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Wrongful Death (New Jersey)

New Jersey Attorneys Win Compensation in Wrongful Death Cases

Woodland Park law firm provides compassionate counsel for grieving families

When someone's negligence causes another person's death, it places both an emotional and financial strain on the victim's family as they face the loss of love, companionship and support. At Licatesi Law Group, LLP, we are tireless advocates for families who have lost loved ones as a result of such tragedies. Based in Woodland Park, we serve clients in Passaic County and surrounding areas of New Jersey.

What is wrongful death?

Wrongful death means a death resulting from the actions or omissions of another person or entity. Typical causes of wrongful death include:

  • Medical malpractice
  • Manufacturing defects
  • Criminal acts
  • Exposure to toxic substances

To have a valid wrongful death claim, the death must have resulted from someone else's negligence, recklessness or intentional acts. The person or entity responsible for the death is legally liable to compensate the deceased person's family for the losses they have suffered.

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, the personal representative or administrator of the deceased person's estate has the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. The personal representative is usually a family member or someone close to the deceased person who has been appointed by the court to handle the estate's affairs.

The wrongful death lawsuit must be filed within two years of the date of death, although in some cases involving the discovery of the cause of death or criminal activity, the deadline may be extended.

What damages can be recovered in a New Jersey wrongful death case?

New Jersey law allows recovery for both economic and non-economic losses in wrongful death cases. Damages that may be available include:

Economic Damages

  • Lost earnings and benefits the deceased would have provided
  • Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness
  • Funeral and burial expenses

Non-Economic Damages

  • Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support
  • Loss of services the deceased provided to the family
  • Pain and suffering of surviving family members