Losing a loved one without warning changes every aspect of your life. Words cannot describe the overwhelming grief, stress, and financial worries that follow a loved one’s tragic passing. When your loss was caused by someone else’s negligence or misconduct, you have the legal right to hold them accountable and seek fair compensation for your losses.
If you need a wrongful death lawyer in Jefferson to protect your rights, the team at LawtonCates, S.C., can help. We have decades of experience providing clients with the compassionate support and aggressive advocacy they need during some of the most difficult times of their lives. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more.
What Is a Wrongful Death Under Wisconsin Law?
Wisconsin law defines a wrongful death as a death caused by a wrongful or negligent act that would have allowed the victim to file a personal injury claim if they had survived. A wrongful death claim essentially allows surviving family members to pursue that personal injury claim on their loved one’s behalf. Some examples of incidents that may constitute a valid wrongful death claim in Jefferson include:
- A fatal car accident on U.S. Highway 18 caused by a drunk driver
- A construction accident caused by poorly maintained equipment
- A motorcycle crash caused by an inattentive driver
- The death of a child by a dog attack
When negligence or intentional misconduct causes a death, Wisconsin law allows families to seek compensation for their losses. Our wrongful death law firm in Jefferson can investigate your case, identify all potentially liable parties, and pursue maximum compensation from each of them.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Jefferson?
Wisconsin law strictly controls who may file a wrongful death claim. These rules are intended to prevent disputes and make sure compensation reaches the closest family members. The following individuals may file a claim, depending on the circumstances:
- The surviving spouse or registered domestic partner
- The deceased person’s children
- The deceased person’s parents, if no spouse or children exist
- The personal representative of the estate
Compensation for wrongful death varies depending on the relationship with the deceased. For example, minor children might recover compensation for loss of companionship, while the estate may recover for medical expenses before death.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle
A wrongful death claim in Jefferson can arise in many different ways. Some of the most common causes our attorneys see include:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents – Car, truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian accidents caused by drunk or distracted driving remain a very common cause of wrongful death in Jefferson.
- Workplace Fatalities – Wrongful deaths in the workplace can occur in various ways, including falls from heights, electrocutions, machinery failures, and crush accidents.
- Defective Products – Manufacturers and distributors of defective products can be held responsible when their products cause wrongful death.
What Compensation Can Families Recover?
No amount of money can replace a loved one’s life or undo the pain that was caused. Compensation for wrongful death is not intended to replace anyone; it’s intended to provide much-deserved financial stability and give surviving loved ones some small sense of justice for their tragic loss. Compensation for a wrongful death claim in Jefferson can include:
- Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and society
- Loss of guidance and care
Your wrongful death lawyer in Jefferson will work alongside experts to assess the full impact of your loss to calculate maximum compensation. Then, we fight to hold the at-fault party accountable and recover the full amount you’re owed.
Wisconsin Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations
Wrongful death claims in Wisconsin come with strict filing deadlines under state law. Missing this deadline can bar you from recovering compensation, regardless of how strong your case may be.
Broadly speaking, you have three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, the deadline for cases arising from motor vehicle accidents is just two years from the date of death. Claims against government entities also carry shorter deadlines and additional notice requirements.
The longer you wait to pursue your claim, the harder it is for your attorney to build a compelling case for the compensation you deserve. If you want to avoid missed deadlines and build a strong case, contact a wrongful death lawyer in Jefferson as soon as possible.
How a Jefferson Wrongful Death Lawyer Helps
Wrongful death cases involve not only complicated legal considerations, but intense emotions and insurance companies that want to deny you the justice you deserve. Working with a skilled attorney can relieve a ton of pressure and provide you with a distinct strategic advantage. Your attorney can help by:
- Reviewing your case for free
- Investigating and identifying all liable parties
- Preserving and obtaining evidence
- Calculating for maximum compensation
- Dealing with insurers
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Representing you in court, if necessary
At LawtonCates, S.C., our attorneys work on a contingency basis. That means you pay nothing up front for our legal services, and you owe no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.
As one of our client reviews says:
I am extremely grateful to have had Lawton Cates represent me. From the start, they were not only professional but also compassionate and truly invested in my case. They took the time to explain every detail in a way that made me feel confident and at ease. Their expertise and attention to detail were evident in every aspect of the process, and they always kept me informed and updated. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, I was able to achieve a positive outcome. I highly recommend Attorney Polich to anyone seeking skilled, trustworthy legal representation!
- Jeff W.
Steps to Start Your Wrongful Death Claim
Taking your first steps towards pursuing a wrongful death claim can feel overwhelming. Our team simplifies the process and guides families through each stage. Here’s how to get started:
- Schedule a free consultation with us.
- Share your story and any evidence you may have.
- Review your legal options and potential strategies with us.
- Authorize us to file your claim and pursue compensation on your behalf.
After your initial, no-obligation consultation, our team will handle the vast majority of your case for you. You focus on taking care of yourself and your loved ones while we focus on seeking the accountability and compensation you deserve.
Contact a Jefferson Wrongful Death Lawyer at LawtonCates
If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligent behavior or intentional act, you don’t have to face the fallout alone. The team at LawtonCates, S.C., brings extensive experience, a strong track record, and an unwavering dedication to providing compassionate client services to every case. Contact us today for your free consultation.