New Jersey Wrongful Death Lawyer
We can help you recover financial compensation
The loss of a loved one is always painful. But it can even more difficult to process when a loved one died in a personal injury accident caused by negligence. The impact on families can be felt in many ways. The loss is emotionally devastating for all members of the family but can also be financially difficult.
New Jersey wrongful death attorney David Leigh of The Leigh Law Firm, P.C. helps families who have lost loved ones to negligence in Millburn and throughout Essex and Union counties. He can help guide you through the legal process to hold negligent parties accountable and help you get justice. Schedule your free, confidential consultation today.
What is a wrongful death claim?
In New Jersey, wrongful death is defined as a death “caused by a wrongful act, neglect or default.” It can happen as a result of a car accident, truck crash, motorcycle collision, or a premises liability accident. Other wrongful deaths occur as a result of using defective products or medical malpractice. It’s essentially a personal injury claim filed on behalf of someone who died.
Who can file a wrongful death claim? In New Jersey, the personal representative of the estate can file a claim for damages on behalf of the surviving spouse and children. If there is no spouse or child, surviving parents and other family members may be able to recover damages.
What kind of damages can you recover in a wrongful death suit?
You can generally seek compensation for economic damages, including loss of financial support, loss of companionship, the value of household services (such as childcare, laundry, cooking, and yardwork), funeral and burial expenses, and your loved one’s final medical expenses.
You may also be able to file a claim for non-economic damages under the New Jersey Survival Act. This statute allows family members to seek compensation for pain and suffering experienced by their loved one before death.
We know that nothing can bring your loved one back. But a wrongful death suit can help you and your family recover the financial compensation you deserve to help you move forward.
A wrongful death attorney who knows how to get results
Negligent parties often deny doing anything wrong after an accident involving wrongful death. Insurance companies fight claims for compensation because they know there is a lot of money at stake. They may make a lowball settlement offer or use one of the many other different tactics they have to try to pay you as little as possible.
Attorney Leigh is very familiar with how insurance companies approach these cases. He used to represent insurance companies. Now he puts his experience to work for people who have lost loved ones due to another’s negligence. We investigate your loved one’s accident to find out what happened. This involves gathering evidence, carefully reviewing accident reports and other documentation, seeking access to safety and maintenance records, and interviewing witnesses. If needed, we consult experts.
Attorney Leigh can handle everything for you so you can focus on your family during this difficult time. He will investigate your loved one’s accident, build a strong case for compensation, and deal directly with the insurance company on your behalf.
There are no case managers here – you will deal directly with attorney Leigh. He will keep you updated on the progress of your case. And if you ever have any questions or concerns, you can call him directly on his cell phone.
When should you file a wrongful death lawsuit?
The statute of limitations in New Jersey for taking legal action after a wrongful death is two years from the date your loved one died. Beyond that date, a lawsuit will likely not be allowed to proceed.
But while two years sounds like plenty of time, it’s better not to wait. It can take a long time to build a strong case that forces the insurance company to take your claim seriously. Important evidence can be lost as time goes by, and witnesses may forget details that can help you prove negligence. That’s why it’s in your best interests to talk to an experienced lawyer as soon as possible.
Schedule your free consultation with a wrongful death lawyer
We know you are going through a lot right now, and the thought of legal action may be the last thing on your mind. You may not even be sure if you have a case. But you should know what your options are. We offer a free consultation. Attorney Leigh can go over the details of what happened, talk about your options for compensation, and answer any questions you have. If you do choose our firm to represent you, you owe us nothing unless we recover compensation.
Learn more about how we can help. Contact us to schedule your free consultation. Our office is in Millburn, or attorney Leigh can meet you at a more convenient location.