Wrongful Death FAQs
What is a wrongful death case?
A wrongful death lawsuit claims that an individual’s death was caused by the willful or negligent act of another person or persons, and that the victim’s survivors are entitled to damages as a result of the misconduct.
When should a wrongful death lawsuit be filed?
The statute of limitations for wrongful death in Connecticut is two years from the date of death and no more than five years from the date of the act complained of (Conn. Gen. Stat. §52-555). In Rhode Island the statute of limitations for wrongful death is three years from the "time that the wrongful act, neglect or default is discovered or, in the exercise of reasonable diligence, should have been discovered" (RI Gen. Laws §10-7-2).
Who can file a wrongful death case?
Someone close to the decedent, usually an immediate family member, must apply to the probate court to be appointed legal representative of the decedent. My office assists with this process.
What are the damages in a wrongful death case?
Connecticut law allows for compensation for the loss of life itself, or the loss of the good things the decedent will never get to experience. While such damages may be difficult to evaluate, they constitute the lion’s share of all damages in death cases. Other elements of damages include the loss of future income, expenses incurred by the victim’s death such as medical bills and funeral expenses, lost benefits such as pension and retirement plans, the loss of companionship, and mental pain and suffering.
Who is responsible for the costs of pursuing a wrongful death case?
Wrongful death cases are handled on a contingency basis. This means that you are not expected to pay me anything unless a verdict or settlement is obtained on your behalf.
A wrongful death lawsuit claims that an individual’s death was caused by the willful or negligent act of another person or persons, and that the victim’s survivors are entitled to damages as a result of the misconduct.
When should a wrongful death lawsuit be filed?
The statute of limitations for wrongful death in Connecticut is two years from the date of death and no more than five years from the date of the act complained of (Conn. Gen. Stat. §52-555). In Rhode Island the statute of limitations for wrongful death is three years from the "time that the wrongful act, neglect or default is discovered or, in the exercise of reasonable diligence, should have been discovered" (RI Gen. Laws §10-7-2).
Who can file a wrongful death case?
Someone close to the decedent, usually an immediate family member, must apply to the probate court to be appointed legal representative of the decedent. My office assists with this process.
What are the damages in a wrongful death case?
Connecticut law allows for compensation for the loss of life itself, or the loss of the good things the decedent will never get to experience. While such damages may be difficult to evaluate, they constitute the lion’s share of all damages in death cases. Other elements of damages include the loss of future income, expenses incurred by the victim’s death such as medical bills and funeral expenses, lost benefits such as pension and retirement plans, the loss of companionship, and mental pain and suffering.
Who is responsible for the costs of pursuing a wrongful death case?
Wrongful death cases are handled on a contingency basis. This means that you are not expected to pay me anything unless a verdict or settlement is obtained on your behalf.
To schedule a Free Consultation contact me by phone, email or complete the online form.
CT: 860-886-2800
RI: 401-596-0808
bradley@michaelbradleyatty.com
I am available for evening, weekend and in home appointments
CT: 860-886-2800
RI: 401-596-0808
bradley@michaelbradleyatty.com
I am available for evening, weekend and in home appointments
