Wrongful Death Attorneys in Gulfport, MS

What is Wrongful Death?

Wrongful death is when a person dies due to a wrongful act or negligence of another person. If you have lost a loved one unexpectedly in an accident, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. If your loved one died because of the misconduct or recklessness of someone else, contacting a skilled wrongful death attorney in Gulfport experienced in handling wrongful death cases is an excellent first step.

If successful, you may receive compensation for medical expenses, funeral expenses, loss of companionship, emotional distress, and lost wages and financial support. Your lawyer will be able to uncover all your legal options and provide you with the guidance you are looking for. In particular, they will be able to assess your case and determine if you have grounds for a claim. Get in touch with a qualified Gulfport wrongful death attorney today.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death

What Are Wrongful Death Damages?

Wrongful death damages are the different things that you may be able to receive compensation for following the death of your loved one. According to Mississippi state law, decedent's estate may file a lawsuit to obtain compensation for the following:

• Medical expenses incurred due to the victims injury or illness and the care they received prior to their death
• Funeral and burial expenses the family is required to pay upon their loved one's death
• Compensation for damaged or destroyed property if there was damage done as a result of the accident

In addition to these monetary damages, surviving family members of the deceased may request compensation for the following emotional damages:

• Pain and suffering that the family was forced to endure as a result of their loved one's death
• Loss of companionship, particularly if the decedent left behind a spouse or children
• Lost wages or benefits that would likely have been earned by the decedent, had they not suffered an untimely death

To learn more what possible damages you may be compensated for, reach out to a Gulfport wrongful death attorney near you at Gulf South Law Firm.

What is Mississippi's Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations?

Each state has something called a "statute of limitations" that sets a time limit for how long after their accident a victim or their surviving family can file a lawsuit against the negligent party. Mississippi's wrongful death statutes often differ from general personal injury statutes.

Mississippi's wrongful death statute of limitations is unique in that it has two different deadlines, depending on the type of claim:

• One Year - If the death was caused by an intentional act, the lawsuit must be brought against the guilty party within 1 year of the victim's death. For example, an intentional act could include someone assaulting another person, resulting in their death.
• Three Years - If the death was a result of negligent behavior, the victim's family has up to 3 years following their loved one's death to file a claim against the negligent party. This could include a situation in which the individual lost their life due to a negligent oversight or failure to prevent the incident.

Regardless of which type of claim you are filing, it's extremely important that you consult with a professional wrongful death lawyer near you in Gulfport as soon as possible following your loved one's death. Complications can arise and witnesses memories may grow foggy if too much time is allowed to pass following the event.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Mississippi?

In personal injury cases, it is the injured party who files a lawsuit. In wrongful death matters, the law dictates which parties can bring forth a lawsuit for compensation. Mississippi’s statutes say that the following people can file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of their lost loved one:

• The deceased party’s estate personal representative
• The deceased party’s surviving spouse
• The deceased party’s surviving child or children
• The deceased party’s surviving parents
• The deceased party’s surviving siblings

Don't wait to get help. Contact our firm for a free consultation by dialing (228) 231-3989 and talk to a seasoned Gulfport wrongful death lawyer at Gulf South Law Firm to discuss the details of your case.