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Wrongful Death

Wrongful Death Attorney in Kent

Understanding Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Washington State

In Washington, a wrongful death is defined as a death arising from the "wrongful act, neglect, or default of another." A wrongful death claim is in many ways similar to a personal injury claim with the main difference being that the plaintiff has died, requiring the case to be filed on the decedent's behalf by their surviving family.

Wrongful death cases are civil lawsuits meant to compensate the decedent's family for losses related to their loved one's death. Additionally, wrongful death cases may be filed even if a case related to the death is already being tried in a criminal court.

The wrongful death of a loved one caused by the negligent actions of another can leave huge emotional and financial scars. This is especially true when the loved one was financially responsible for supporting a family. Our Kent wrongful death lawyer understands the emotional and financial devastation caused when a loved one is killed due to someone else’s negligent actions. With years of legal experience, we provide families with dedicated and tenacious representation and guidance during this very emotional period, while we seek to hold those responsible for the wrongful death accountable their actions.

Call our Kent wrongful death attorneys today at (253) 850-6411 and schedule a free consultation!

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Washington?

In the State of Washington, the legislature has adopted a statute that provides two classifications or levels governing who is entitled to recover in the event of a wrongful death caused by the negligent or intentional act of another:

  • The first classification pertains to the spouse and children (including adopted children and step children) of the decedent, who are automatically entitled to bring a lawsuit (this does not mean that they will automatically be awarded damages; liability must first be proven).
  • The second classification generally consists of parents and siblings of the deceased who were financially dependent upon the decedent.

The exception in the second classification is that a parent may bring a lawsuit for the wrongful death of a child if the child is a minor. In this circumstance, parents do not have to show financial dependence. If a couple has a registered domestic partnership, the surviving partner may be entitled to bring a wrongful death action. Surviving parents of an adult child who is unmarried and leaves no children at the time of death may also recover for the loss of their son or daughter.

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