Michigan Wrongful Death Attorneys

Losing a loved one is an extremely difficult time for anyone. But if your loved one’s death was caused by another person’s wrongful conduct or negligence, the loss can often become even more difficult. When someone’s death is caused by another person’s negligence, a wrongful death lawsuit may be filed.

A wrongful death claim can help the deceased person’s family members receive the closure they need, as well as the financial compensation to which they’re entitled.

In Michigan, if a person is killed due to the negligence of another, the estate of the deceased individual can bring a wrongful death action against the at-fault party under the Michigan Wrongful Death Act (MCL 600.2922).

Who Can Bring A Wrongful Death Claim?

Relatives entitled to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit include surviving spouses, children, parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters, and stepchildren of the deceased victim.

What Damages Does The Wrongful Death Act Permit Relatives To Recover?

Generally, close relatives of a deceased individual can seek compensation for the loss of financial support, the loss of services, and perhaps most importantly, the loss of the love, affection, companionship and society of their loved one.

There are also formal requirements under Michigan probate law, such as the appointment of a Personal Representative for the deceased person’s estate, which must be satisfied before a lawsuit alleging wrongful death can be pursued.

Understanding the benefits available to the deceased victim’s estate can be difficult, and requires diligence by the representative of the estate to ensure that these benefits are collected. It may also be wise to seek legal advice from experienced Michigan wrongful death attorneys who can assist in navigating the process.

Other Concerns When Bringing A Wrongful Death Claim

No-Fault Benefits for Fatal Car Accidents

When a Michigan resident is killed in an auto accident, or dies as a result of injuries sustained in an auto accident, the victim’s estate is entitled to certain personal protection insurance (PIP) benefits under the Michigan no-fault law.
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Wrongful Death Claims in Michigan

When bringing a wrongful death claim, you must first identify the person(s) who should be appointed Personal Representative of the deceased individual’s estate. You must also file a petition to open an estate in Probate Court.
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