Wrongful Death Lawyers in Atlanta, GA

Losing a loved one due to the negligent actions of another person or business is one of the most world-shattering things that can happen to you and your family. Wrongful deaths are almost always accompanied by severe emotional trauma, but it’s important not to overlook the cascading financial repercussions of these tragedies.

Things like emergency medical care bills and funeral expenses are significant, but they’re also one-time costs. Surviving family members are frequently saddled with ongoing financial consequences, including the loss of household income, loss of benefits (health insurance, retirement savings, college savings), loss of consortium and much more.

Parents who have lost a spouse may need to pay for additional childcare, which can be hugely expensive, or hire a house cleaning service and landscaper to help with chores their deceased spouse used to perform. The situation is even more severe if a parent, spouse or children were entirely reliant on the deceased’s income.

Holding the person or business who caused your loved one’s wrongful death accountable is important, but so is your continued financial stability and quality of life. The team at the Law Office of Rickard, Drew & Nix will fight for both the justice your family deserves and the money you need to begin healing.

What Is Loss of Consortium and Who Is Eligible to Receive It in Georgia?

Loss of consortium damages are available specifically to spouses in Georgia. A spouse’s suffering is unique in the wake of a wrongful death. They suffer a profound loss of companionship, support and affection. While it’s impossible to truly put a dollar amount on that loss, it is necessary for the party responsible for it to pay monetary damages.

Loss of consortium is intended to cover a broad range of things:

• Losing physical intimacy
• Never again being able to spend time with the person you love
• Increased parenting responsibilities
• Needing to handle all household chores and tasks
• The stress of having to deal with all the aspects of a loved one’s accident and death (medical bills, funeral arrangements, etc.)

It’s important to note that loss of consortium damages are highly dependent on the deceased individual’s current relationship status. A parent cannot seek loss of consortium damages for the death of an adult child, even if the parent was dependent on that adult child for financial support. An ex-spouse also wouldn’t be able to seek loss of consortium damages even though they may still be entitled to financial compensation for the loss of spousal support.

Understanding Your Options in a Wrongful Death Case

Families reeling from the wrongful death of a loved one generally aren’t focused on maximizing a claim settlement, especially in the days, weeks and months after their loved one’s passing. However, consulting with a skilled Atlanta personal injury team experienced in wrongful death litigation can be hugely beneficial. The Law Office of Rickard, Drew & Nix will strive to handle the legal and compensatory negotiations and legwork so you can focus on your own family.