If your loved one passed away in an incident that was another party’s fault, you’re likely experiencing unimaginable grief and the need to make complex decisions you never anticipated. You may also wonder about how to hold the party responsible for your loss accountable for their negligence. You don’t have to find the answers on your own. The Mississippi wrongful death lawyers at Mama Justice – MW Law Firm are here to support you in pursuing justice, accountability, and financial compensation from those responsible for your loss.
At Mama Justice, our sympathetic legal team provides comprehensive legal support to grieving families throughout Northeastern Mississippi. We understand no amount of money can make up for your loss, but a successful wrongful death claim can provide the money you need to cover unexpected expenses and offer a measure of closure as you rebuild your life and focus on the future.
Our commitment to justice is reflected not only in our name. Our 400+ five-star Google reviews from satisfied clients demonstrate our dedication to fighting for results that bring you peace during this tragic time.
We’re here when you need us, and past clients can confirm that. D.R. writes, “Thank you. Mama Justice, for all that you’ve done for my family. I appreciate your help and all you’ve done. Mama Justice gets the job done.”
Call or contact us today to arrange a free consultation with a wrongful death lawyer in Mississippi.
What Qualifies as a Wrongful Death in Mississippi?
Under Mississippi personal injury law, a wrongful death is any death caused by a wrongful or negligent act, omission, or unsafe product that would have warranted a personal injury claim for the victim if they had lived.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
Only certain people can file a wrongful death claim in Mississippi. Eligible parties include:
- The personal representative of the deceased’s estate
- The deceased person’s spouse
- Children
- Parents (including adoptive parents)
- Siblings, in some cases
Depending on the circumstances, all the above family members may be entitled to recover damages in a wrongful death case, but you can only file one wrongful death claim in Mississippi. However, all eligible family members can join the lawsuit once it’s filed.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Some of the most common causes of wrongful death in Mississippi include:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Unsafe property
- Slip and fall
- Defective products
- Criminal acts
No matter how the death occurred, you could have a valid legal claim if another person’s negligence caused your loss. A Mississippi wrongful death attorney can review your case and explain your options for seeking compensation.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Compensation for wrongful death aims to address both the financial losses and emotional suffering experienced by surviving family members due to the death of their loved one. A successful claim can include money for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Medical expenses incurred before your family member’s death
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of guidance
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional distress
Understanding Mississippi’s Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations
Under Mississippi law, you generally have three years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit if based on negligence. However, deaths caused by an intentional act like homicide or assault have a much shorter deadline — just one year. Failing to file after the time limit can limit your ability to recover compensation.
It’s crucial to take care of yourself during this tragic time, but it’s also important to remember that the wrongful death lawsuit process takes time. Like all personal injury claims, you will need compelling evidence to support your case. Once you hire legal counsel, they can begin a thorough investigation, allowing you to mourn in peace.
How a Mississippi Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help
Facing the challenges of pursuing a wrongful death claim alone can be overwhelming. A wrongful death lawyer can help with every stage of the claims process, including:
- Investigating the cause of death
- Identifying all liable parties
- Determining available insurance coverage
- Gathering clear and convincing evidence to support your wrongful death case
- Calculating wrongful death damages for your case
- Filing your claim by the applicable deadline
- Handling all communications with the insurance company
- Negotiating aggressively for a full and fair settlement
- Take your case to trial if the insurer refuses to make a satisfactory settlement offer
At Mama Justice, our experienced attorneys are skilled negotiators and seasoned trial lawyers with experience in various legal settings across the South. We combine tough legal representation with compassionate client care so you feel supported throughout your case.
What to Expect During the Legal Process
The wrongful death claims process in Mississippi generally follows these key steps:
- Talk to a lawyer – At Mama Justice, we offer initial consultations at no charge. We’ll listen to your story, review your case, and inform you of your legal options for seeking justice.
- Investigation – You need substantive evidence to support wrongful death claims. Our legal team can obtain the police report, medical records, witness statements, expert testimony, and other relevant evidence to build your case.
- File a claim – Our team will submit all legal paperwork and notify the responsible parties once your case is ready to pursue.
- Negotiation – Engaging in settlement discussions with insurance companies and defense counsel can be a back-and-forth process. We fight for a settlement that reflects the full extent of your losses.
- Trial (if necessary) – Our law firm prepares every case like it’s going to trial. If insurers won’t provide just compensation through a settlement, we’ll take your case to the courtroom and fight like a mother for the money you deserve.
Get Help from a Mississippi Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful act, you need a fierce legal advocate to stand up for your family. Mama Justice can help. Our Mississippi wrongful death lawyers are compassionate, understanding, and prepared to go to battle for you. Contact us today for your free consultation.