Losing a loved one is an unimaginable tragedy. Shipman & Wright is here to support you through this difficult time with compassionate and determined legal representation. Our Goldsboro wrongful death attorneys have extensive experience and a deep commitment to securing justice and fair compensation for families affected by the loss of a loved one. We understand the emotional and financial impacts of your situation, and we are prepared to handle your case with the sensitivity and dedication it deserves. Contact us to discover how our Goldsboro wrongful death lawyer can help you find closure and make sure that those responsible are held accountable.
The Advantages of Choosing Shipman & Wright for Your Goldsboro Wrongful Death Claim
Choosing Shipman & Wright in your Goldsboro wrongful death claim offers several distinct advantages that can significantly impact the outcome of your case:
- Experienced Legal Team: At Shipman & Wright, our Goldsboro wrongful death attorneys bring decades of collective experience in handling wrongful death claims. Founded in 1980, our firm understands the nuances of North Carolina wrongful death law and has the skills to apply this knowledge to benefit our clients.
- Personalized Approach: We understand that each wrongful death claim is deeply personal and affects each family differently. Our approach is to tailor our legal strategies to the specific needs and circumstances of your case.
- Proven Track Record: Our firm has a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients. Whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom advocacy, we strive to obtain the maximum compensation possible.
- No Upfront Costs: Shipman & Wright offers representation on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront fees, and our payment is contingent upon securing compensation for you.
The Importance of Hiring an Attorney for a Goldsboro Wrongful Death Claim
Hiring a personal injury attorney for a Goldsboro wrongful death claim is essential to make sure your rights are protected. Here’s how our wrongful death attorneys in Goldsboro will assist you:
- Handling Legal Procedure: The legal process for a wrongful death claim can be complex and daunting, involving multiple stages such as filing the claim, conducting discovery, negotiating settlements, and possibly going to trial. Our attorneys will skillfully manage these processes and make sure your claim is handled efficiently and effectively.
- Maximizing Your Compensation: Our legal team can accurately assess the full extent of damages associated with the wrongful death, including medical costs, funeral expenses, loss of income and benefits, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering and loss of companionship.
- Providing Objective Opinions: Dealing with the loss of a loved one can be emotionally overwhelming, potentially clouding your judgment when making critical decisions about your case. Our Goldsboro wrongful death lawyer will provide an objective perspective so you can make reasoned, informed decisions on your behalf.
- Representing Your Interests in Court: If a settlement cannot be reached, our trial attorneys will represent you in court, advocating on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.
Damages in a Goldsboro Wrongful Death Claim
In Goldsboro, families seeking compensation through a wrongful death claim can pursue several types of damages under North Carolina General Statutes § 28A-18-2. These damages are intended to cover both the tangible and intangible losses resulting from the untimely death of a loved one. Here’s a detailed look at the types of damages typically available in a Goldsboro wrongful death claim:
Economic Damages include medical expenses for medical costs incurred due to the final illness or injury of the deceased before death. They may include the costs associated with funeral services and the burial or cremation of the deceased. Also, any loss of income or benefits the deceased would reasonably have been expected to earn if they had lived.
Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, including compensation for the pain and suffering experienced by the deceased prior to death. Loss of companionship damages awards compensation for the loss of love, companionship, comfort, guidance, and protection that the deceased would have provided to their family members. Emotional distress damages recognize the mental anguish and emotional distress suffered by the family members due to the unexpected loss.
Distribution of Damages in a Goldsboro Wrongful Death Claim
In Goldsboro, the distribution of damages awarded in wrongful death claims is primarily governed by the North Carolina Intestate Succession Act (North Carolina General Statutes § 29). When there is no will, the estate of the deceased is distributed as follows: if the deceased is survived by a spouse and children, the spouse receives a specified share of the estate, with the remaining assets divided equally among the children. If there are no children or grandchildren, the surviving spouse is typically entitled to receive the entire estate. If there is no surviving spouse, the estate is distributed equally among the children. In cases where there is neither a spouse nor children, the estate is allocated to other relatives such as parents, siblings, or further extended family according to the statute. If the deceased left a will, the distribution of damages must follow the will, which may assign different proportions of the estate to various beneficiaries. A will allows for a more personalized allocation of the estate, reflecting the specific wishes of the deceased.
Contact Our Goldsboro Wrongful Death Attorneys Today
If you are dealing with the heartbreaking loss of a loved one, reach out to Shipman & Wright today without delay. We understand the emotional and financial impact of your loss and are committed to guiding you through the legal process with care and professionalism. Our team is ready to provide the support and advocacy you need during this difficult time. Reach out to our wrongful death lawyers in Goldsboro to schedule a free consultation, where we can review the details of your case, explain your legal options, and outline the best steps forward to seek justice and compensation. Let us help you achieve the closure and financial security you deserve. Call now to get started. Contact Shipman & Wright today to discuss your case with our experienced team of Goldsboro wrongful death attorneys.