Losing a loved one is one of the worst tragedies a family can endure. The pain of the loss along with the often extreme economic impact can be devastating.
At the Portlock Law, we understand how difficult this time can be and work hard to be there for families when they need us the most. If you lost a loved one in a preventable accident, a compassionate Trenton wrongful death attorney at our law firm can help. We’ll listen to your story, inform you of your options, and guide you through each step of the legal process. Call today for confidential case evaluation.
What Constitutes A Wrongful Death Claim?
In New Jersey, wrongful death is defined by N.J.S.A. 2A:31. Essentially, a wrongful death occurs when the death of a person is caused by a wrongful act, neglect, or omission. In these cases, a wrongful death claim can be brought against the legally responsible party by the descendant’s heirs. Wrongful death claims can arise from many different fatal accidents in Trenton, including:
- Car accidents
- Commercial truck accidents
- Bicycle and pedestrian accidents
- Premises accidents (i.e. slip and fall accidents)
- Workplace accidents
- Medical malpractice
If you believe you have a valid wrongful death claim, it is extremely important that you speak with a Trenton personal injury lawyer experienced in wrongful death claims. Wrongful death cases can be difficult, lengthy, and involve many complex legal concepts and statutes. They may also require significant investigation and expert testimony to prove and typically involve large and powerful defendants. A wrongful death attorney can help build the strongest case possible, protect your family’s rights, and fight for justice on behalf of your loved one.
Proving a Wrongful Death Case in New Jersey
Wrongful death claims typically center around the concept of negligence. In order to have a successful outcome, your Trenton wrongful death lawyer must establish that the party responsible for your loved one’s death:
- Owed them a duty of care
- Breached that duty (through action or omission)
- That breach caused the accident or injury
- The accident injured and (ultimately) killed your loved one
Proving negligence requires a preponderance of the evidence that may include: police and accident reports, eyewitness statements, subject matter and medical experts, photographs and videos, accident reconstruction, medical records, and a coroner’s report. Our local wrongful death attorneys in Trenton can help you collect and present evidence during a wrongful death claim in Mercer County.
What Damages Are Awarded in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
At the Portlock Law, our wrongful death lawyers understand that nothing will make up for losing your loved one. Our lead personal injury attorney in New Jersey understands that no amount of money can make your family whole again. However, pursuing compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit can bring your family closure, justice and peace of mind about the future.
Compensation available in a wrongful death claim in New Jersey includes reasonable funeral and burial costs, related medical expenses, loss of consortium, and lost income. In some cases, punitive damages may be available.
Contact Us for a Consultation With a Trenton Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you’ve lost a loved one, contact the Portlock Law during this difficult time. You deserve answers after the wrongful death of your loved. We will listen to your loved one’s story, get to know your family, and let you know how we can help. Contact us online or call our law office directly at (609) 356-0862 for a consultation with a wrongful death attorney in Trenton, NJ.
Call Now For A Personalized Case Evaluation
(609) 356-0862