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Wrongful death is a legal term that refers to a death that results from the wrongful act or negligence of another individual or party. The surviving relatives (i.e. spouse, children, parents) of the accident victim can claim damages if the death was caused in whole or part by the defendant and if monetary damages have resulted from the victim's death. In many states, before a wrongful death lawsuit is filed, a representative of the estate must be appointed through a Court of Probate.
A wrongful death lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal system so that you can receive the settlement owed to the estate of your deceased loved one. Though the period directly after a death is most difficult for the victim's survivors, it is extremely important to contact a lawyer immediately because critical evidence is often destroyed within days or weeks of the accident.
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