There is no greater tragedy than the death of your child. If your child lost their life due to the negligence or recklessness of someone else, they deserve to be held accountable for the irreversible harm they’ve caused.
The wrongful death attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, have been helping clients recover monetary damages for over 100 combined years. Countless clients have trusted us with their claims after the wrongful death of a minor in Watertown, and we are honored each time a new client chooses us.
Wrongful death claims may be brought against an at-fault party by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. The personal representative is referred to as the executor or administrator, depending on whether there is a valid will. The representative may file a wrongful death claim, and any compensation will become the property of the estate. When the estate is settled, the money will be distributed according to the will or Connecticut succession laws.
Filing a wrongful death claim is already a complicated process in Watertown, Connecticut, and when a minor loses their life due to the negligence of the at-fault party, it becomes an even more difficult landscape to navigate. Connecticut courts are largely undecided on whether parents can file what’s known as loss of filial consortium claims for the loss of their child.
Loss of consortium refers to the loss of affection, care, protection, and intimacy that one spouse experiences when their husband or wife dies. Filial means relating to a son or daughter, so the loss of filial consortium is the love, companionship, and affection a child loses when their parent dies. Currently, Connecticut only recognizes filial consortium as it relates to a parent’s serious injury but not death, and not a child’s serious injury or death.
Because state statutes do not include any provisions for loss of filial consortium claims after the death of a child, the decision is left up to the courts. Numerous cases have been brought before various courts in the recent past, with decisions on the issue appearing to be split on both sides. Some courts have granted loss of filial consortium to parents, while other courts have not. This issue is likely soon to be decided by the Connecticut Supreme Court.
Due to the unpredictability and uncertainty regarding this issue, it’s important for any parents seeking loss of filial consortium claims for their child’s death to have experienced legal representation. A strong legal strategy and argument will make a difference in cases like this.
Don’t take a chance with a case as important as the wrongful death of a minor in Watertown. As you cope with unspeakable pain and incomparable loss, our attorneys will handle every aspect of your claim so you can focus on grieving. We prioritize maximum compensation for you to improve your chance of feeling a sense of closure and justice.
Contact D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, today to schedule a free consultation with one of our wrongful death attorneys.
