After your loved one wrongfully died, questions about claims and compensation arise, and Bautista Leroy LLC is ready to provide you with information. Our dedicated attorneys have long served clients throughout Southern Illinois and the greater St. Louis region. Our firm focuses on cases such as medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, personal injury law, sexual abuse/assault and railroad crossing incidents.

What Constitutes A Wrongful Death?

When someone intentionally hurts someone, negligently or recklessly does something resulting in the death of an individual, it is considered wrongful death. There is a difference between criminal charges and a wrongful death claim. Criminal charges punish wrongdoings, while a wrongful death claim is a civil action that can hold the responsible party financially accountable. Here are the common causes:

• Traffic accidents
• Medical negligence
• Industrial accidents or workplace negligence.
• Nursing home neglect
• Defective products 
• Dangerous premises

How Is Compensation Determined In A Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

It is usually determined through a legal process. The court evaluates the survivors' losses caused by the sudden death of a loved one. The procedure basically follows these steps:

• Identify who can claim damages 
• Assess the type of damages
• Calculate financial value
• Consider liability and evidence
• Account for state law rules

Who Recovers Compensation From Wrongful Death Claims?

The one who recovers compensation greatly depends on the relationship they have with the deceased and the law of the state where they filed. The following people may have the right to be compensated:

• Spouse or domestic partner
• Children 
• Parents
• Other dependents
• The estate

Why Hiring A Personal Injury Attorney Is Beneficial?

The emotions after losing someone can be high, that is why navigating the case process on your own could be very difficult. An experienced attorney can give you the legal support during this trying time. Here's how they can assist:

• Understand the specific laws
• Investigate the incident
• Calculate the full extent of your losses
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies 
• Prepare your case for trial

When Is The Time To Hire An Attorney?

If you believe the death of your loved one is caused by intentional at or negligence, consult a personal injury attorney immediately to understand your rights to seek justice. Here are the other situations that you might face where the assistance of a legal professional is needed:

• If liability or fault is unclear
• Multiple parties responsible
• Low settlement offers 
• If the statute of limitations is looming

What Are The Criteria For Finding A Good Attorney?

Choosing the right attorney to handle your case can bring many advantages. That is why, before hiring one, you should consider if they have these qualities:

• Experienced in wrongful death and personal injury law.
• Successful results in past settlements or verdicts.
• Communicates well, earning your trust.
• Clear about their fee structure.

Why Choose Bautista LeRoy LLC?

The legal team of Bautista LeRoy LLC has extensive expertise in wrongful death litigation. Throughout the years of our services, one of our main goals has been to make our clients feel supported and meet their expectations through personalized service. We prioritize communication and give clear explanations without overwhelming clients with legal jargon.

Our attorneys recognize the challenge families face emotionally and financially after the passing of a loved one, especially if it is a wrongful death. That is why we blend our legal expertise with compassion, driving us to work harder to hold those responsible parties accountable for an injustice or accident.

Suggested Action Steps

Follow these actionable steps if you believe that the death of your loved one is due to negligence, reckless or intentional act:

• Gather Key Information 
• Contact a Wrongful Death Attorney
• Preserve Evidence
• Avoid Insurance Pressure
• Stay Engaged 
• Allow Yourself to Grieve
• Act Before Deadlines Expire

Truly, pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit can never bring back your loved one, but it can bring accountability and justice. Learning how the process works and hiring a knowledgeable attorney, you will achieve a favorable case outcome for your family and the deceased. Contact us today at 833-381-6589 or send us an email on our Contact Page. Serving St. Louis and the surrounding areas of Boone County and Benton County.