Wrongful Death

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Compassionate guidance in wrongful death claims

The devastating loss of a loved one can shatter the foundation of our lives, leaving us with a sense of profound grief, uncertainty, and heartbreak.

At Steinfeld Law Firm, we understand the devastating effect the sudden and unexpected death of a loved one can have on you and your family. We want you to know that you are not alone. As "Champions for Justice," we are here to champion your cause for justice and provide you with the support and guidance you need during this difficult time. One of the challenges that follows a fatal accident includes the decision to pursue a wrongful death claim.

Before you make any important decisions or talk to insurance companies, we encourage you to reach out to us. We are committed to ensuring that you fully understand your legal options, allowing you to make informed choices that align with your best interests.

Why consider a wrongful death lawsuit?

You and your family deserve all the support and help your can get during this difficult time. While nothing can ever replace your loved one, taking legal action can help secure your future as you begin to rebuild your life after such a devastating loss.

Wrongful death settlements are specifically designed to alleviate some of the financial burdens that accompany the loss of a loved one. In addition to the immense emotional pain, your family may also face tangible losses. If your loved one's income was crucial for covering rent, mortgage, or providing for your family, the absence of that support can compound your difficulties.

Through a wrongful death claim, you may be able to seek damages, including:

  • Final medical expenses of the deceased.
  • Funeral and burial expenses.
  • Lost wages and benefits—both present and future.
  • Pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members.
  • Loss of love, comfort, affection and companionship.

What constitutes a wrongful death case?

To succeed in a wrongful death case, it is essential to establish four key elements:

  1. Duty of Care: The victim’s family must show that defendant owed a "duty of care" to the deceased. Every individual has a legal obligation to act as a reasonable person under similar circumstances.
  2. Breach of Duty: The defendant failed to act as a reasonable person.
  3. Causation: The failure to act as a reasonable person caused decedent’s death.
  4. Damages: The surviving family members suffered damages due to defendant’s failure to act as a reasonable person.

Proving these four elements is crucial because they constitute negligence and grants surviving family members the right to pursue damages. It's worth noting that there is an exception for fatal workplace accidents, which typically fall under workers' compensation claims.

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Patrick Steinfeld

A compassionate team by your side

Considering legal action in the midst of your loss requires great courage. At Champions for Justice, we genuinely care about each person who seeks our help. Your struggles become our struggles, and we are here to offer the unwavering support you need during this difficult time. If you are unsure about pursuing legal action, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. One of our compassionate lawyers will be available to discuss your case in detail, providing you with the guidance and information you need to make the right decisions for your future.

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The 5 Stages of Grief

Grief Support Resources

There are many organizations that provide grief support services to surviving family members and friends around the country. GriefShare.org and Legacy.com provide group support and valuable information on grief support. Here is Legacy’s video on the 5-Stages of Grief.

Below are some other resources that will help you through your feelings of grief:

  • The Grief Recovery Method is offering one-on-one online sessions with specialists who can help you through your grief from home.
  • Grief expert David Kessler has created a pop-up Facebook support group for anyone experiencing grief during COVID-19.
  • Better Help offers grief counseling that you can do online or via phone or chat.
  • The National Alliance for Grieving Children has resources designed to help children who are grieving at this unusual time.
  • Talk to your church, health insurer or hospital about grief support online or by phone. If you’re not sure where to start, browse the forums connected to any of the above links and see if anyone is experiencing the same feeling as you.

The first thing I tell my client’s, is to get some form of grief counseling. Yes... it’s that important. Everyone should undergo grief counseling. Most survivors benefit from grief support. Some don’t. For others... it cathartic.

If you have any questions about Grief Support, please give me a call and I’ll help you find a group.