Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is incredibly overwhelming. Families are often left grieving while facing medical bills, funeral expenses, and unanswered questions about what happened and what comes next. During this difficult time, understanding your legal options can feel confusing and emotionally draining.
Pitkin Law’s trusted wrongful death attorneys help families in Naples navigate wrongful death claims with care and clarity. Our attorneys handle the legal process from start to finish so families can focus on healing. We explain your rights, investigate what happened, and pursue accountability in a way that respects your loss and your family’s needs.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida?
A wrongful death claim arises when a person passes away as a result of another party’s negligence, recklessness, or wrongful conduct. Florida law allows surviving family members to pursue compensation through a civil claim when your loved one’s death could have been prevented.
These claims are intended to address both financial losses and the emotional impact on surviving loved ones. While no amount of money can replace a life, a wrongful death claim can provide financial stability and a sense of justice.
Types of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle
Wrongful death cases can arise from many different situations. Common examples include:
Each case requires a detailed investigation to determine how negligence occurred and who is responsible. At Pitkin Law, we put your family first. If you believe your loved one passed away due to someone else’s wrongdoing, reach out at (239) 438-1114 today.
Time Limits for Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Florida
Florida generally requires wrongful death claims to be filed within two years of the date of death. This deadline is strictly enforced in most cases.
The timeline for filing wrongful death claims arising from medical negligence, families have two years from when the malpractice occurred or when the malpractice was discovered. Florida also has a four-year statute of repose that can extend the filing deadline up to seven years for fraud of concealment.
Waiting too long can result in losing the right to pursue compensation, even if the claim is otherwise valid.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases in Naples
Wrongful death cases often involve preventable conduct. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted, impaired, or reckless driving
- Failure to diagnose or treat medical conditions
- Unsafe working environments
- Poor property maintenance
- Product defects or manufacturing errors
The fact is that the cause of a wrongful death doesn’t have to be from a major wreck. Even minor accidents can unfortunately lead to devastating consequences. Just because an accident shouldn’t have caused someone’s death, it doesn’t mean the insurance company has a right to deny surviving loved ones the compensation they need.
Possible Damages from a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Florida law allows families to recover damages that reflect both economic and personal losses. Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness
- Loss of income and financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Mental pain and suffering of surviving family members
The exact damages available depend on who survives the deceased and how the death has impacted the family. An experienced wrongful death attorney will be able to estimate how much compensation a family is owed for the unfortunate loss of their loved one.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Florida?
In Florida, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate files the wrongful death claim. The lawsuit is brought on behalf of eligible survivors, which may include:
- A surviving spouse
- Children of the deceased
- Parents of the deceased
- Other dependents in certain situations
Identifying eligible beneficiaries and properly structuring the claim is an important legal step. If none of the above are relevant to your situation, reaching out to an experienced wrongful death lawyer at Pitkin Law can be beneficial for understanding your legal options.
How a Naples Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help Your Family
Wrongful death claims involve complex legal rules and emotional challenges. Having legal representation allows families to step back from negotiations and paperwork while their attorney handles the case.
A wrongful death lawyer can help by:
- Investigating the cause of death and preserving evidence
- Identifying all responsible parties
- Managing communication with insurance companies
- Calculating the full value of losses
- Negotiating settlements or preparing for trial
- Ensuring all deadlines and legal requirements are met
Pitkin Law takes a hands-on approach to every case and keeps families informed without overwhelming them.
Why Choose a Pitkin Law Wrongful Death Attorney for Your Case
Families turn to Pitkin Law because we understand that wrongful death cases are not just legal matters. They are deeply personal losses that affect every part of a family’s life. We approach each case with compassion, patience, and respect. We have the drive to apply our legal knowledge and the attention to detail needed to pursue meaningful accountability. Our goal is to shoulder the legal burden so families can focus on healing.
We take the time to understand who your loved one was and how their loss has affected your family. Every step we take is guided by the goal of honoring their life through a thoughtful and thorough legal process that seeks justice and financial security for those they left behind.
Our Process for Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Our approach is designed to reduce stress for grieving families while fully protecting their legal rights at every stage of a wrongful death claim. We handle the legal details with care and precision, allowing you to focus on your family and your well-being while we pursue accountability.
Our process typically includes:
- An initial consultation to understand your situation, listen to your concerns, and explain your legal options in clear, straightforward terms.
- A thorough investigation and evidence collection process, including medical records, accident reports, expert opinions, and witness statements.
- Identification of all liable parties and applicable insurance coverage to ensure no potential source of recovery is overlooked.
- Careful evaluation of damages and claim value, taking into account financial losses and the personal impact of your loved one’s passing.
- Negotiation with insurance companies or, when necessary, litigation to pursue a fair and meaningful outcome.
- Resolution focused on your family’s needs, goals, and long-term stability.
Throughout the process, we remain available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer guidance. We believe families deserve transparency, compassion, and steady support while navigating an incredibly difficult time.
Speak With a Naples Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
If your family has lost a loved one due to negligence in Naples or the surrounding area, legal guidance is available. At Pitkin Law, we offer free consultations and work to make the process as manageable as possible during an incredibly difficult time.
Contact us today at (239) 438-1114 to speak with a wrongful death attorney who will listen, explain your options, and help you determine the best path forward.