When a person dies because of the negligence of another party, that party may be subject to a wrongful death lawsuit. A professional wrongful death attorney in Rhode Island may be able to help an individual determine if a suit can be filed and learn more about the details of pursuing such a case.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Case In Rhode Island?
According to state law, only the executor or administrator of the deceased person’s estate has standing to pursue a wrongful death claim. An administrator may be appointed if a person died without a will or trust. An wrongful death attorney in Rhode Island may be able to help the executor gather evidence that negligence may have occurred. He or she may also ensure that the lawsuit is filed in a timely manner.
When Must Such a Case Be Filed?
Rhode Island law requires that a wrongful death suit is filed no more than three years after an individual dies. However, this doesn’t mean that the case must be resolved by then. It is common for cases to be resolved outside of court before a trial starts, during the trial or while a jury verdict is being appealed.
The settlement may include damages such as lost wages or lost future earnings because of a person’s wrongful death. Punitive damages may also be included depending on the facts of the case. State law may limit the amount of punitive damages that can be awarded against government and other entities.
