Watertown Wrongful Death Case Process
The death of a loved one is felt especially hard when it’s the result of a preventable accident. When someone you care about is taken suddenly because of another person’s carelessness or intentional wrongdoing, you may have the right to seek a legal remedy through a wrongful death claim. The Watertown, CT wrongful death case process has some significant differences from that of many other states, which is why having support from a skilled attorney is beneficial.
The attorneys at D’Amico Pettinicchi Injury Lawyers have over 100 years of combined experience at their disposal to help them provide compassionate and experienced guidance after the loss of a loved one. Pursuing a wrongful death claim can take a tremendous toll on grieving family members, and our goal is to lessen the burden of the legal process and hold the at-fault party liable for their negligence.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Watertown?
Connecticut General Statute Section 52-555 states that a wrongful death claim can be brought by an executor or administrator of the deceased person’s estate. If your loved one did not name an executor in their will, the probate court will appoint someone to fill this role as the administrator of the estate. The claim must be made within two years from the date of death but no more than a maximum of five years from the date of the fatal act.
How to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Watertown
Before filing a wrongful death claim, it’s important to understand whether there are grounds for such a claim in Watertown, CT. If the deceased individual would have had standing to file a personal injury claim had they survived, then there are likely grounds for filing a wrongful death claim. The deceased accident victim’s estate may be able to pursue compensation if their death was caused by the negligence or recklessness of another person or entity.
The first step is to speak with an experienced wrongful death attorney to ensure the appropriate requirements are met, and the deadline that applies in your case has not passed. D’Amico Pettinicchi Injury Lawyers offers free consultations, so there is no risk in speaking with one of our experienced attorneys to determine if you have a valid claim.
Other vital steps in the beginning stages of a wrongful death claim include:
- Deciding whether to have an autopsy
- Gathering and preserving evidence, such as medical records and crash reports
- Identifying and consulting with expert witnesses
- Collecting expenses and bills, such as medical bills and receipts for funeral expenses
- Providing any notices of a potential claim required by state law
- Filing the wrongful death claim
Contact the Watertown Attorneys at D’Amico Pettinicchi Injury Lawyers for Help Navigating the Wrongful Death Case Process
While no amount of legal justice will ever bring your loved one back or undo the harm caused by their untimely passing, pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide some closure and ensure the at-fault party does not escape financial liability for the suffering they’ve brought on your family.
Contact the legal team at D’Amico Pettinicchi Injury Lawyers to schedule a free in-person or virtual consultation and get support throughout the Watertown wrongful death case process.