Wrongful Death in Florida
Helping Families Seek Justice After Tragedy
Lost a Loved One Due to Negligence?
We Stand With Florida Families in Their Hardest Moments
Losing a loved one in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence is devastating. Along with the emotional pain, families are often left facing financial challenges like medical bills, funeral costs, and lost household income. While no amount of money can replace a life, Florida law allows families to hold negligent individuals and companies accountable through a wrongful death claim. At our firm, we help grieving families navigate this complex legal process with care and determination, working to secure justice and financial security for those left behind.
Types of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle
Fighting for Justice in Every Situation
We represent families in a wide variety of wrongful death cases across Florida, including:
Auto and Truck Accidents
Fatal crashes involving cars, commercial trucks, or rideshare vehicles caused by negligent or reckless drivers.
Motorcycle and Pedestrian Fatalities
Tragic losses resulting from careless drivers failing to yield or pay attention.
Premises Liability Cases
Deaths caused by unsafe property conditions, such as falls or inadequate security leading to violent crimes.
Defective Products
Fatal injuries caused by unsafe consumer products, machinery, or medical devices.
Workplace Accidents
Fatal incidents on construction sites or other hazardous work environments where third parties may be liable.
Criminal Acts
Homicides or violent crimes where property owners failed to provide adequate security measures.
Wrongful Death Claims in Florida
What Families Should Know About the Process
In Florida, wrongful death claims are governed by a specific statute that outlines who can file, what damages may be recovered, and the time limits for bringing a case. Typically, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate files the lawsuit on behalf of surviving family members. These cases can involve complex issues like calculating future lost earnings and proving liability against powerful defendants. Working with an experienced attorney is essential to navigating these challenges and protecting your family’s rights.
Two-Year Filing Deadline:
Florida law requires wrongful death claims to be filed within two years of the date of death.
Eligible Family Members:
Spouses, children, parents, and other dependents may be entitled to recover damages.
Recoverable Damages:
Includes medical bills, funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and loss of financial support..
Common Wrongful Death Questions
Helping Families Understand Their Legal Options
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Florida?
Under Florida law, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate files the claim on behalf of surviving family members. This can include spouses, children, parents, and in some cases, other relatives or dependents. The representative is usually named in the deceased’s will or appointed by the court if no will exists.
What types of damages can be recovered in a wrongful death case?
Compensation in a wrongful death case can include medical and funeral expenses, loss of the deceased’s income and benefits, and non-economic damages like loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support. In cases involving egregious negligence, punitive damages may also be available. Our team works to ensure every potential loss is considered and pursued.
How is fault determined in a wrongful death lawsuit?
Proving fault requires showing that the defendant’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions directly caused your loved one’s death. This often involves gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, expert testimony, and surveillance footage. We handle these investigations with care and persistence, building a strong case while you focus on your family.
What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Florida?
Florida’s statute of limitations requires most wrongful death lawsuits to be filed within two years of the date of death. However, certain circumstances—such as cases involving government entities—may have different rules. It’s critical to consult an attorney early to avoid losing your right to recover compensation.
Can we pursue a claim if criminal charges are pending or weren’t filed?
Yes. A wrongful death lawsuit is a separate civil action that can proceed even if there are no criminal charges or if a criminal case results in acquittal. The standard of proof in a civil case is lower than in criminal court, which means you may still be able to hold the responsible party financially accountable.