Russell & Hill, PLLC

How do wrongful death cases arise?

Wrongful death claims arise after a situation in which a person who would otherwise have been able to file a valid personal injury claim is killed as a result of the actions of somebody else. At Russell & Hill, PLLC, we have experience helping family members who have lost loved ones due to the following:

Who can file a wrongful death claim?

State laws regulate who is allowed to file wrongful death claims. In general, beneficiaries of the deceased are typically the ones responsible for filing a wrongful death lawsuit. In states throughout the Pacific Northwest, the following parties generally are allowed to file these claims:

  • The personal representative of the deceased’s estate
  • The spouse or domestic partner of the deceased
  • The children or stepchildren of the deceased

If a deceased person has no spouse, domestic partner, or child, then it may be possible for the deceased’s parents or siblings to file a wrongful death claim.

How long do family members have to file a wrongful death lawsuit?

State law regulates how long representatives of an estate or family members have to file wrongful death lawsuits in civil court. In both Washington and Oregon, the wrongful death statute of limitations is typically three years from the date of the deceased person’s final injury. There are circumstances where this date may be different. It is crucial that family members work with an attorney as soon as possible to get started with their wrongful death claim. Given the potential complexity of wrongful death cases, families can expect pushback from insurance carriers and at-fault parties in these cases, and that may take some time to litigate.

Contact our wrongful death attorneys for help today

If you have lost somebody you love due to the careless or negligent actions of somebody else, contact an attorney as soon as possible. At Russell & Hill, PLLC, we have the resources and legal expertise necessary to help you through this entire process. We will investigate the cause of your loved one’s death so we can secure the closure and compensation you are entitled to. When you need a wrongful death attorney anywhere in the Pacific Northwest, you can contact us for a free consultation of your case by clicking here or calling 425-212-9165.

Losing a loved one is incredibly difficult. If the careless or negligent actions of another individual, business, or entity are responsible for the death of your loved one, you should seek legal assistance as soon as possible. At Russell & Hill, PLLC, we pledge to use our resources and legal expertise to help you get through this difficult time. Our compassionate wrongful death attorneys understand that you are searching for both justice and closure. Our team will work diligently to hold the negligent party responsible for their actions and secure any compensation to which your family may be entitled.

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