Greenfield, IN Wrongful Death Lawyer

Losing a loved one is one of the most heartbreaking experiences anyone can endure. The pain and sorrow that follow are often compounded when the death is caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions. At Stephenson Rife, we understand the impact this loss has on your life. We’re here to offer more than just legal expertise—we’re here to support you with compassion and empathy through this challenging time.

When you contact us, you’re not just another case file; you’re a family seeking answers and accountability. We treat each of our clients with respect and personalized attention, ensuring that your loved one’s story is heard and their legacy honored.

Our goal is to help you secure the compensation you need to cover funeral expenses, lost income, and other damages. This allows you to focus on healing and remembering the joy your loved one brought into your life.

What Is Wrongful Death?

Losing someone you love is a profound and deeply personal tragedy. In legal terms, a “wrongful death” occurs when someone’s death is caused by the negligent, careless, or intentional actions of another person or entity. This definition includes a wide range of tragic scenarios—from a distracted driver causing a fatal car accident to a healthcare professional’s medical error that leads to a patient’s untimely death.

In Indiana, the law recognizes the tremendous impact of such a loss and provides a pathway for survivors to seek justice and financial compensation. Wrongful death claims can be complex, involving detailed investigations and legal nuances, but their core purpose is simple: to hold responsible parties accountable and to help the bereaved find a measure of closure and financial stability in the wake of their loss.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Greenfield, Indiana?

The eligibility to file varies depending on whether the deceased, also known as the decedent, was an adult or a child.

Wrongful Death of an Adult

In Indiana, a wrongful death claim for an adult decedent can only be filed by a personal representative. The personal representative is typically the executor designated in the will. If no will exists, a court will appoint someone to serve in this capacity.

While only the personal representative can formally file the lawsuit, they do so on behalf of the deceased’s surviving family members or their estate. For example, if the deceased was married or had children at the time of their death, the law allows the surviving spouse and children to recover damages. However, it is the responsibility of the personal representative to pursue the claim for their benefit. Our lawyers can provide further guidance on Indiana’s regulations regarding filing a wrongful death lawsuit as a surviving family member.

Wrongful Death of a Child

The process differs slightly for the wrongful death of a child. In Indiana, a child is defined as an unmarried individual under 20 years of age or under 23 if they were enrolled in a postsecondary educational institution.

In these cases, the wrongful death claim can be filed by one or both parents of the child. If the parents are divorced, the parent who had legal custody is entitled to file the claim. Additionally, if the child’s parents are deceased or have lost parental rights, the child’s legal guardian has the right to file the claim.

Potential Damages in a Wrongful Death Case

Pursuing a wrongful death claim can help reduce some of the financial burdens of your loss and provide a sense of justice and closure. Here are some damages you can get in a wrongful death case.

• Medical Expenses: If your loved one received medical treatment before passing, these costs can be substantial. Wrongful death claims can help recover these expenses.
• Funeral and Burial Costs: Funerals are often costly. The burden of these expenses should not fall entirely on grieving families.
• Lost Wages and Benefits: Your loved one’s income may have been crucial to your family’s financial stability. This damage can help replace the lost income and benefits, ensuring your family’s needs are met.
• Loss of Companionship: The absence of your loved one’s presence, their companionship, and the emotional support they provided is irreplaceable. This type of damage recognizes that void.
• Pain and Suffering: Both the pain your loved one may have experienced before passing and the emotional suffering your family endures can be considered in these damages.
• Loss of Parental Guidance: For children, the loss of a parent means losing a mentor, a guide, and a source of unconditional love. Compensation can help address the gap left in their lives.

What Is the Indiana Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Claims?

In Indiana, you have a two-year window from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. This statute of limitations also applies to cases involving the death of a child or if there is an ongoing criminal case related to the death.

Missing this deadline means forfeiting the chance to seek compensation and hold the responsible party accountable for the death of your loved one.

Why Choose Stephenson Rife?

Here’s why so many families in Greenfield trust us during their most difficult times:

Experience and Expertise

With years of experience handling wrongful death cases in Greenfield and around Indiana, we have the legal knowledge and skills necessary to advocate for your rights. Our team has successfully represented numerous families, securing the compensation they needed to begin the healing process. We understand the intricacies of Indiana wrongful death law, and we use this expertise to build a strong case for you.

Proven Results

Our track record speaks for itself. We have a history of obtaining significant settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our success is built on thorough preparation, strategic thinking, and an unwavering dedication to our clients’ best interests.

Personalized Attention

When you work with Stephenson Rife, you’re not just another case number. We take the time to get to know you, understand your unique situation, and tailor our approach to meet your specific needs. Our compassionate lawyers will listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide support every step of the way.

Compassionate Advocacy

We know that no amount of money can bring your loved one back, but a successful wrongful death claim can provide financial relief and a sense of justice. Our team will fight for your rights with compassion and determination. We handle all the legal complexities so you can focus on healing and remembering your loved one.

How We Can Help with Your Case

Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. Here’s how we can help:

• Listening to Your Story: Every case is unique, and we believe in the importance of listening to your story. We take the time to understand the circumstances surrounding your loss and the impact it has had on your family. By truly hearing your concerns and needs, we can tailor our approach to provide the best possible support.
• Comprehensive Investigation: Our team conducts a thorough investigation to gather all necessary evidence to support your wrongful death claim. We collaborate with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals to build a strong case. This approach ensures we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice for your loved one.
• Maximizing Compensation: We will help secure the maximum compensation for your family. This includes covering funeral expenses, lost wages, medical bills, and compensation for emotional pain and suffering. Our goal is to reduce the financial burden so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
• Trial-Ready Representation: While many wrongful death claims are settled out of court, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This rigorous preparation ensures that we are ready to present a compelling case before a judge and jury if necessary.

Contact Our Greenfield Wrongful Death Attorneys Today

Losing a loved one is devastating. We understand that no amount of legal action can ever truly compensate for such a loss. At Stephenson Rife, our primary goal is to provide you with the support, compassion, and skilled representation you need during this difficult time.

We believe that justice and accountability can bring a sense of closure and help you begin to heal. Our Greenfield, IN wrongful death lawyers will stand by your side, offering a shoulder to lean on and guiding you through every step of the legal process.