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Columbus’ Trusted Wrongful Death Lawyer

Wrongful death occurs when someone’s actions, or failure to act, cause another person to lose their life. It could be the consequence of carelessness, negligence, or deliberate injury. In certain situations, family members or an estate representative may bring a wrongful death lawsuit to obtain justice and restitution for the loss of their loved one.

At Jay Perez Law, we understand the magnitude of your loss and stand beside you during this difficult time, offering compassionate, personalized legal support to help you pursue justice and hold those responsible for it accountable. Our Columbus wrongful death lawyers are ready to guide you through every step of the legal process, offering both legal expertise and emotional support. There are several wrongful death cases involving:

  • Car Accidents: Reckless or negligent driving, including speeding, texting while driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, is a leading cause of wrongful death in Columbus, Ohio.
  • Medical Malpractice: When a death occurs due to a healthcare provider not meeting the standard of care, families may file a claim for wrongful death.
  • Workplace Injuries: Employers are responsible for maintaining safe working conditions. If an unsafe work environment causes the death of an employee, the family may have a wrongful death claim against the employer.
  • Defective Products: If a dangerous or defective product leads to fatal injuries, the manufacturer may be liable.
  • Criminal Actions: If a murder or assault occurs, the person who committed the act can be sued for wrongful death.

Ohio law specifies who can file a wrongful death claim, including:

  • The deceased’s spouse.
  • Children of the deceased.
  • Parents of the deceased.

On behalf of these beneficiaries, the claim is usually filed by a personal representative of the deceased’s estate. Navigating this process can feel overwhelming, especially during such a difficult time. Having an experienced wrongful death attorney in Columbus, Ohio by your side can provide clarity and support. At Jay Perez Law, our attorneys are dedicated to helping families handle these delicate matters with care, understanding, and customized expertise, ensuring the interests of all eligible family members are protected.

Wrongful Death Sentencing and Compensation Guidelines

When a wrongful death occurs, the consequences go far beyond just the loss of life. While no amount of money can replace a loved one, financial compensation can help ease the burden and provide stability. At Jay Perez Law, our experienced wrongful death attorneys in Columbus, Ohio, are dedicated to helping families understand their legal options. These cases are governed by specific laws designed to compensate surviving family members for their loss, but the legal process and compensation amounts can vary based on the unique circumstances of each case.

Ohio law offers compensation for wrongful death cases in several categories:

  • Economic Damages: These include funeral expenses, hospital expenditures, lost wages, and other immediate financial losses associated with the deceased’s passing.
  • Non-Economic Damages: These damages compensate for the emotional and psychological toll on the family, such as pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and loss of consortium. These damages recognize the significant emotional loss endured by surviving family members, even though they lack a monetary value.
  • Punitive Damages: To penalize the guilty party and discourage future misbehavior, punitive damages may be granted in circumstances involving unacceptable misconduct. Punitive damages are not always appropriate in wrongful death situations, but our experienced Columbus wrongful death lawyers will assess your case to determine its eligibility.

Deadline for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim

In Ohio, the deadline for filing a wrongful death claim is two years from the date of the deceased’s passing. While most cases fall within this time range, certain exceptions may exist depending on the specific circumstances, such as cases involving minors or unique legal factors. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to pursue compensation. Acting quickly is crucial to preserving evidence and building a strong case. If you’re in need of a trusted Columbus-based wrongful death lawyer, reach out to Jay Perez Law today to ensure your case is filed on time.

Wrongful Death and Criminal Cases

Wrongful death claims can sometimes overlap with criminal cases involving acts like homicide, including murder or manslaughter. If the death was caused by a criminal act, the defendant may face both criminal charges and a civil wrongful death claim.

It’s important to note that the outcome of the criminal case does not directly determine the success of a wrongful death claim. However, a criminal conviction can influence the amount of punitive damages awarded in the civil case.

Our team of Columbus wrongful death attorneys has the expertise to navigate the complexities of these overlapping legal processes, ensuring your case is handled with care.

Columbus, Ohio’s Dedicated Wrongful Death Attorneys

After losing a loved one, navigating the legal system can be extremely difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Jay Perez Law, we have decades of experience handling wrongful death cases in Columbus, Ohio, and we’re committed to helping families like yours secure justice and closure. Our trusted Columbus wrongful death lawyers are available to help you at every stage, making sure that your voice is heard and your family’s rights are upheld.

Contact us and let us handle the complexities of the law so you can focus on healing and honoring your loved one’s memory.