New Hampshire Wrongful Death Attorneys

Compassionate Support for Families Affected by Negligence

The death of a loved one is a traumatic loss for families. It is even more difficult to imagine that the loss is due to the negligence or misconduct of another person. Our New Hampshire wrongful death lawyers can be aggressive and protect you and your family when you call Douglas, Leonard & Garvey, P.C.. We understand the emotional turmoil and financial strain a wrongful death can bring, and we are here to support you every step of the way. 

Our team is dedicated to offering not only legal representation but also the empathetic support that families need during such a challenging time. Involving legal professionals early, like a wrongful death attorney in New Hampshire, can help ensure that your rights are preserved and that the responsible parties are held accountable swiftly.

Call (603) 288-1403 for a free consultation, or contact our New Hampshire wrongful death firm online. We have offices in Concord and Portsmouth. Call today.

Do I Have a Wrongful Death Case?

You may have a wrongful death case if you are able to prove that another person or entity's negligent actions or intentional actions caused an accident resulting in the death of your loved one. Determining this requires a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, often involving the collection of evidence and expert testimonies. 

The legal landscape can be complex, and engaging with adept Concord wrongful death lawyers ensures all potential avenues for establishing negligence are explored. We assist in gathering evidence such as medical records, accident reports, and witness statements, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the incident.

Why Hire a Wrongful Death Attorney?

Many people ask, “Do I need a lawyer?” You want someone with experience and a proven track record. Our lawyers include a former state Supreme Court and Superior Court judge, Charles G. Douglas, III. On top of that, he wrote the New Hampshire Evidence Manual, which is used by judges and lawyers across the state regarding evidence in court. This is the knowledge and experience you need to take on the insurance company, protect your rights, and get the compensation you deserve. In addition to their experience, our attorneys offer strategic advice tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. They work tirelessly to investigate claims thoroughly and anticipate potential defense strategies used by the other side.

Family members tell us, “We don’t want this to happen to anyone else.” We have extensive experience in representing families in wrongful death actions, and we understand the difficult nature of these cases. Our commitment is to seek justice and preventative measures that ensure similar incidents do not occur. This involves collaborating with safety experts to identify systemic issues that could be addressed to enhance public safety.

Whether the wrongful death is from a pedestrian hit by a drunk driver, a child struck by a careless motorist, or a death caused by a medical mistake, our wrongful death lawyers in Concord and Portsmouth will fight to hold those individuals or institutions accountable. We examine every case thoroughly to ensure no detail is overlooked, working alongside forensic experts if needed to piece together events with precision and clarity.

Do You Have To Deal With Insurance Companies in a Wrongful Death Case?

In a wrongful death case, you will typically be dealing with an insurance company. Insurance companies have teams of people working for them to try to pay the lowest amount for your claim. Don’t be at the mercy of the insurance company. It is important to have strong legal representation to counteract these tactics and push for fair compensation. Our attorneys are skilled in negotiating with insurance companies to secure settlements that reflect the true impact of a lost life on a family. We also consider future losses, such as lost income and emotional suffering, in our calculations to ensure comprehensive claims.

Nothing can replace a loved one, and no amount of money will bring back your loved one. But our laws allow you to seek justice and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. This legal action can also serve as a deterrent to prevent future wrongdoing and promote safer practices, benefits that extend beyond financial compensation. By holding wrongdoers accountable, families contribute to a greater standard of care and vigilance in communities.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in New Hampshire?

According to New Hampshire law, a spouse, child, parent, grandparent, or sibling may file a wrongful death claim on behalf of a deceased loved one. In cases where there is no surviving spouse, child, or parent, a representative of the deceased’s estate may file a wrongful death claim, recoverable by the deceased’s next of kin. Understanding who can file a claim is crucial to initiating legal proceedings properly, and our team provides guidance on selecting the most appropriate representative to ensure proceedings align with New Hampshire laws.

In all wrongful death cases, the statute of limitations to file a claim is six years. This means you have six years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a claim, or you may lose your opportunity to do so. Timely filing is essential, not only to preserve legal rights but also to allow for the collection of fresh evidence. We advise clients to act promptly to avoid delays that may harm the integrity of their claims.

Supporting Families Through Legal Guidance in New Hampshire

Beyond the legal proceedings, wrongful death cases require sensitivity and understanding of the unique challenges each family faces. At Douglas, Leonard & Garvey, P.C., we emphasize empathy in our practice, acknowledging the emotional toll on grieving families. We offer a supportive environment where clients can freely share their concerns, ensuring they feel secure and informed throughout the process. Our lawyers prioritize clear communication, simplifying legal jargon to ensure that families fully understand their rights and options.

Our approach involves not only legal strategy but also coordinating with local support networks and organizations that provide families with necessary resources during these times. This holistic approach helps families begin healing while pursuing justice, making us a compassionate choice for representation in wrongful death matters in New Hampshire. Our firm strives to be a pillar of support throughout this challenging journey, standing by our clients with unwavering dedication and care.

Our team of attorneys are ready to help you! Call (603) 288-1403 for a free consultation.

FAQ: Navigating Wrongful Death Claims in New Hampshire

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Claim?

In New Hampshire, damages in a wrongful death claim can vary based on the specifics of the incident and the relationship of the survivor to the deceased. Typically, recoverable damages include funeral and burial expenses, medical expenses incurred before death, loss of the deceased's future income, and loss of companionship. Pain and suffering of the deceased before their passing can also factor into the calculation of damages. Additionally, families might seek punitive damages, which serve to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar acts. Discussing the specifics with a knowledgeable attorney can provide clarity on what might be applicable in an individual case.

How Long Does a Wrongful Death Proceeding Take?

The duration of a wrongful death proceeding in New Hampshire can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of parties to negotiate. Proceedings might resolve in a few months through settlements, but if a case goes to court, it can extend over several years. Cases involving thorough investigations, complex claims, or multiple defendants can prolong the timeline. Our team works efficiently to move cases along while thoroughly preparing evidence and arguments to withstand scrutiny, ensuring that families receive justice without unnecessary delays.

Can Punitive Damages Be Awarded in Wrongful Death Cases?

In New Hampshire, punitive damages are generally not recoverable in wrongful death actions except under specific circumstances of egregious misconduct. The primary aim of these damages is to punish particularly reckless or malicious behavior and to deter others from similar actions. While rare in practice, consulting with our legal team can provide deeper insight into whether punitive damages may be appropriate based on the unique circumstances surrounding your loved one’s case. It's crucial to discuss these potential damages with experienced legal counsel who can help evaluate this aspect of your claim.

What Steps Should I Take If I Suspect Wrongful Death?

If you suspect wrongful death, it is important to act promptly to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights. Start by documenting everything related to the incident, including medical records and communications. Contact a wrongful death lawyer in Concord as soon as possible to begin the legal process. Our team can help guide you through initial assessments and recommend necessary investigative actions from the outset. Early involvement of attorneys can safeguard against the deterioration of evidence and help establish a strong foundation for your claim.

How Does the Loss of a Loved One Affect Family Dynamics?

The death of a family member due to wrongful actions can significantly impact family dynamics, often leading to emotional upheaval and changing family roles. Support systems can become strained, and the loss of a family's primary income earner can introduce financial hardships. At Douglas, Leonard & Garvey, P.C., we understand that each family reacts differently, and we are committed to alleviating some of these burdens by handling the legal complexities. Our approach is sensitive to each family’s needs while driving towards achieving justice and closure.

Contact Our New Hampshire Wrongful Death Attorneys for Help

Once our New Hampshire wrongful death lawyers are involved, we’ll take immediate action. We handle all communications on your behalf and bring the peace of mind that you are not alone in dealing with this problem. Our law firm will investigate the facts and put together the best legal strategy. This may involve interviewing witnesses, consulting medical experts, or preserving other helpful evidence. By building a strong foundation from the beginning, we aim to provide the best possible outcome while protecting our clients from the stresses of legal proceedings. Our detail-oriented approach ensures that every aspect of your situation is considered, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive and compelling argument.

Call (603) 288-1403 for a free consultation with our New Hampshire wrongful death attorneys. Our offices are located in Portsmouth and Concord -- reach out today!