A parent’s death can be devastating, even more so if it was preventable. When a parent is killed as a result of negligence, the child might have some rights that allow them to be compensated for the parent’s death. The surviving spouse will want to speak with a lawyer about wrongful death claims and what it could mean for their child.
The spouse of the deceased can file a wrongful death claim stating the negligence that occurred to cause the death. In most cases, they’ll be entitled to compensation for medical bills and other expenses directly related to the death. Along with this, they might be able to obtain compensation to help cover the family’s lost income.
The child, however, may be entitled to further compensation. The child will need to be the son or daughter of the deceased legally. If the child was born outside of marriage, there must be a court order in place for child support for them to be able to obtain money under a wrongful death claim for the father. In all cases involving the wrongful death of the biological mother, the child will be able to be a part of the claim.
If a child is part of the wrongful death claim, they can claim damages above the ones mentioned previously. One of the main types of compensation they can ask for, or the surviving spouse can ask for on their behalf, will be for the loss of parental companionship, guidance, and instruction. They might also be able to obtain compensation for mental pain and suffering.
Determining exactly how much parental companionship can be worth is often challenging. When a minor is involved as a surviving relative after a wrongful death claim, it’s going to be a good idea for the surviving parent or the child’s guardian to speak with a lawyer about wrongful death claims and how it could impact the child. This information might be vital and can allow them to help ensure the child receives the monetary support they’ll need as they grow up. For more information on a potential claim for a wrongful death or to speak with a lawyer quickly, visit Northfloridaautoaccidentlawyer.com today.
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