Kinston Wrongful Death Lawyer
When a Loved One Is Lost, Our Team Fights for Your Family's Future
Losing a family member is an unimaginable tragedy. When that loss is caused by someone else's negligence, the grief is often compounded by anger and confusion. In these devastating moments, you should not have to carry the legal burden alone.
At Pittman Agner, we understand that your focus needs to be on healing with your family. That is why we make your case our mission. We provide more than just a lawyer; we provide an entire legal team dedicated to shouldering the complexities of a wrongful death claim so you can focus on what matters most.
Call Pittman Agner today at (919) 893-0090 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our wrongful death attorney in Goldsboro.
The Pittman Agner Team Advantage in Wrongful Death Cases
Wrongful death claims are among the most complex and emotionally taxing cases in the legal system. They require a unique combination of compassionate counsel and assertive, relentless advocacy. This is where our team-based approach provides a distinct advantage for the families we represent.
- Comprehensive Investigation: Our team mobilizes to conduct a thorough and immediate investigation into the circumstances of your loved one's death. By working collaboratively, we can preserve critical evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build an irrefutable case establishing liability.
- Deeper Strategic Insight: With multiple attorneys reviewing your case, we identify every potential source of liability and every category of compensation your family is entitled to. This collective experience ensures that no detail is overlooked in our pursuit of justice.
- Unwavering Support: Grieving families deserve constant and compassionate support. Our team structure ensures that someone is always available to answer your questions and provide updates. You will have a dedicated group of professionals who are personally invested in your family's well-being.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in North Carolina
A wrongful death lawsuit is appropriate whenever another party's negligence or wrongful act results in a fatality. Our team has the experience to handle claims arising from a wide variety of tragic circumstances, including:
- Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace accidents and unsafe work conditions
- Defective products
- Premises liability incidents, such as slip and falls or negligent security
- Violent acts and assaults
Building Your Wrongful Death Claim: The Evidence We Gather
A successful wrongful death claim depends on proving that another party's negligence directly caused your loved one's death. Our team-based approach allows us to be meticulous and swift in gathering the crucial evidence needed to build a powerful case. This often includes:
- Police or Incident Reports: These official reports provide a foundational account of what happened.
- Medical Records and the Death Certificate: These documents establish the extent of the injuries and the official cause of death.
- Witness Statements and Expert Testimony: We identify and interview eyewitnesses. We also collaborate with medical experts, accident reconstructionists, and financial experts to provide testimony that supports your claim.
- Financial Documents: To prove the full extent of your family's loss, we gather evidence of the deceased's income, benefits, and other financial contributions.
The Four Elements of a Wrongful Death Claim
To win a wrongful death case in North Carolina, our legal team must prove four specific elements:
- Duty of Care: The defendant owed your loved one a legal duty to act with reasonable care. For example, all drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely.
- Breach of Duty: The defendant violated that duty through a negligent or wrongful act.
- Causation: This breach of duty was the direct cause of your loved one's death.
- Damages: The death resulted in quantifiable damages, such as lost income and funeral expenses, for the surviving family members.
Our Mission: Securing Justice & Financial Stability for Your Family
While no amount of money can replace your loved one, a successful wrongful death claim can provide the financial stability your family needs to move forward and hold the responsible parties accountable. Our mission is to secure the maximum compensation available under North Carolina law, including damages for:
- Medical expenses incurred before your loved one's passing
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of the deceased's income, benefits, and future earnings
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and protection
- The pain and suffering your loved one endured
Wrongful Death Lawsuits vs. Criminal Charges
It is important to understand that a wrongful death lawsuit is a civil action, which is entirely separate from any criminal charges the state may file. A criminal case is brought by a prosecutor and aims to punish the offender with penalties like jail time or fines. A civil wrongful death claim is brought by the family's representative to secure financial compensation for the family's losses. The two cases can proceed at the same time, and the outcome of one does not necessarily determine the outcome of the other.
FAQs About Wrongful Death Cases
What is considered a wrongful death in North Carolina?
A wrongful death is one that is caused by the "wrongful act, neglect, or default of another." Essentially, if the person who passed away could have filed a personal injury claim had they survived, the family can likely file a wrongful death claim.
Who is eligible to file a wrongful death claim?
In North Carolina, the claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased's estate. This person is often named in a will, but if not, the court will appoint someone. The compensation recovered is for the benefit of the surviving family members, such as the spouse, children, and parents.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit?
The statute of limitations in North Carolina is two years from the date of death. It is crucial to act quickly to ensure your right to seek justice is protected.
Contact Our Kinston Wrongful Death Attorneys Today
If you are facing the unimaginable loss of a loved one due to wrongful death, Pittman Agner is here to provide the support, guidance, and advocacy you need. Our dedicated legal team is ready to evaluate your situation and help you understand your rights. Don't navigate this difficult time alone. Call us today to take the first step towards securing the compensation and justice your family deserves.
Contact us for a free consultation today to discuss your needs with a compassionate wrongful death lawyer in Kinston.