Losing a loved one is incredibly challenging, particularly if the loss of life happens because of the actions of another person or entity. At Gary C. Johnson, P.S.C., we want to step in and help if you need a Frankfort wrongful death lawyer. Our Frankfort personal injury lawyers have extensive experience handling complicated injury and wrongful death claims throughout Kentucky, and we want to help bring your family peace of mind as we work to help bring closure by securing the compensation you deserve.
Wrongful death claims arise due to a wide variety of reasons in and around the Frankfort area. State statute specifies that these claims arise when a person loses their life because of an injury inflicted by the wrongful act or negligence of another, which can be another individual, business, or entity. Some of the most common types of claims associated with wrongful death case filings include:
This is certainly not a complete list of how wrongful death claims can arise, and we strongly encourage you to reach out to our legal team for a free consultation of your case specifics today. The process of determining fault for these incidents is challenging, and you may actually have a claim even if you do not think so right now.
There may be various types of compensation available should a wrongful death claim be successful. Usually, the estate of the deceased individual can receive compensation for funeral expenses, attorneys’ fees, and administration costs. Surviving family members can receive the remainder of the damages awarded. Typically, this compensation can help cover:
Any compensation that does not go to the estate of the deceased will go to the surviving family members in this order:
The total amount of compensation paid to an estate and surviving family members will vary depending on specific circumstances related to each wrongful death claim.
The law in Kentucky specifically states that, in most circumstances, the personal representative, sometimes called the executor, of the deceased individual’s estate is responsible for filing a wrongful death claim in civil court. This claim is filed on behalf of the estate as well as the surviving family members. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, including the following:
Paying for a wrongful death lawyer in Frankfort, Kentucky, does not have to be impossible. Our team proudly handles these claims on a contingency fee basis because we know families need help. Under a contingency fee arrangement, we handle all of the upfront costs associated with the claim. Clients will not be responsible for legal fees until after we successfully recover the compensation they are entitled to. This means that estates and family members pay nothing unless we recover compensation, and if we do not win the case, they will not pay a dime at all.
There are a few time limits associated with filing wrongful death claims in Frankfort, KY. Generally, wrongful death claims must be filed within one year from the date a personal representative gets appointed to the estate. However, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of death in the event a personal representative is not appointed for more than one year after the date of death.
If you have lost somebody you care about due to the negligent actions of another individual, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim to recover compensation. At Gary C. Johnson, P.S.C., we have a thorough understanding of wrongful death laws and processes in Kentucky, and we want to help. Our Frankfort wrongful death lawyer can examine the facts of your case, handle any negotiations, and go all the way to trial by your side if needed. You can contact us for a completely free consultation of your claim by filling out our contact form or calling us at (800) 337-4002.