Losing a loved one is a challenging experience and dealing with the aftermath of a wrongful death can be overwhelming. If you believe your loved one death was caused by someone else negligence or intentional act you may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. Several important topics should be discussed when meeting with a Personal injury attorney in Atlanta for an initial consultation.
- The details of the death
During the initial consultation you must provide your lawyer with as many details about the death as possible. This may include information about the circumstances surrounding the death the events leading up to the death and any witnesses or evidence that may be relevant to the case. Be prepared to provide your lawyer with any documentation you have related to the death such as medical records police reports and witness statements.
- The potential defendants
Your lawyer must know who may be responsible for your loved one death. This may include individuals companies or government entities contributing to the death through negligence or intentional actions. Your lawyer will need to know who to pursue legal action against in order to obtain compensation for your loss.
- Your relationship with the deceased
Your relationship with the deceased is an important factor in a wrongful death case. Your lawyer must know about your relationship with the deceased and how the loss has affected you and your family. This information will determine the number of damages you may be entitled to including compensation for lost income medical expenses funeral costs and pain and suffering.
- The statute of limitations
Most states have a statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit. This means there is a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit after the death has occurred. It is essential to discuss the statute of limitations with your lawyer to ensure that you do not miss any deadlines for filing a lawsuit.
- The potential damages
Your lawyer will need to know about the damages you have suffered due to your loved one death. This may include financial losses such as lost income and medical expenses as well as emotional damages such as pain and suffering and loss of companionship. Your lawyer will use this information to determine the potential damages you may be entitled to and to build a case for compensation.
- The legal process
Your lawyer will explain the legal process of pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit. This may include filing a complaint conducting discovery negotiating a settlement or going to trial. Your lawyer will explain each step in the process and what you can expect throughout the case.
- The lawyer’s experience
It is essential to discuss your lawyer experience with wrongful death cases. Ask about their success rate and their experience handling cases similar to yours. You want to ensure you are working with an experienced lawyer who can provide the guidance and representation you need during this difficult time.