Camden County Wrongful Death Lawyers
Losing a loved one unexpectedly due to negligence is one of the most devastating experiences a family can endure. In addition to the emotional toll, surviving family members are often left dealing with the financial and legal fallout. While no amount of money can bring your loved one back, a wrongful death claim may provide financial support and hold the responsible party accountable.
If you believe your loved one died due to someone else’s actions, it’s important to consult a Camden County wrongful death lawyer to understand your rights and potential legal options.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim arises when someone dies as a result of another party’s negligent, reckless, or intentional actions. Under New Jersey law, surviving family members have the right to file a claim for compensation when a wrongful act causes the loss of a loved one.
This type of claim is essentially a personal injury lawsuit filed on behalf of the deceased. It allows families to seek compensation for their losses through an insurance claim or a civil lawsuit. A wrongful death attorney can help you determine the best course of action based on the facts of your case.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death claims can result from a variety of fatal incidents, including:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Defective or dangerous products
- Truck accidents
- Workplace accidents
Regardless of how the death occurred, the legal process remains the same: the family must prove another party was at fault.
What You Must Prove in a New Jersey Wrongful Death Claim
To succeed in a wrongful death case in New Jersey, you must generally show that:
- The defendant committed a wrongful act (negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm).
- That act caused the death of your loved one.
- Your family suffered damages because of the loss.
In cases based on negligence, these additional four elements must be proven:
- The defendant owed your loved one a duty of care.
- The defendant breached that duty.
- The breach caused your loved one’s death.
- The death resulted in measurable damages to the family.
Because the victim cannot testify, evidence is especially important. A wrongful death lawyer can help collect and present:
- Witness statements.
- Photographs or video footage of the scene.
- Police or incident reports.
- Expert testimony, such as accident reconstruction.
- Documents and testimony obtained through discovery in litigation.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Camden County, New Jersey?
In New Jersey, only the personal representative of the deceased’s estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit. This individual is usually named in the deceased’s will or appointed by the court.
Although the personal representative files the claim, damages are pursued on behalf of the deceased’s financial dependents, such as:
- Spouse
- Children
- Parents
- Siblings or other relatives who were financially dependent on the deceased
Any compensation recovered must be distributed according to New Jersey’s wrongful death and intestacy laws.
What Compensation Can Be Recovered?
Wrongful death damages are meant to compensate the surviving family for both financial and emotional losses. Recoverable damages may include:
- Loss of income that the deceased would have earned.
- Loss of household services and care.
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and support.
- Loss of consortium for the surviving spouse.
- Funeral and burial expenses.
- Emotional pain, grief, and suffering.
Some damages, like lost income, are easier to quantify than others, such as emotional loss. Insurance companies often dispute the value of a wrongful death claim, but an experienced lawyer can present strong evidence to support your case and ensure you are treated fairly.
Why Choose Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York
When you work with Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York, you get a legal team that understands the emotional and financial challenges you are facing. Their wrongful death attorneys have:
- Decades of combined experience handling wrongful death and personal injury claims.
- A compassionate, client-focused approach.
- A track record of success in securing favorable results for grieving families.
- In-depth knowledge of New Jersey wrongful death law.
- The resources to build strong cases and negotiate or litigate effectively.
They are committed to helping you pursue justice while providing the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.
Contact Our Camden County Wrongful Death Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York
If someone else’s actions caused your loved one’s death, speak with a Camden County wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. Time is limited to take legal action, and early representation can make a difference in the outcome of your case. To schedule a free consultation, call 856-843-8990 or 610-532-4222 or fill out our online contact form. With offices in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and Milmont Park, Pennsylvania, Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York serves families throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania.