Wrongful Death
Handling wrongful death cases throughout the state of Georgia
The death of a family member is always tragic, but when the death is due to another person's negligence or intentional misconduct, the emotional cost seems even greater. In these situations, the laws of Georgia provide the victim's family with recourse for their tragic loss.
With regard to respect for the value of human life, Georgia's wrongful death statute is one of the best in the United States. In Georgia, the measure of damages for wrongful death is the full value of the life of the deceased. The damages include those that are tangible (e.g., projected lifetime income, with no deduction for living expenses or income taxes, value of services, etc.) and intangible, such as the enjoyment of the experience of living. The full value of the life is determined solely by the enlightened conscience of an impartial jury. Georgia does not impose a statutory formula or arbitrary limit on the damages awarded in a wrongful death case.
Ambivalent feelings may prevail
When a family decides to proceed with a monetary claim for the death of a loved one, ambivalent feelings are often intense. No sum of money can bring back the loved one and sometimes the family has feelings of guilt, perhaps because they feel like they are putting a price on a person's life. Unfortunately, a monetary award is the only way civil law can recognize the value of the victim's life, compensate for the death and subsequent losses, and penalize the party or parties at fault.
Recovery for your financial survival
Monetary compensation can help you survive financially. Often, the deceased was depended upon for financial needs as well as emotional ones.
Generally, the following items may be recoverable in a wrongful death action:
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Perhaps skillful advocacy can provide even more
Skillful advocacy at trial may produce an award that truly memorializes the life of the deceased family member while providing funds to support dependents, educate the next generation, and contribute to worthy causes.
Contact us
To discuss a case of wrongful death, call Tate Law Group, LLC at 866-610-7107 or contact us online.
