Minnesota & Wisconsin Wrongful Death
All death seems wrongful, especially when the deceased is a close friend or family member. In legal terms, however, a wrongful death claim refers to a claim to recover compensation for the losses (e.g., financial loss or damages) suffered because of a wrongful death caused by someone else's negligence. To recover compensation, you must prove that a person or company was responsible or at fault for causing the death. In most cases, the other party's fault must be at least equal to or greater than the fault of the deceased.
Wrongful death cases stem from a variety of circumstances, including:
- Medical malpractice or doctors' errors
- Automobile, truck, airplane or other transportation accident
- Accident causing death that takes place during a supervised activity
- Occupational exposure to a hazardous substance
- Dangerous work conditions
- Criminal behavior (DWI, assault, murder)
- Lack of security where there was a reasonable expectation (hotels, resorts)
How is recovery determined?
Recovery from a wrongful death is based on the pecuniary injuries incurred by the surviving spouse and/or next of kin. Pecuniary, or financial, injuries are measured by the deceased’s earning capacity, life expectancy and the circumstances of the remaining family members. A jury reviews all of the contributing factors and determines the total financial loss incurred by the family as a result of the wrongful death.
How much will it cost to hire a lawyer?
You pay nothing until you have received compensation for your loss. There are no up-front costs and you won't pay a dime until the recovery check is in your pocket. The first step to recovering compensation, however, is to call Schroeder & Mandel, P.A. for a no-cost, no-obligation meeting to review your unique situation. If you decide to move forward with your case, your lawyer is paid a percentage of the final award to you.
Don't wait to get your life back on track. Call Schroeder & Mandel, P.A. today.
Minnesota Wrongful Death Statute
