While monetary compensation will never be able to reverse such a horrible tragedy, filing a lawsuit and receiving compensation can help you get your life back on track. Here’s what you need to do immediately after a loved one dies as a result of wrongful death:
1. Report the incident right away
Not only do you need to file the case quickly, but it’s essential to report the incident to any organizations that were involved. For instance, if a loved one died as a result of a negligent doctor at a hospital, you need to report the incident to hospital management.
2. Contact a skilled attorney
It’s essential to contact a skilled and experienced wrongful death attorney. They will be able to present the case in a convincing manner to the courtroom, and they’ll also be able to provide advice on how much compensation you can expect.
3. Document everything related to the incident
In order to improve your chances of having a successful case, it’s important to gather as much photographic and written evidence as possible. This can be presented in the courtroom during your appearance, and it can make a huge difference in terms of the outcome of your case. Your lawyer will be able to help you successfully gather evidence.
4. If criminal conduct occurred, file a police report
If criminal conduct led to the wrongful death, make sure that you file a police report quickly. This will ensure that the statute of limitations does not run out on potential charges against the defendant. Your lawyer will be able to help you to determine if the defendant’s conduct could be considered criminal.
5. Prepare for your day in court
While your wrongful death attorney will help you with your case, it’s important to present yourself properly in the courtroom. There are several things that you’ll need to consider. First, it will be important to choose the right attire for the courtroom. Second, you will need to prepare any statements that your lawyer advises that you make to the court. Furthermore, your court appearance can be a stressful event, which means that it’s important to make sure you are mentally prepared for the day.