Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is one of the most devastating experiences a family can face. At MPG Trial Law, we understand the emotional and financial toll that wrongful death brings, and we are here to stand by your side during this difficult time.
Our Atlanta wrongful death attorneys provide comprehensive legal support, guiding families through every step of the process with compassion and clarity. From investigating the circumstances of your loved one’s passing to building a strong case for trial, we are committed to pursuing justice with the skill and dedication your family deserves.
At MPG Trial Law, we see our role as more than just legal advocates. We are partners in helping families find a path forward. We work tirelessly to secure rightful compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and the immeasurable loss of companionship, ensuring that your loved one’s story is heard and honored in court.
What Constitutes a Wrongful Death Case?
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 51-4), a wrongful death case arises when a person’s life is taken due to the negligence, recklessness, intentional act, or criminal conduct of another party. In other words, if the deceased could have pursued a personal injury claim had they survived, their family or estate may instead file a wrongful death action. Common circumstances that may give rise to a wrongful death claim in Georgia include:
- Car, truck, or motorcycle accidents caused by negligent drivers.
- Medical malpractice, such as surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or negligent care.
- Defective or dangerous products that cause fatal injuries.
- Workplace accidents or unsafe conditions.
- Criminal acts, including assaults or drunk driving.
Georgia law allows certain surviving family members, typically the spouse, children, or parents of the deceased, to bring a wrongful death action. If no eligible family members exist, the executor or administrator of the estate may file on behalf of the estate.
The purpose of a wrongful death claim is to recover the “full value of the life of the decedent” as measured from the perspective of the deceased, which can include economic damages (lost wages, benefits, financial contributions) and intangible damages (loss of companionship, care, and guidance). An Atlanta wrongful death lawyer can help you.
Understanding Compensation and Damages
Damages are generally divided into two categories: economic and non-economic. Economic damages cover measurable financial contributions the deceased would have provided, such as lost wages, benefits, and services, as well as medical bills and funeral expenses. Non-economic damages recognize the immeasurable aspects of loss, including companionship, care, guidance, and the emotional impact of losing a loved one.
In certain cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. Unlike compensatory damages, which focus on the family’s loss, punitive damages are designed to punish especially reckless or intentional misconduct and to deter similar behavior in the future.
At MPG Trial Law, we carefully evaluate personal injury cases to ensure families pursue all forms of compensation available under Georgia law.
The Legal Process in a Wrongful Death Legal Claim
Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
The process begins with a free consultation, where our attorneys listen to your story, review the circumstances of your loved one’s passing, and explain your legal options. During this stage, we evaluate whether the facts support a wrongful death claim under Georgia law and outline the steps needed to move forward. The goal of our law firm is to provide clarity and reassurance while giving you the information you need to make confident decisions.
Filing the Claim in Atlanta
If your case meets the requirements for a wrongful death action, we will file the wrongful death claim in the appropriate Atlanta court on behalf of your family. This legal filing formally begins the process and sets the stage for pursuing compensation. We ensure all documents are prepared accurately and submitted within Georgia’s statute of limitations, protecting your right to seek justice.
Investigation and Gathering Evidence
Once the claim is filed, our team conducts a thorough investigation into the cause of death. This may include reviewing medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony. By gathering and preserving strong evidence, we build a compelling case that demonstrates how negligence or misconduct led to your loved one’s death.
Settlement Negotiations
Many wrongful death cases in Georgia are resolved through negotiated settlements. During this stage, we represent your family in discussions with insurance companies and opposing counsel to pursue fair compensation without the stress of trial. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who balance compassion with determination, always prioritizing your family’s best interests.
Trial Proceedings
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, MPG Trial Law is fully prepared to take your wrongful death lawsuit to trial. In court, we present evidence, question witnesses, and advocate zealously on your behalf. While other firms avoid litigation at all costs, we know that the best outcomes are achieved by handling a case with the mindset that your case will go to trial at some point. Our trial experience and proven record of multimillion-dollar verdicts give families the confidence that their case is in capable hands.
The Role of an Atlanta Wrongful Death Lawyer
Legal Advice and Strategic Planning
An experienced Atlanta wrongful death lawyer provides more than just legal representation. They offer guidance and strategy tailored to your family’s unique situation. From the very beginning, your Atlanta wrongful death lawyer will explain your rights under Georgia law, outline the potential value of your claim, and develop a legal strategy designed to maximize results. This strategic planning ensures that every step taken is in the best interest of your family and honors the memory of your loved one.
Liaison with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies after a wrongful death can be overwhelming, especially when adjusters attempt to minimize payouts. Your wrongful death lawyer acts as a protective barrier between your family and the insurers, handling all communications, negotiations, and paperwork. By managing these interactions, your wrongful death attorney ensures that your family is not taken advantage of and that the insurance company is held accountable for offering a fair settlement.
Representation in Court
If negotiations do not lead to a just resolution, your wrongful death lawyer becomes your advocate in the courtroom. This includes presenting evidence, questioning witnesses, and making persuasive arguments before a judge and jury. With trial-tested experience and a record of securing significant verdicts, an Atlanta wrongful death attorney ensures your loved one’s story is told and their surviving family members’ rights are fully protected.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyers
We know that no amount of money can ever replace the loss of a loved one. Through skilled legal representation, we can help families find justice and the financial support they need to move forward. Our team of dedicated personal injury attorneys has a proven record of success in handling complex wrongful death accidents, securing multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements for grieving families across Georgia.
We combine compassionate client care with aggressive advocacy, ensuring that your voice is heard and your rights are fully protected. Whether through settlement negotiations or trial, we fight tirelessly to help you seek compensation for both the financial and emotional impact of your loss.
If your family has suffered from a tragic death, don’t face the legal process alone. Contact MPG Trial Law today for a free consultation and let us stand by your side as we hold the responsible party accountable.