Wrongful Death Attorneys in Boca Raton
Helping Victims’ Families Navigate Tragedy
Not everyone survives a bad accident. Indeed, thousands of people die every year, leaving behind a grieving spouse, children, and parents. At Smith, Ball & Báez, our Boca Raton wrongful death lawyers have represented many family members in wrongful death lawsuits against the people or entities responsible for their loved one’s death.
When accident victims die, their lawsuit, fortunately, does not die with them. Instead, certain family members can step forward and bring a civil lawsuit for compensation. We will gladly analyze whether you can bring one of these claims.
To learn more about what your options may be after losing a loved one, call us at (561) 500-HELP today and schedule your free initial consultation.
When a Death Is “Wrongful”
Not all accidents are wrongful under the law. Instead, our statute identifies a wrongful death as one caused by the following:
- Negligence
- Wrongful act
- Default
- Breach of contract
Most wrongful death cases that we handle involve negligent or reckless conduct, such as driving carelessly or dangerously. Whenever someone fails to exercise due care and a death results, they might be responsible for a wrongful death.
Some wrongful deaths are also criminal. For example, if a loved one is shot to death, you might be able to sue the defendant even though it was also a crime. However, wrongful deaths apply to all kinds of conduct that is not criminal, such as mere negligence.
Bringing a Wrongful Death Suit
Surviving family members receive any compensation in a wrongful death suit. However, the estate’s personal representative is responsible for actually filing the lawsuit in court. If your loved one left behind a will, then the personal representative should be named in it. If there was no will, then the probate judge can appoint someone, usually the spouse or another family member.
Wrongful death cases are civil, not criminal, so the prosecutor is not responsible for filing. Meet with an attorney if you have questions.
Compensation for Your Losses
Our lawyers understand that no amount of money can replace a loved one. Nevertheless, the death of a loved one can have dramatic financial repercussions, and family members should be protected. Fla. Stat. § 768.21 provides that family members might qualify for the following money damages:
- The value of the services a loved one provided. For example, a spouse might have cleaned and cooked for the family, and surviving relatives can receive money to make up for this loss.
- The value of financial support. When the family breadwinner dies, our clients experience a dramatic drop in income.
- The loss of guidance, companionship, and protection provided by a loved one.
- Any medical or funeral expenses paid by a family member for the deceased.
- If a child dies, then any emotional/mental pain experienced by the parents.
- The estate can also bring suit to recover certain losses, such as:
- Medical and/or funeral expenses that the estate paid
- Lost wages or income that the deceased reasonably could have earned had he or she lived
Get the Legal Help You Need in this Difficult Time
Smith, Ball & Báez has represented many spouses, children, and parents in wrongful death cases. We can explain the steps necessary and begin building a case for compensation.
Please contact us today for a free consultation. We are often able to negotiate a favorable settlement with the person or entity to blame for your loved one’s death.
What Sets Us Apart
Committed to Fighting for Justice for the Injured-
Over $100 Million Recovered
Our results speak for themselves, and our team is dedicated to winning for you.
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AV-Rated With Martindale Hubbell
We are ranked by the most prestigious peer review rating an attorney can receive for high ethical standards and professional ability.
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Over 65 Years of Experience
With over 65 years of combined experience, our attorneys know what it takes to win for you while adhering to the highest ethical standards.
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Award-Winning Attorneys
Our attorneys are committed to excellence and are recognized for their hard work with many accolades from the legal community.
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We're Not Afraid to Litigate
We're trial lawyers at heart and don't shy away from the courtroom; we'll put our compassionate tenacity to work for you.
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A Florida Firm With Extensive Resources
No case is too big; we'll utilize our large network of experts, connections in the legal community, and deep well of resources to help you win.