Chicagoland Wrongful Death Lawyers Ready to Help
Highland Park, Illinois Law Firm Handles Wrongful Death Cases
A wrongful death claim is a civil claim made by the survivors of an individual who died as a result of the negligence or misconduct of another person or entity. Under this type of action, family members, life partners, and financial dependents are allowed to make a claim for monetary damages to compensate for the financial and emotional support they lost due to the death of their loved one.
Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
In Highland Park, Illinois, a spouse may file a wrongful death claim on behalf of their deceased spouse; one or both parents of minor children may initiate a wrongful death action if one of their children is killed; and children can collect compensation for the death of their parents.
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim
In a wrongful death action, the plaintiff is usually a family member who files the claim on behalf of the deceased person’s heirs. Once a wrongful death lawsuit is filed in court, the plaintiff must prove the following elements before damages can be awarded:
- Duty of care. The plaintiff must establish that the defendant owed a duty of care, or obligation, to the deceased person.
- Breach of duty. The plaintiff must prove that the defendant breached (violated) the duty of care they owed.
- Causation. The plaintiff must show that the defendant’s particular action (or inaction) caused the wrongful death.
If you are grieving the passing of a loved one due to wrongful death, contact the injury attorneys at Kelly Law Offices, LLC online or call 1-800-859-8800 to schedule your free consultation and discuss your potential for recovery today. There is never a fee unless you collect.
