Supporting Wrongful Death Claims

At the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote in OKC, we could provide the knowledgeable legal advice you need to file a wrongful death lawsuit if you are your loved one’s personal representative. We understand that no monetary compensation can make up for your losses, but it could still help you cope with the financial impact of your loss. Call our law office today to schedule a case review with a skilled wrongful death attorney in Oklahoma City.

man laying on ground after car accident

What is the statute of limitations in Oklahoma for wrongful death?

The statute of limitations in Oklahoma for a wrongful death claim is two years, starting on the date of the person’s death. If you miss this window of opportunity and fail to file your claim before the statute of limitations expires, the court will likely reject it, and you will lose your chance to recover compensation. A personal representative could have any of the following relationships with the deceased:

  • Spouse
  • Parent
  • Child
  • Sibling
  • Named in the deceased’s estate plan
  • Court-appointed representative

Compensation for your losses

Our Oklahoma City wrongful death attorneys understand that it may seem vulgar to assign a monetary figure to the loss of a loved one. The bonds we have with those closest to us far exceed the limits of money, but this is the only way our current justice system can best rectify an injustice, such as losing a dear parent, child, sibling, or spouse.

The courts will often recognize the following damages and order compensation for:

  • Funeral and burial costs
  • The deceased’s pain and suffering between injury and death
  • The deceased’s lost wages, benefits, and earning capability
  • Grief and mental anguish of the deceased’s survivors
  • Loss of companionship, guidance, and consortium
  • Punitive damages to punish and make an example of the liable party
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More than five decades of experience on your side

If you have prematurely lost someone you love as a result of someone else’s carelessness, the legal team at the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote wants to help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Why you should hire our dedicated law firm:

  • Award-winning representation
  • Free, no-obligation consultations
  • Over 50 years of combined experience
  • We’ve recovered millions for our clients

Our Oklahoma City wrongful death lawyers have nearly five decades of combined experience helping families like yours and individuals just like you receive the compensation they deserve for wrongfully having to endure such a tragedy.

Regardless of how it happened, whether it was the result of a car accident, defective product, or medical malpractice, you could expect our team to work relentlessly on your behalf, so you could receive the maximum compensation for your losses.

We know that nothing compares to a loss like this and will do what we can to hold the at-fault party responsible for their actions.

Do not let the statute of limitations expire on your wrongful death lawsuit. Reach out to our offices to speak with our Oklahoma City wrongful death lawyers today in a free, no-obligation consultation today. We are prepared to fight for you and your deceased loved one.

FAQs

What constitutes a wrongful death, and how is it legally defined?

Who can file a wrongful death claim, and what damages can be sought?

What is the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim?

What role does negligence play in wrongful death claims?

What types of evidence are essential in proving a wrongful death claim?

How are damages calculated in a wrongful death claim?

What is the process for initiating a wrongful death claim?

What distinguishes a proficient attorney in handling wrongful death claims?

What constitutes a wrongful death, and how is it legally defined?

Wrongful death occurs when the negligence, misconduct, or wrongful act of another individual, entity, or organization causes a person's demise. Legally, it is defined as a death that results from the breach of a legal duty or a wrongful act, neglect, or default.

Who can file a wrongful death claim, and what damages can be sought?

The specific individuals eligible to file a wrongful death claim vary by state but typically include immediate family members such as spouses, children, and parents of the deceased. Damages that can be sought in a wrongful death claim often encompass economic losses, such as medical and funeral expenses, as well as non-economic losses, like loss of companionship and emotional suffering.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim?

The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim varies by state and can range from one to three years. It's crucial to be aware of the specific time limit applicable to your case, as failing to file within the designated period may result in the forfeiture of your right to seek compensation.

What role does negligence play in wrongful death claims?

Negligence is a critical element in wrongful death claims, as it involves the failure to exercise the level of care that a reasonable person would have exercised in similar circumstances. Establishing negligence is essential in proving liability and seeking compensation for a wrongful death.

What types of evidence are essential in proving a wrongful death claim?

Evidence crucial to proving a wrongful death claim may include accident reports, witness statements, medical records, expert testimony, and documentation of the deceased's financial and personal contributions to their family. Gathering and preserving evidence promptly is vital in building a solid case.

How are damages calculated in a wrongful death claim?

Damages in a wrongful death claim are typically calculated based on various factors, including the deceased's earning capacity, medical and funeral expenses, the impact on the survivors' financial security, and the emotional suffering endured by the surviving family members.

What is the process for initiating a wrongful death claim?

Initiating a wrongful death claim often involves retaining legal representation, filing a complaint in the appropriate court, and serving the defendants with the legal documents. Subsequently, the discovery phase, negotiations, and potential trial proceedings may follow.

What distinguishes a proficient attorney in handling wrongful death claims?

A proficient attorney handling wrongful death claims possesses the expertise to navigate the complexities of this area of law, the compassion to support grieving families, and the determination to pursue the maximum compensation available. From conducting thorough investigations to advocating for the rights of the surviving family members, an experienced wrongful death attorney can provide invaluable support and guidance throughout the legal process. At Stipe & Belote Personal Injury Law, we have the experience you can depend on to guide you through this time. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation today.

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