Wrongful Death Lawyer Alexandria, VA
In the event of losing a loved one, it is common to feel bewildered and distressed. Although money cannot replace the person you lost, filing a wrongful death claim can offer the justice and closure you seek. Additionally, a favorable claim outcome can provide vital financial support to cover funeral costs, lost income, and other related expenses.
If you are considering filing a wrongful death claim, you should consult with an experienced attorney who can evaluate your case and help you get the compensation you deserve. The Alexandria wrongful death lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. have extensive experience handling wrongful death claims in Alexandria and throughout Virginia.
We understand the grief and mental anguish that you are going through and will fight tirelessly to get you the justice you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
What is Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death is a death that occurs due to the negligence of another party. To bring a wrongful death claim, you must be able to prove that someone else’s carelessness or recklessness caused your loved one’s death.
Virginia’s Wrongful Death Act
The Virginia Wrongful Death Act gives Virginia residents the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Legal action is brought by a relative or beneficiary of the deceased who seeks to recover from the loss of a loved one. Generally, for wrongful death claims, the focus is not on the damages that the deceased incurred but on the loss of the relative or beneficiary.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Alexandria, VA?
Four different beneficiaries have the right to file a wrongful death suit.
- Surviving spouse and children of the deceased
- Parents, siblings, or any other relative dependent on the deceased for support
- Surviving spouse and parents
- Other relatives if none of the above exists
Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim
The jury or court may award compensation to relatives or beneficiaries of a wrongful death lawsuit according to specific types of damages:
- Sorrow, mental anguish, and relief of the wrongful death.
- Loss of income that one could reasonably expect from the wrongful death victim, including protection, care, and assistance, such as college tuition.
- Medical expenses for the treatment the deceased received due to the injury that caused the death.
- Reimbursement for funeral expenses
- In rare cases, punitive damages may be available.
The number of damages that can be recovered in a wrongful death claim will depend on the survivor’s relationship with the deceased. The court will consider many factors of the deceased when determining damages, including:
- Age
- Earnings
- Health
- Life expectancy
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- The loss of companionship or society
You may be entitled to compensation if you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence. Contact an experienced Alexandria wrongful death attorney today to discuss your case.
Expectations from a Wrongful Death Attorney in Washington DC
It’s crucial to have a reliable and communicative wrongful death attorney to work with during such cases to minimize stress and ensure a smooth legal process. A broader perspective is necessary to predict how the case will proceed.
The following are some expectations of a competent wrongful death lawyer:
- They should always be ready for a trial and have a contingency plan in case of unexpected events such as missing witness testimony
- They should display unwavering dedication and support to their client, especially during challenging times. This builds trust, particularly in litigation proceedings involving insurance companies seeking to exploit the loss of loved ones due to negligence at work
Why You Should Choose Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel For Your Case
At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., we recognize the numerous difficulties families encounter after a tragic loss, and we aim to alleviate their burden as much as possible. The legal system determines the types of claims and damages available for wrongful death accidents, making the process complex. Drawing on our collective experience of over 100 years, our wrongful death attorneys can guide you through the legal process, working to make a difference in your case.
Common Wrongful Death Cases in Alexandria, VA
Car accidents are the leading cause of wrongful death in the United States. If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver.
Other common causes of wrongful death include truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, and more. If your loved one died in an accident, you should speak to a personal injury attorney about your legal options.
Contact an Alexandria Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
If you are looking for the highest level of representation for your wrongful death case, turn to Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. Our firm has helped clients recover more than $500 million in compensation, and we have more than 100 years of combined experience. All of our partners are recognized by Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers®, and our firm includes three past presidents of the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, D.C.
We work to help surviving family members obtain fair settlement offers to compensate them for the injuries they’ve suffered, but our attorneys are extremely well-equipped to go to trial if needed. Call (202) 659-8600 or contact us online to get the proven legal representation you deserve.