According to studies, the unexpected death of a loved one is the most commonly reported potentially traumatic experience. Given the critical role of close relationships throughout one’s life, losing a loved one is a uniquely stressful experience. The significance and impact of these occurrences increase when the death results from another’s negligence.
In cases of wrongful death, surviving loved ones can experience a series of strong responses and repercussions that can impact every aspect of their life. To compensate for these consequences, the spouse, parents, or children of the victim of a wrongful death in Maine can bring a claim against the negligent party.
The Portland wrongful death attorneys at Mann Law provide clients with excellent advice, counsel, and representation throughout their claims, allowing them to focus on healing after these traumatic experiences. Contact the personal injury lawyers at Mann Law to schedule a free initial consultation.
Those who suffer injuries from an accident or another negligent act can recover damages under Maine’s personal injury laws. Similarly, Maine’s wrongful death statute permits surviving family members to recover compensation from the at-fault party.
However, Maine’s wrongful death statute is complex and requires a comprehensive understanding of complicated procedural, evidentiary, and substantive rules. Finding an experienced and skilled wrongful death attorney is crucial to securing a favorable outcome in these cases.
A simple internet search can return results for thousands of attorneys. However, given the high stakes, it is essential that claimants sort through the maze of lawyers and find the best wrongful death attorney for their case. We’ll now touch on some qualities to look for in a Portland wrongful death lawyer.
Broadly speaking, all attorneys graduate from law school with similar legal education. But that does not mean every lawyer is equally adept at handling every type of case.
In reality, each lawyer possesses vastly different skills that result from their training, background, and inherent personality traits. Experience matters in wrongful death claims, and choosing a lawyer practiced in the area of wrongful death can drastically increase the likelihood of success.
Those who experience the wrongful death of a loved one often face emotional and mental health struggles. A wrongful death attorney with genuine compassion and concern allows the client to focus on their recovery with the peace of mind that their attorney will represent their best interests.
In conjunction with the facts and circumstances of the case, the outcome of a wrongful death lawsuit hinges on the attorney’s dedication, precision, and competence. Maine’s wrongful death statute places significant burdens on claimants. For example, there are strict deadlines for filing a claim. If you miss these, your case will likely be thrown out. A skilled attorney with an eye for detail is crucial to securing a favorable outcome.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Maine? Under Maine’s wrongful death statute, only the personal representative or special administrator of the decedent’s estate can file a wrongful death claim. In some cases, the decedent will designate a personal representative. However, the court will appoint the decedent’s personal representative if a valid will does not exist or designate a representative.
Although the personal representative files the Maine wrongful death lawsuit, the damages go to the decedent’s beneficiaries. Generally, beneficiaries of a wrongful death lawsuit include the decedent’s spouse, children, parents, and other qualifying family members.
How long do wrongful death cases take? Like any other personal injury lawsuit, the time it takes to settle a wrongful death claim depends on the distinct facts of the case. Some claims may resolve quickly, within months, whereas more complex cases can take one to four years.
Insurers often use the prospect of a quick settlement as a tactic to reduce their obligation. While a quick settlement might be appealing, it may leave the wrongful death claimant with inadequate compensation. An experienced attorney can work with clients to determine the best and most efficient way to maximize compensation in their wrongful death lawsuit.
How much is the average wrongful death settlement? Wrongful death lawsuits and settlements are exceptionally fact-specific, and therefore, wrongful death settlements vary significantly.
Studies of wrongful death lawsuits note great variation in results. While placing a dollar amount on human life may seem impossible, it is a necessary aspect of most wrongful death claims. Some factors that impact a wrongful death settlement amount include:
Generally, claims for wrongful death damages must be substantiated by evidence. In these cases, the personal representative may seek compensation on behalf of the decedent’s survivors for the following:
A skilled attorney can help wrongful death claimants maximize compensation following the death of their loved one.
Contact a Portland wrongful death attorney today. If you recently lost a loved one in a motor vehicle collision or any other type of preventable accident, your family may be entitled to significant monetary compensation.
At Mann Law, we recognize that no amount of money will bring your loved one back or reverse the pain you’ve already experienced. However, bringing a successful claim can provide your family with meaningful compensation that will ensure you do not suffer financial burdens in addition to what you’ve already been through.
Our dedicated Portland wrongful death lawyers have nearly 20 years of experience helping grieving families pursue the compensation they need, deserve, and are entitled to.
To learn more and schedule a free consultation today, contact us by phone or online. We take cases on a contingency basis, meaning we will not collect any fees unless we can connect you with compensation.
