People often describe the early days after an unexpected loss in the family as though they live in a fog. It can be hard to make sense of the world when your family changes so abruptly. Grief can be hard to handle, especially when you had no reason to expect the loss of your loved one. You expected to still have decades together, and now everything about your life seems different.
It is normal for people to struggle as they adjust to life without an immediate family member. Although there will be some support, like a few days off of work and possibly meals brought by members of your church, there will be some major changes for your family.
Your family dynamics, the division of labor and even your monthly budget will change. There will be personal losses to address and financial losses that your family will need to somehow recover. For those trying to address a lifetime of lost support and income, a wrongful death lawsuit could be a useful tool. What can a family gain from filing a wrongful death lawsuit in New Jersey?
Compensation for their actual losses
New Jersey has a wrongful death lawsuit that permits financial claims related to a death caused by negligence or misconduct. Surviving family members can ask the responsible party to reimburse them for the financial impact of their loved one’s death.
The lawsuit might include claims for someone’s future income, including the value of their employment benefits. Family members can seek the cost of funeral services and burial, as well as costs incurred prior to someone’s death. Even the fair market value of someone’s household work can be part of a wrongful death claim.
A sense of justice and closure
Especially if there were no criminal charges related to your family’s recent tragedy, a successful civil claim against the business or person responsible can be a form of justice. When the courts hold the responsible party accountable for the impact of their actions on your family, you may have an easier time accepting the situation and moving on with your life.
While going through civil court proceedings can be stressful, obtaining justice can be very valuable for those who have recently lost a loved one. Learning more about New Jersey wrongful death lawsuits could help you decide if going to court might benefit your family.