As heartbreaking as the death of a loved one is, the loss of a family member can also have wide-ranging financial effects. Lost wages, extensive medical bills and funeral expenses can make it difficult for your family to stay afloat.
The devastating financial consequences of a death caused by another’s negligence or recklessness are exactly what Illinois’ wrongful death laws are intended to address. At The Law Offices of Goldfine & Bowles, P.C., our team of attorneys has more than five decades of experience providing knowledgeable and compassionate representation to our clients. Serving the Peoria area, our lawyers can help you obtain full compensation following a wrongful death caused through negligence or an intentional wrongful act.
How Damages Are Defined In An Illinois Wrongful Death Case
Under Illinois’ Wrongful Death Act, the next of kin of a person who dies through the negligence or wrongful act of another is allowed to sue to recover monetary damages from the party or parties responsible for the death. These damages can include:
- Lost financial support, including the total value of the future wages that your loved one would have earned
- Loss of companionship or care, including the lost instruction and guidance to the deceased’s children and the loss of sexual consortium experienced by a surviving spouse
- Grief and mental suffering (as determined by a jury)
Of course, every lawsuit is different, and it can be difficult to properly define and seek full damages following a wrongful death. Choosing the right lawyer to represent you can help you understand what is possible to recover in a wrongful death suit, and The Law Offices of Goldfine & Bowles, P.C., can provide the skilled and knowledgeable guidance you need to move forward.
What Do You Need To Do To Maximize Your Chances Of Recovering Your Full Damages?
Filing a timely lawsuit within Illinois’ two-year statute of limitations is a critical first step in preserving your chance of recovering damages in a wrongful death suit. Correctly defining your damages in your court pleadings — including lost wages, lost emotional support and mental suffering — is also important in ensuring that you maximize your chances of proper compensation.
If you have recently suffered the loss of a family member due to another’s negligence or wrongful act, engaging an attorney experienced with wrongful death lawsuits to represent you can help safeguard your legal rights and maximize your chances of recovery. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Goldfine & Bowles, P.C., have the resources and knowledge to help you. Speak with one of our lawyers today by calling 309-673-5144 or contacting us online.