Alpharetta Wrongful Death Attorneys
When You Have Lost a Loved One, We Are Here for You
The sudden and unexpected loss of a loved one is a tragedy that nothing can really prepare you for. When someone close to you dies unexpectedly as the result of an accident – such as a car accident – the emotional distress and grief can feel overwhelming. Many people struggle to process their emotions and make sense of their death. This process can be especially difficult when the death might have been prevented if someone else had not acted negligently.
At Morrison and Hughes Law, we have over 75 years of combined legal experience. Our depth of knowledge and unwavering commitment to clients make us the compassionate wrongful death lawyers you can trust during this difficult time. We can help the surviving family members recover compensation for their losses and hold negligent parties accountable.
Our Wrongful Death team serves clients in Alpharetta and throughout the Gwinnett County area. Call (470) 260-9417 or contacting us online today.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Wrongful Death?
In Georgia, a wrongful death occurs when a person loses their life due to another party's negligent, reckless, or intentional actions. Those who may be held liable in wrongful death cases include:
Individuals: If a person’s reckless behavior directly caused the fatal accident, they can be held responsible. For instance, a driver who operates a vehicle under the influence can be liable if their actions result in a fatal accident.
Businesses and Employers: Companies may be liable for wrongful deaths if negligence or unsafe practices led to the fatality. Examples include unsafe work environments, poorly maintained properties, or lack of adequate training.
Manufacturers: If a defective product directly causes a death, the company that designed, manufactured, or sold the product could be held liable in a wrongful death claim.
Determining liability can be complex, but the wrongful death attorneys at Morrison & Hughes Law will conduct thorough investigations to identify all parties who should be held accountable, ensuring that grieving families receive the justice they deserve.
Who Can Recover Compensation for the Loss of a Loved One?
Georgia law provides specific rules regarding who can file a wrongful death lawsuit and recover compensation. The following individuals are typically eligible:
Surviving Spouse: The surviving spouse has the primary right to bring a wrongful death claim in Georgia. They may also file on behalf of any surviving children.
Surviving Children: If there is no surviving spouse, the deceased’s children have the right to bring a wrongful death claim.
Parents or Guardians: In cases where the decedent was unmarried and had no children, the deceased person’s parents or legal guardians may file a wrongful death claim.
Personal Representative of the Estate: If no immediate family members are available, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate can bring a claim. Any compensation recovered in these cases is distributed according to the estate plan or Georgia inheritance laws.
Understanding these legal rights is essential for ensuring that the appropriate parties can seek justice.
What Should You Do After the Wrongful Death of a Loved One?
The moments after the unexpected loss of a loved one can be overwhelming, but taking specific steps may help support a wrongful death case if you choose to pursue it:
Preserve Evidence: Retain any available evidence related to the accident, such as police reports, medical records, photos, or witness contact information.
Avoid Communication with Insurance Companies: Be cautious when speaking to insurance companies. They may try to settle quickly for less than the claim’s worth, which is why it’s wise to consult an attorney before discussing details with them.
Reach Out to an Attorney: Speaking with a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible ensures you receive clear guidance on the next steps and prevent any mistakes that could impact your claim.
At Morrison & Hughes Law, our attorneys understand the legal complexities involved in wrongful death cases and will work diligently to handle the legal processes while you focus on grieving and healing.
What Are the Benefits of Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Filing a wrongful death lawsuit provides grieving families with a pathway to justice and support during a challenging time. Potential benefits include:
Financial Compensation: A wrongful death claim can help recover compensation for medical expenses incurred before the deceased’s passing, funeral costs, loss of income, and pain and suffering endured by the family.
Acknowledgment of Responsibility: Holding negligent parties accountable can provide closure for families who feel a sense of injustice surrounding their loved one’s passing.
Preventing Future Harm: By bringing these issues to light, wrongful death lawsuits can encourage businesses, individuals, and other entities to implement safer practices, preventing similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
How an Alpharetta Wrongful Death Attorney from Morrison & Hughes Law Can Help
Navigating a wrongful death case alone can be incredibly challenging. With an experienced wrongful death attorney from Morrison & Hughes Law on your side, you can rest assured that your case is in capable hands. Here’s how our team can help:
Thorough Investigation: We will meticulously investigate the circumstances of your loved one’s passing, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting experts to build a strong case.
Determining Full Liability: Identifying all liable parties can maximize the compensation available to your family. We leave no stone unturned in determining the scope of responsibility.
Calculating Damages: Our attorneys will assess the tangible and intangible losses your family has experienced, including lost income, emotional pain, and loss of companionship, ensuring the claim reflects the true impact of your loss.
Guiding You Through Every Step: From filing claims to representing you in negotiations or court, we stand by your side every step of the way, protecting your rights and providing clear communication.
Fighting for Maximum Compensation: We are committed to securing fair compensation for our clients. If needed, we’re prepared to take your case to trial to seek justice for your family.
At Morrison & Hughes Law, we know that financial recovery can never make up for the loss of a loved one. However, obtaining compensation and holding those responsible accountable can provide your family with security and a sense of justice. We’re here to support you during this challenging time with compassion, dedication, and skilled representation.
Contact Morrison & Hughes Law – Your Compassionate Advocates in Alpharetta
If you’ve lost a loved one in a preventable accident in Alpharetta, don’t face this journey alone. By choosing Morrison & Hughes Law, families can focus on healing while we handle the legal intricacies. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. Our goal is to provide the support and advocacy you need during this challenging time, helping you secure the financial resources necessary to move forward.
Contact the wrongful death attorneys at Morrison & Hughes Law at (470) 260-9417 for a free consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and healing.