woman in black clothes visiting cemetery

Wesley Chapel Wrongful Death Lawyer

The sudden loss of a loved one doesn’t just cause a profound sadness—it’s a disruption that tears through every moment of everyday life. When that loss comes from someone else’s mistake or negligence, the pain is compounded by a sense of injustice, leaving families to grapple with questions that have no easy answers.

We know that no amount of money can truly replace the loss of a loved one, but we believe that pursuing justice can help ease some of the burdens left behind. Whether it’s dealing with unexpected medical bills, funeral costs, or the financial void left by losing a primary income, our team stands by your side.

Every family’s story is unique, and every loss is personal. We don’t see our clients as just another case number; we see them as individuals who deserve empathy, respect, and the best legal representation.

As your Wesley Chapel wrongful death lawyers, we are committed to standing beside you. We provide the compassionate support and legal representation needed to navigate this challenging time.

Contact our Wesley Chapel wrongful death lawyers at (727) 233-2134 for a free consultation.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a legal action brought by the family or loved ones of someone who has lost their life due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another. A wrongful death claim is the way the law provides a path for families to receive compensation for their loss.

These claims can arise from different situations, such as medical malpractice, car accidents, workplace incidents, or even defective products. The essence of a wrongful death claim is that the death was avoidable and resulted directly from another party’s failure to act responsibly or safely.

When dealing with such a loss, navigating the legal waters can feel like a lot. It’s a heavy burden to bear, but a wrongful death claim aims to provide some measure of relief for the surviving family members.

Proving Wrongful Death in Florida

Proving wrongful death in Florida can be complex, but it’s essential for seeking justice for your loved one.

In a wrongful death case, the burden of proof lies with the plaintiff. This means that, as the family of the deceased, you must show that the negligent or intentional actions of another party directly caused the death. This involves demonstrating several key elements.

To prove wrongful death in Florida, you need to establish four key elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. First, we must show that the responsible party owed a duty of care to your loved one. This means that they had a legal obligation to act with a certain level of caution and care. For example, a doctor has a duty to provide competent medical care, and a driver has a duty to follow traffic laws.

Next, we need to demonstrate that this duty was breached. This could involve showing that the doctor made a critical error or that the driver was distracted or speeding. Gathering evidence is crucial at this stage, and we will investigate the circumstances of the incident to build a strong case.

Causation is the third element. We must link the breach of duty directly to the death of your loved one. This means proving that their actions, or lack thereof, directly caused the fatal incident. This often involves complex medical records, expert testimony, and detailed accident reports. We work closely with experts to ensure that all aspects of causation are clearly presented.

Finally, we need to prove damages. This goes beyond just financial losses. While we will certainly account for medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost income, we also consider the emotional impact on your family. The loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support are significant factors, and we aim to ensure that these are fully recognized in your claim.

Who Can Recover Losses From a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Under the provisions of the Florida Wrongful Death Act, only specific survivors of the deceased are eligible to pursue damages through a wrongful death lawsuit in the state. Eligible survivors include:

  • Surviving Spouse: A spouse who survives the decedent can claim damages for loss of companionship and support.
  • Children: Both minor children and adult children may be eligible to recover damages. If no surviving spouse exists, adult children can also make a claim.
  • Parents: The decedent’s parents can seek compensation, particularly for emotional suffering due to the loss of a child.
  • Dependent Blood Relatives: Any blood relatives financially dependent on the decedent at the time of death may have a claim.
  • Dependent Adopted Children: Similarly, any adopted children who were financially dependent on the decedent can pursue damages.

Additionally, under Florida Statutes § 768.20, a personal representative—appointed to manage the deceased’s estate—holds the authority to initiate a wrongful death lawsuit. The personal representative also acts on behalf of the surviving family members, who must be listed when filing the action. This representative ensures that all eligible family members are considered in the lawsuit and that their interests are represented in court.

Why Choose Wendy Doyle-Palumbo?

At Wendy Doyle-Palumbo, we approach each case with empathy and respect. Here’s why families in Wesley Chapel choose us:

  • Proven Success: Our track record of successful outcomes attests to our commitment and expertise. We bring years of experience and a history of positive results to your case, aiming to add a layer of confidence during challenging times.
  • Personal Attention: We believe in treating our clients like family. When you work with us, you’re not just another case file. We take the time to get to know you, understand your story, and tailor our approach to meet your needs. We’re here to listen, answer your questions, and provide the support you need
  • Local Expertise: With deep roots in the Wesley Chapel community, we are well-acquainted with local laws and regulations. This insight allows us to effectively advocate for your rights and navigate the intricacies of wrongful death claims specific to our area.
  • Empathy and Compassion: We understand that no amount of money can ever replace your loved one. Our approach is centered on empathy and compassion, ensuring you feel supported and understood every step of the way.
  • Accessible and Responsive: We know that you have questions and concerns, and we’re always here to address them. Our team will provide updates, answer questions, and offer reassurance throughout the legal process.
  • Investigative Resources: We have the resources to investigate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death. Our team works with forensic experts, accident reconstruction analysts, and other specialists to uncover the truth and hold the responsible parties accountable.

How We Can Help

At Wendy Doyle-Palumbo, we are here to shoulder that burden so you can focus on healing and remembering your loved one. Here’s how we can help you and your family navigate this challenging journey:

Listening to and Understanding Your Story

The first step is always listening. Our Wesley Chapel wrongful death lawyers take the time to sit down with you and hear your story. We try to understand the legal details and the personal impact this loss has had on your family. We know every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your needs.

Comprehensive Investigation

To build a strong case, we conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death. This includes gathering evidence, consulting with experts, and identifying all responsible parties. Our approach aims to uncover the truth and hold those at fault accountable.

Handling the Legal Complexities

The legal process can be complex. We take care of all the legal paperwork, filings, and deadlines, allowing you to focus on healing. From filing the wrongful death claim to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court, we handle every aspect.

Seeking Fair Compensation

We understand that no amount of money can replace your loved one. However, securing fair compensation can help reduce the financial strain caused by medical bills, funeral expenses, and loss of income. We fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Unwavering Representation

While we approach our clients with compassion, we are fierce advocates in the courtroom. We’re not afraid to take on insurance companies or large corporations to fight for the justice your loved one deserves. Our goal is to secure the maximum compensation for your loss.

Compensation in Wrongful Death Cases

When pursuing a wrongful death claim, compensation can cover different expenses and losses, including:

  • Medical Costs: These are expenses your loved one may have incurred for medical care before passing. It can include hospital stays, treatment costs, and any other medical expenses that accumulate, which can be unexpectedly large.
  • Funeral and Burial Expenses: Funeral and burial expenses are another immediate financial concern for families. The sudden cost of these services can be a heavy burden. Seeking compensation for these expenses can provide financial support to give your loved one a dignified farewell.
  • Lost Wages and Income: This covers the earnings your loved one would have provided had their life not been cut short. It includes lost wages and the loss of future earning potential, which can be crucial for families financially dependent on the deceased.
  • Loss of Companionship and Support: We recognize the impact of losing the guidance, support, and companionship of a loved one. While difficult to quantify, compensation for these losses acknowledges the emotional and relational void left behind.
  • Pain and Suffering: If your loved one suffered before their passing, compensation might also be sought for their pain and distress during those final moments. This recognizes their suffering and provides some measure of justice.

Contact Our Wesley Chapel Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

Losing someone you love is never easy, and facing the legal aspects of a wrongful death claim can feel overwhelming. At Wendy Doyle-Palumbo, we understand that this is a time of profound grief and uncertainty. We want you to know you don’t have to navigate this challenging journey alone. Our team is here to stand by your side, offering legal expertise, genuine compassion, and support every step of the way.

We recognize that no amount of money can ever truly replace the loss of a loved one, but seeking justice can help bring some measure of closure and financial relief during this difficult time. Our goal is to ease your burden by handling the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your family and healing.

If you’ve lost someone you care about due to another’s negligence, contact us. We’re here to listen, understand, and advocate on your behalf.

Contact our Wesley Chapel wrongful death lawyers at (727) 233-2134 for a free consultation. Together, we can work toward holding those responsible accountable and ensuring your family’s needs are met.

Read Our Recent Blogs