When the negligent acts of an individual cause another person to be injured, the injured party can file a personal injury lawsuit to claim financial compensation. If an individual dies as a result of another party’s negligence, a type of personal injury claim can be filed on their behalf. This kind of lawsuit is called “wrongful death.”
There are a number of scenarios where a victim’s family may want to file a wrongful death lawsuit, including:
The death of a family member can have major financial implications. If the deceased person is the family breadwinner, for example, their dependents will have lost a major source of income to meet their basic needs, such as paying rent or the mortgage, food and educational expenses. Children, in particular, may suffer the effects of lost income from a parent or caregiver.
The deceased may have been treated for injuries before their death, resulting in extensive hospital bills. Even a short period in a hospital can be incredibly costly. Unexpected funeral expenses also create a financial burden for the victim’s family.
Losing a spouse, parent or sibling also incurs non-economic damages, defined as pain and suffering. Mental anguish, post-traumatic stress, depression, and loss of enjoyment are all experiences that justify a wrongful death lawsuit.
There are four conditions that must be present to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Illinois.
Plaintiffs in a wrongful death lawsuit may also be able to recover damages for personal injury to the victim, for example, damages for pain and suffering the victim may have experienced before their death.
A jury decides the amount awarded to the victim’s estate. The jury considers a number of factors about the victim and their beneficiaries, including:
If damages are awarded by the court, the funds go to the estate and are distributed to the beneficiaries in the deceased person’s will. The court may decide to adjust the amount awarded by the jury, and the adjustment may be up or down.
If a family member has died as a result of another party’s negligent actions, you need the best possible legal support. Dealing with a wrongful death lawsuit is a complex and stressful experience, and we are here to help. The team at Mueller, Lawson & Frobish will fight for the fairest outcome for you and your family. Contact us today for a consultation.
I was referred by a friend to Eric Frobish, when going through a divorce and I am glad I took this advice. From the day of the consultation to the day the divorce was finalized, I was patiently walked through the entire process and kept up to date throughout the entire process. Eric is very straight-forward, down to earth and knowledgeable in regards to divorce and child custody. Eric’s assistant, Sarah is also very kind and helpful. Divorce is a very stressful situation and Eric and Sarah made the process and transition so much easier. I would highly recommend Eric to anyone in need of a divorce or child custody attorney, as you will not be disappointed!
After many interviews with attorneys, I was referred to Eric Frobish. To say that it was the right man for the situation would be an understatement. I had a very complicated mess that he was able to help me sort through and end up with the best outcome under the circumstances. As the case took many twists and turns, he and his staff were right there to guide me and advise me. I never had to wait very long for an answer and I could be assured Eric was always looking out for my best interests. I will never use another law firm. Honesty, integrity and sincere compassion in very trying circumstances. The absolute top of the line.
I was recently divorced on 03~01~16. My case was taken care of in a real professional and private manner. I can remember when I talked to my counsel on the telephone for a consultation. He had patience with me, even though I had a real hard time telling my story without crying. My story was a little terrifying to tell to another person, but Mr. Frobish was a good listener. I had been looking for legal help for a while. There was a lot of suffering all the while. I still go to meetings for mental and physical abuse. I substained very bad physical abuse, close to death. My former husband was/is a career criminal and still on the run. Mueller, Lawson & Frobish, P.C. took care of my divorce and they were very kind and caring and also showed me respect. Everyone in the firm did a great job in keeping me informed on the progress they were making on my case. I would definitely recommend this law firm to anyone. I again just want to thank you so much for taking care of my divorce. Forever thankful – Vickie Sue Crumb
Professional, courteous and knowledgeable – we will recommend them and use them again in our future.
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A top-notch law firm that listens to their clients. A wide variety of services are offered, give them a call for great legal assistance.
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Mueller, Lawson & Frobish, P.C. is an excellent Law Firm located in Morris Illinois. Specifically, Eric Frobish is an excellent attorney that we have worked with in a Guardianship case for the past three plus years. I found the above referenced law firm from the Internet. Upon the very first meeting, Eric was completely professional, honest and explained clearly what all was going to be involved in such an important case. This case was urgent, and had allot of unknowns and seemingly impossible odds against our ability to win. I am elated that after three years of sound advice and hard work on Eric Frobish’s part, we won the case. So many lives were impacted positively because of Eric’s knowledge of the law, his compassion for the children involved and experience. I honestly doubt that we could have won this case if it were any other lawyer in the area, other than Eric. He not only out maneuvered blatantly untrue attempts for us to lose, but brought in numerous witnesses to testify with facts to prove they were all untrue. Their was not one stone unturned. Eric guided us the entire duration and was absolutely impressive during the trial. We were so proud that Eric was representing us! There are no words that can express the gratitude we have towards Mr. Eric Frobish and his law firm. Everyone at the firm from the Lawyer, Assistants and the Secretary were nothing but courteous, polite and professional and I would highly recommend their services to anyone.
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