Incidents: Advocating for families when a loved one loses their life in a construction accident, industrial incident, or other work-related mishap.
  • Product Liability: Pursuing claims against manufacturers for defective products that result in fatal injuries.
  • Criminal Acts: Addressing cases where intentional harm or criminal actions lead to wrongful death.

Compensation for Surviving Family Members

While no amount of compensation can replace the loss of a loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide financial support for surviving family members. Compensation may cover:

  • Funeral and Burial Expenses: Assisting with the costs associated with laying a loved one to rest.
  • Lost Income and Benefits: Compensating for the financial contributions the deceased would have provided to the family.
  • Loss of Companionship: Acknowledging the emotional toll on family members who have lost a spouse, parent, or child.

Legal Advocacy with Compassion

Navigating a wrongful death claim is emotionally challenging, and our legal team is committed to providing compassionate support throughout the process. We handle the legal complexities, allowing you and your family the space to grieve and heal.

Statute of Limitations

It’s essential to act promptly, as there are time limits for filing wrongful death claims. Contact Scott & Scott, PLLC, today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore the legal options available to seek justice for your loved one.

In your time of grief, let us be your advocates, fighting tirelessly for the justice your family deserves.

Rachel and Brian Scott understand the devastation inflicted on the family of the deceased and while no amount can ever replace such a loss, we will fight ceaselessly to help you win the compensation you deserve to cover medical bills, lost wages, funeral expenses, and the emotional cost of losing a companion.

Let us worry about the legal logistics while you focus on recovery and moving on with your life. The Time is Now to Call Us.

More Practice Areas

Let us handle the legal logistics so you can focus on your recovery.

Now is the time to speak with a lawyer.

With personal injury cases, prompt action can make all the difference in getting you the most compensation for your injuries.

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Wrongful Death FAQ's

1. What qualifies as a wrongful death claim in Washington State?

A wrongful death claim arises when someone dies due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions of another person or entity. Common causes include car accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, and workplace incidents. Under Washington law, certain family members have the right to pursue compensation for their loss.

2. Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Washington?

Washington law allows the personal representative of the deceased’s estate to file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of surviving family members. Typically, this includes a spouse, registered domestic partner, children, or, if none, parents or siblings of the deceased.

3. What types of compensation are available in a wrongful death case?

Surviving family members may be eligible to recover damages for:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Medical bills related to the final injury or illness
  • Lost income and future financial support
  • Loss of companionship and emotional suffering
  • Pain and suffering of the deceased (in survival actions)

4. What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Washington?

In Washington State, you generally have three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing this deadline could permanently bar your right to recover compensation, so it’s important to consult with a Seattle wrongful death attorney as soon as possible.

5. How is wrongful death different from a criminal case involving a fatality?

A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit seeking monetary damages, while a criminal case involves charges brought by the state to punish wrongful conduct. Even if no criminal charges are filed, or if the defendant is acquitted, surviving family members can still pursue a civil wrongful death claim.

6. Can a wrongful death lawsuit be filed for a workplace fatality?

Yes, but workplace fatalities are complex. While workers’ compensation may limit certain legal actions against employers, third-party claims can often be pursued if another party, like a contractor, property owner, or manufacturer, was responsible for the death. A Seattle wrongful death lawyer can evaluate all possible options.

7. How long does a wrongful death case take in Washington?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, the parties involved, and whether a settlement is reached or trial is necessary. Some cases resolve in months; others may take over a year. Scott & Scott will guide you every step of the way while handling the legal burdens for your family.

8. Why should I hire a wrongful death attorney in Seattle?

Wrongful death cases are emotionally difficult and legally complex. An experienced attorney will help you gather evidence, navigate Washington’s wrongful death laws, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue full compensation, while allowing you to focus on healing and honoring your loved one.

9. What if my loved one had no income? Can we still file a wrongful death claim?

Yes. Compensation isn’t just about lost income. Washington allows for emotional damages like loss of companionship and support, especially in cases involving stay-at-home parents or children.

10. How long will this process take?

It depends on your case type and whether we reach a settlement or go to trial. We aim for timely resolution and will keep you updated at every step so you’re never left in the dark.

11. Do I have to talk to the insurance company?

No. Once you hire us, we deal with the insurance companies on your behalf — so you don’t have to worry about saying the wrong thing or being pressured into a lowball offer.

12. What if I already started the claim process myself?

That’s okay — many clients come to us after trying to handle things alone. We can step in at any point to make sure your rights are protected and deadlines aren’t missed.

Questions You Might Be Afraid to Ask

Am I overreacting?

No. You’re reacting like a human being in a hard situation. Our job is to take the weight off your shoulders.

What if people think I’m just looking for money?

Most of our clients feel this way at first. What you’re doing is protecting yourself and your future.

I don’t want to be one of those people who sues.

You’re not. You’re someone who was hurt and deserves to be treated with dignity.