Washington D.C. Wrongful Death Attorneys

Compassionate Representation for Families of Wrongful Death Victims in the Metro DC Area

Losing a loved one before their time in any scenario is unthinkable. Knowing that their death was the result of the negligence or wrongful act of another party only deepens the pain. You likely have questions about what you can do to hold the responsible parties accountable, and you should know that you do not have to navigate this unimaginably difficult journey alone. You deserve an advocate who is committed to helping you and your family secure justice, including financial compensation for your loss. A wrongful death claim is a type of civil legal action that can help you achieve these goals. 

Choosing Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC to handle your wrongful death claim ensures you are represented by a team that possesses extensive experience, skill, and dedication. Our Washington, D.C. wrongful death lawyers have a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of these cases and a proven track record of securing hundreds of millions of dollars for our clients. Furthermore, we recognize the emotional toll these circumstances bring, which is why we handle these matters with utmost sensitivity and compassion. You can expect personalized and solutions-oriented support from beginning to end. 

Discuss your wrongful death case with our team today by calling (301) 450-5742 or contacting us online. We offer free consultations, and you pay nothing unless we win.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a type of personal injury lawsuit pursued when someone is killed due to another party's negligence or intentional act. This type of claim allows the estate of the deceased person to file a lawsuit against the party who is legally liable for the death and recover damages. 

To succeed in a wrongful death lawsuit in Washington D.C., typically the following elements must be proven:

1. Death of a Person: The plaintiff must prove that a person has died.
2. Death Caused by Another's Negligence or Intent: It must be shown that the death was caused by the negligence, recklessness, or intentional act of another party. This could include actions such as a car accident caused by a negligent driver, medical malpractice, or intentional harm.
3. Surviving Family Suffering Loss: There must be surviving family members or beneficiaries who have suffered financial or emotional harm as a result of the death. This can include spouses, children, parents, or other dependents.
4. Appointment of Personal Representative: In Washington D.C., a personal representative of the deceased's estate must be appointed to bring the wrongful death claim on behalf of the surviving family members.
5. Damages: Finally, the plaintiff must demonstrate that there are measurable damages resulting from the death, such as funeral and medical expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and other related losses.

Wrongful death claims encompass various types of fatal incidents, ranging from car accidents to complex medical malpractice or product liability cases. Individuals or companies can be legally at fault for acting negligently and causing a wrongful death. For example, a car manufacturer might be held responsible for wrongful death if a defective vehicle part led to a fatal accident, or a physician could be held accountable for a death resulting from medical malpractice. Our Washington, D.C. wrongful death attorneys are prepared to handle claims involving many types of negligence and can help you understand your legal options if you are not sure whether you have a case. 

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Washington, D.C.?

In the District of Columbia, only the personal representative of the deceased’s estate has the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Close surviving family members are not able to bring wrongful death lawsuits on behalf of their deceased loved one unless they are named as their personal representative. The personal representative is generally named in a person’s will, though if no personal representative is designated or the appointed representative is unable or unwilling to serve, the court may appoint another one, often a close family member.

A wrongful death claim is filed on behalf of the deceased person's beneficiaries. These beneficiaries are typically the surviving spouse (or domestic partner) and children of the deceased. In cases where the deceased individual does not leave behind a spouse or children, the next of kin such as parents or siblings typically receive the recovered compensation. 

In Washington D.C., the personal representative has two years from the date of death to file the wrongful death lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. Missing this deadline will usually prevent the estate from recovering any compensation, which is why it is so important to act quickly and consult experienced legal professionals as soon as possible. 

Compensation for Families of Wrongful Death Victims in Washington, D.C. 

While we understand that no amount of financial compensation can ever replace your lost loved one or erase the pain you're enduring, it can undoubtedly alleviate the financial burdens often associated with such an unexpected loss. Unanticipated medical expenses, funeral costs, and loss of income can add a significant financial strain to the emotional trauma you are already grappling with. At Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC, we strive to secure the compensation you need to cover these unforeseen expenses and provide an economic safety net for the future. We aim to help you move forward with as little financial stress as possible, allowing you to focus on healing and remembering your loved one.

Our Washington, D.C. wrongful death lawyers will fight to get you and your loved ones just compensation for all losses, including:

• Funeral and Burial Expenses: Costs associated with the funeral, burial, or cremation of the deceased.
• Medical Expenses: Any medical bills incurred as a result of the injury that led to the death.
• Loss of Financial Support: Compensation for the financial contributions the deceased would have provided to their dependents if they had lived.
• Loss of Companionship: Compensation for the emotional suffering and loss of companionship experienced by the surviving family members.
• Loss of Consortium: Damages for the loss of the deceased's companionship, affection, and intimacy, usually for the surviving spouse.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress experienced by the deceased before death, if applicable under state law.

Do not wait to act. Call (301) 450-5742 or contact us online to speak to a member of our team today.