How does a wrongful death lawsuit affect the estate of the deceased?

In Washington, a wrongful death lawsuit may affect the estate of the deceased in a variety of ways. Generally, wrongful death lawsuits provide financial compensation to the survivors of the deceased. This compensation can help with expenses associated with the death, such as funeral and burial costs, medical bills, and loss of future income. In addition to providing financial relief, the estate may receive non-economic damages such as emotional pain and suffering and the loss of companionship. In some cases, a wrongful death lawsuit may also provide punitive damages for especially egregious cases. Punitive damages are used to punish the defendant for negligence or recklessness and to deter similar conduct in the future. Any money awarded from a wrongful death lawsuit will typically be deposited in the decedent’s estate and distributed according to their will or the state’s laws of intestate succession. Depending on the state’s laws, the surviving spouse, children, or other relatives may receive a portion of the damages. To ensure that the deceased’s estate receives all of the financial compensation it deserves, it’s important to consult with a qualified wrongful death attorney as soon as possible after the death of a loved one.

Related FAQs

What happens if the defendant in a wrongful death case does not have sufficient insurance coverage to cover the damages?
What is the difference between a wrongful death claim and a wrongful death lawsuit?
What is the difference between a wrongful death claim and a survival action?
Can a wrong result be overturned after a wrongful death case is settled?
How long does a wrongful death suit take to go to court?
Is a wrongful death claim different from a survivorship claim?
How much time does a wrongful death suit take to be resolved?
Who can be held liable for a wrongful death?
What are the economic damages that may be awarded in a wrongful death case?
Can a wrongful death claim be filed against a private employer?

How does a wrongful death lawsuit affect the estate of the deceased?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts