When someone loses a loved one due to a wrongful death, it can feel like the world has turned upside down. The suddenness of such a loss brings confusion, sadness, and worry. If you find yourself in this situation, know that you are not alone. At this moment, you may be overwhelmed by emotions and unsure of what steps to take. Understanding what to do after a wrongful death can help bring clarity to the situation. We are here to help guide you through these difficult times and assist you in seeking justice for your loved one. At, Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
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Free Consultation Download PDFWhat Is a Wrongful Death and Why Does It Matter
A wrongful death occurs when someone dies because of another person’s negligence, intentional harm, or wrongful act. This could involve car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, or even criminal behavior. While no amount of money can bring back your loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim may provide the financial support needed to cover funeral costs, lost wages, and other damages. It also serves as a means of holding the responsible party accountable for their actions.
Grieving and Finding Support
During this time of loss, it is natural to grieve, and there is no one way to mourn. Each person reacts differently to the death of a loved one. In the days and weeks following a wrongful death, you may feel a mix of anger, sadness, and confusion. These feelings are part of the grieving process, and it is important to give yourself space to experience them. If possible, lean on your family, friends, and professional counselors for support. Surrounding yourself with a strong support network can make a significant difference in your emotional healing.
Seek Medical and Legal Assistance
While it may seem difficult to focus on anything other than your grief, there are some immediate actions you should take to protect your rights and your family’s future. The first step after a wrongful death is to seek legal help. A wrongful death lawyer will be able to help you understand your rights, evaluate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death, and guide you in pursuing a claim against the responsible party.
If your loved one’s death was caused by an accident, medical malpractice, or any other situation where another party is at fault, it is crucial to contact an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner you reach out, the more time you give the lawyer to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and strengthen your case.
Gathering Evidence and Information
To build a strong wrongful death case, gathering evidence is a critical step. Start by collecting all the information related to the incident. This includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any other documentation that may be relevant. If the death was caused by an accident, take photos of the scene if possible. Document the details of what happened as clearly and thoroughly as you can. This information will help your attorney investigate the circumstances surrounding the death and build a compelling case.
It may also be helpful to keep a journal of your emotions and daily life after the loss. This can serve as a record of how the death has affected your life, which can be useful during legal proceedings.
Understanding the Legal Process
Once you have an attorney on your side, they will begin reviewing the facts of the case and advising you on the next steps. In Colorado, there is a statute of limitations on wrongful death cases, meaning there is a deadline by which you must file a claim. This is another reason why it is important to act quickly. Your attorney will help you meet the deadlines and ensure that your case is handled correctly.
In some cases, wrongful death claims are settled outside of court through negotiations. However, if the responsible party or their insurance company is unwilling to settle fairly, your case may go to trial. Regardless of how the case proceeds, your lawyer will be with you every step of the way, helping you understand your options and what to expect during the legal process.
Bridgette Carabajal
I've had the pleasure of working with Mr. Hanchey on two occasions, and each interaction has been nothing short of exceptional. His professional demeanor, coupled with the outstanding support from his staff significantly alleviated any anxieties I had. I am thoroughly satisfied with the outcomes achieved. Should the need for legal representation arise in the future, Mr. Hanchey will undoubtedly be my first choice.
Lucas Garcia
Mark Hanchey has been excellent. I spoke with him last minute before my court date. He still showed up to court with me and was very caring and helped me before I had even officially hired him. I felt like he cared about me and my case. He knows his craft very well and you can tell that the judge and other attorneys respect him when he is in court. He is also very kind. I recommend him to anyone. An excellent attorney.
Renee Braucht
I had an amazing experience with the Hanchey Law Firm! Mr. Hanchey got me the absolute best result I could have imagined for my case. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve heard, “wow, you must have had a really good lawyer!” when discussing the result. I live far from Colorado Springs, but I will forever make the trip for this firm when I need them! Highly recommend!
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I have needed to use a lawyer a couple of times over the past several years and have used Mark Hanchey. He is a very down to earth person who has always treated me with dignity and has always been straight forward. His staff has also been professional and friendly. Each time I used Mark Hanchey the result was a positive one. I also think his fees are reasonable. I cant say enough good about Mark Hanchey.
Financial and Emotional Support
The emotional toll of a wrongful death is significant, but the financial burden can also be overwhelming. The cost of funeral expenses, medical bills, and the loss of a loved one’s income can quickly add up. A wrongful death claim may be able to provide compensation for these costs. Additionally, if the deceased was the primary breadwinner in your family, this compensation can help replace the income that has been lost due to the tragic death.
The amount of compensation available depends on several factors, such as the circumstances surrounding the death and the extent of the damages suffered by the surviving family members. Your attorney will work with you to determine what compensation you may be entitled to, and they will help ensure that the responsible party is held accountable.
The Importance of Timely Action
Taking action quickly after a wrongful death is crucial. In Colorado, there is a statute of limitations that sets a time limit for filing a wrongful death claim. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue legal action. This is why it’s important to reach out to an attorney as soon as possible after the death of your loved one. By acting promptly, you ensure that the necessary steps are taken to preserve evidence, secure witness statements, and meet any legal deadlines that may be involved in your case. Time can be a critical factor, so don’t wait too long to get the legal help you need.
Navigating Insurance and Settlement Offers
Once you’ve initiated the legal process, it’s likely that you will encounter insurance companies representing the party responsible for the death. These companies may offer a settlement, but it’s important to approach these offers with caution. Insurance companies are often more concerned with minimizing their payout than providing a fair settlement. An attorney can help you assess any settlement offers and determine if they are reasonable or if it’s in your best interest to take the case to court. Having legal representation ensures that you are not pressured into accepting a low offer and that your rights are protected.
At the Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey, we understand the emotional and financial challenges that come with a wrongful death. Losing a loved one is one of the hardest experiences anyone can go through, and we are here to provide the support and guidance you need during this difficult time. We take pride in offering compassionate legal services and are dedicated to fighting for justice for you and your family.
Our team will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. We will investigate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death, gather the necessary evidence, and take the necessary legal steps to pursue a successful claim. You don’t have to face this journey alone. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the legal system while you focus on healing.
If you are ready to take the next step and want to discuss your wrongful death case, contact us at the Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey today. We are here to listen, offer support, and guide you through the legal process to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.