Recovering from Loss through Knowledge—Questions for Your Wrongful Death Lawyer

Losing a loved one unexpectedly can be one of the most difficult challenges that any individual or family has to face. It's even more heartbreaking when it feels as though the loss was preventable or inappropriately caused by the actions of another. In those times, it's important that you have a strong advocate to fight for your rights. Your wrongful death attorney can be that advocate.

Before the fight begins, however, it's crucial that you have a full understanding of the proceedings and what will be expected of you. Asking the right questions can help guide you along that path, and below you'll find a guide to some questions for a wrongful death lawyer that you should make sure to have answered as your case proceeds.

Ask about Potential Future Earnings

Though the loss of a loved one can never be measured in dollars and cents, your wrongful death lawsuit is designed to provide you with at least some financial relief from the hardship that was thrust upon you. The person you've lost may have been earning a living that you relied on that has now disappeared, and securing it can be absolutely vital.

Your attorney will be able to work with you to determine the potential future earnings of the deceased. Having this number in mind will allow you to ask for reasonable damages and can help demonstrate the gravity of your loss.

Ask about a Medical Professional's History

If your loved one was lost while he or she was under the care of a medical professional, it may be possible that malpractice occurred. If you have suspicions about a doctor or other medical staff, information from their past may be the best predictor of their future performance.

Be sure to ask your lawyer about previous malpractice cases involving the care providers from your case. Discovering previous negligence may make it easier for a court to believe mistakes were made in your case, and it may allow you the closure and peace of mind you desire.

Ask about Outside Experts

Ultimately, the opinion of the court tends to be most convincingly swayed by neutral experts who identify a serious concern in a case. You should be sure to ask your lawyer about his or her experience in engaging these experts and whether they have any long-term relationships that may assist you. Having the right support system is a vital part of any case, and if you ask for help, you will find it.

Contact a wrongful death lawyer from a firm like Shaevitz Shaevitz & Kotzamanis to get started with your case.