Wrongful Death

Helping families get justice and secure their future in the face of tragedy

A wrongful death is one caused by the negligent, careless or reckless behavior of another. But if you are the wife, husband, parent or child of someone who has lost their life in an accident, it is often the greatest tragedy of your life. While nothing can ever truly compensate for the loss of a loved one, the experienced wrongful death attorneys in Lake City at Robinson, Kennon & Kendron, P.A. can help make sure that you and your family receive the funds you will need to cover expenses and future needs.

What you need to know about filing a wrongful death lawsuit

Wrongful death often arises from a personal injury accident, such as a truck, pedestrian, motorcycle or car accident, or from an environmental accident or medical error. The Florida Wrongful Death Statute (Chapter 768) lays out specific guidelines regarding who is eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit, who is eligible to receive compensation, and the types of damages that are recoverable. While each case may be unique, this is a general outline of the statute:

• Those eligible to receive compensation include the spouse and minor children of the decedent.
• Under a specific set of circumstances, the decedent’s estate may also be able to file a claim.
• Parents may or may not be able to file a claim or receive compensation — for instance, if the decedent has a surviving spouse and/or children under the age of 25, parents may not seek damages.
• Upon filing a claim, a Probate Estate must be opened and a personal representative appointed.
• The statute of limitations for filing for damages is two years from the date of death.

As your wrongful death attorneys, Lake City lawyers from Robinson, Kennon & Kendron, P.A. can help eligible family members file damages for:

• Loss of support
• Loss of protection and companionship
• Loss of parental companionship, guidance and instruction
• Pain and suffering

The estate may also recover damages for:

• Medical expenses
• Funeral costs
• Other expenses that are recoverable, under a certain set of circumstances, may include creditor debts and loss of net estate accumulations

The regulations regarding filing for a wrongful death lawsuit in Florida are complex. It is likely in your best interest to work with attorneys who have experience in this area of the law.

Contact a trusted Lake City wrongful death law firm

To schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your matter, please contact a lawyer online or call Robinson, Kennon & Kendron, P.A. at 386.755.1334. All wrongful death cases are taken on a contingency basis — there are no fees unless your attorney wins your case.