Is a wrongful death claim the same as a wrongful death suit?

No, a wrongful death claim is not the same as a wrongful death suit. A wrongful death claim is a legal action that is taken by the family of the deceased, usually through their personal injury attorney, against the person or entity responsible for the death of the decedent. This person or entity is called the “defendant.” The claim seeks monetary compensation for the harm caused by the defendant’s negligence. A wrongful death suit, on the other hand, is a civil action brought to court by the estate of the deceased against the responsible party. This is different from a wrongful death claim because it is a formal lawsuit that must be initiated by the court. In the state of New York, the wrongful death suit must be filed within two years of the death of the decedent. The purpose of the wrongful death suit is to hold the responsible party accountable for the death of the decedent and to seek financial compensation for the family. This compensation usually includes medical bills, funeral expenses, and other damages. It is important to note that while a wrongful death claim is the first step taken in seeking justice for the death of a loved one, a wrongful death suit is the formal, legal process of seeking compensation for the harm caused by the defendant’s negligence.

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