Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Sarasota?
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Sarasota?
Family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Sarasota under the Wrongful Death Act, FL. Stat. § 768.16. However, it is the decedent’s estate that brings the lawsuit through the personal representative. All lawsuit proceeds will return to the estate for distribution among the heirs if you win.
In this article, a Sarasota wrongful death lawyer shares information about who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Sarasota, awards they can recover, and where your family can turn for legal help and personalized advice.
Family Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Sarasota
The personal representative is the party who files the claim or lawsuit. However, they are bringing the claim on behalf of the decedent’s estates for distribution according to the terms of the will or Sarasota intestacy laws, depending upon whether they had executed a document before their passing or not.
Regardless, the following parties can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Sarasota, including:
- Surviving spouse
- Minor-aged children
- Adult children (with no surviving spouse)
- Parents of a minor-aged child
- Parents of an adult child (no other survivors)
- Adopted siblings
- Any blood relatives
Every family dynamic is unique, and one party may be better suited to represent your case. Discuss your legal options with a wrongful death attorney in Sarasota if you need assistance in making this decision.
Recoverable Awards Under Sarasota’s Wrongful Death Act
Surviving family members could recover compensation under Sarasota’s Wrongful Death Act if negligence played a role in their loved one’s death. It pays for the financial and physical losses they experienced after the injury but before passing.
These recoverable awards—or damages—under FL Stat. § 768.21 may include:
- Burial or cremation costs
- Funeral costs
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages or income
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of their future earnings
- Loss of services to the household
- Family members’ mental anguish
- Other recoverable awards
Money will never replace your loved one, nor does it ever erase your family’s pain. However, our state’s laws protect your rights to it when someone else negligently causes their death so that your family has the support it needs.
A Sarasota Wrongful Death Attorney Provides Reassurance
The Wrongful Death Act is complex and applies according to the facts of your case. Speaking with a Sarasota wrongful death attorney will help you get the answers and advice you need to take the next steps forward. This information may help you feel more in control of your situation, thereby easing your burden during this already devastating time.
David Harris Law will hold all liable parties accountable on your behalf. If they refuse to pay what your case is worth under Sarasota law, we will not hesitate to take your case to civil trial at your direction.
Call David Harris Law for Help Today
Contact a Sarasota wrongful death attorney at David Harris Law for a Free Consultation now at (941) 667-6800. You may also message our office directly here. We do not get paid until you receive a favorable outcome.