Navigating Loss – How a Georgia Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help Your Family Move Forward
Losing a loved one is always painful, but it becomes even harder when the death could have been prevented. Families are often left with emotional grief, financial strain, and unanswered questions. When negligence plays a role in someone’s death, surviving family members may have legal options. A wrongful death claim can hold the responsible party accountable and help ease some of the burdens left behind.
At Sarah Flack Law, we work closely with families during these difficult times. We understand how painful it is to experience a sudden loss, and we offer legal support with compassion and care. If you believe your family member’s death was caused by someone else’s carelessness, a Georgia wrongful death attorney can help you move forward.
What Georgia Law Says About Wrongful Death
Under Georgia law, wrongful death is defined as the death of a person caused by the negligent, reckless, or intentional acts of another. The state statute that governs these claims is O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2. This law outlines who can file a wrongful death claim, what compensation may be available, and how the courts handle these cases.
The right to file a wrongful death claim typically starts with the surviving spouse. If there is no spouse, the decedent’s children may bring the claim. If there are no surviving children, the parents or the estate’s representative can file the lawsuit.
Georgia recognizes two categories of damages in wrongful death claims. The first is economic damages, such as lost income the deceased would have earned. The second is non-economic damages, which include the emotional value of the person’s life — such as companionship, guidance, and time with family.
The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in Georgia is generally two years from the date of death. If the claim is not filed within that time frame, the court may not allow it to move forward. It’s important to act promptly so you can preserve your legal rights.
Who Can Be Held Responsible
Many different people or companies can be held responsible in a wrongful death case. Liability depends on the circumstances of how the death occurred. In Georgia, individuals, businesses, and other third parties may all be held legally accountable.
Some of the most common causes of wrongful death include:
- Car accidents caused by reckless or drunk drivers
- Medical malpractice, such as surgical mistakes or misdiagnosis
- Unsafe workplace conditions, especially in construction or industrial jobs
- Defective products that cause fatal injuries
- Criminal acts or negligent security
Each case is different, and a full investigation is often needed to determine who was responsible and how the death could have been avoided. In some cases, multiple parties may share liability.
Types of Compensation Families May Recover
Georgia law allows families to recover compensation that reflects both financial losses and the emotional toll of losing a loved one. The amount awarded will depend on the facts of the case, but typical damages include both economic and non-economic losses.
Economic damages may include:
Funeral and burial costs
Medical expenses related to the fatal injury
Lost income the deceased would have earned over a lifetime
Non-economic damages focus on the emotional and relational losses:
Loss of companionship and emotional support
Loss of parental guidance for surviving children
Mental anguish and pain caused by the unexpected death
These damages are designed to help the surviving family members adjust to life without their loved one. While no amount of money can replace a life, compensation can help ease some of the challenges that come with a sudden loss.
What Makes These Cases Difficult
Wrongful death claims can be complex. One of the most difficult parts is proving liability. To succeed in a case, you must show that someone else’s actions caused the death. This often requires evidence from medical experts, accident investigators, or workplace safety specialists.
Another challenge is calculating damages, especially future earnings or benefits the deceased would have provided. These amounts can vary based on age, job, health, and life expectancy. Attorneys often work with financial professionals to get accurate estimates.
In some cases, disputes may arise between family members about how compensation should be divided. Georgia law gives specific guidance on how to distribute awards, but disagreements can still happen. Having a knowledgeable attorney can help avoid delays and protect your rights.
How Sarah Flack Law Advocates for Families
At Sarah Flack Law, we take a hands-on approach to every wrongful death case. We know how emotional these situations are, and we take the time to listen to your concerns and help you understand your legal options.
We start by carefully investigating what happened. This includes reviewing medical records, accident reports, and any available video footage or witness statements. If necessary, we consult with experts who can help explain how and why the death occurred.
We also work closely with economic experts to calculate the full value of the life lost. This includes both the financial impact and the personal loss experienced by surviving family members.
If insurance companies or other parties try to offer a low settlement, we push back. We handle all negotiations and are prepared to take your case to court if that’s what it takes to reach a fair outcome. Throughout the process, you will have direct contact with an attorney who will guide you every step of the way.
Why Experience Matters in Wrongful Death Cases
Wrongful death cases involve more than just legal paperwork. They require a deep understanding of Georgia law, attention to detail, and a clear strategy for presenting evidence. These cases are often emotional and legally complex, especially when multiple parties are involved or when large sums of money are at stake.
As an experienced wrongful death attorney based in Atlanta, I know how to build strong cases and support families through difficult times. At Sarah Flack Law, we offer one-on-one guidance and remain accessible to answer your questions. Our focus is always on protecting your interests and helping you get the compensation you deserve.
Taking the First Step Toward Justice
If you lost a loved one due to someone else’s actions, don’t wait to explore your legal options. The clock starts ticking as soon as the death occurs, and missing the filing deadline could mean losing your right to pursue a claim.
Sarah Flack Law offers a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to help you understand whether you have a case. For more in-depth support, you can schedule a 60-minute in-office consultation at our Atlanta office. The in-person consultation is billed at $175 an hour.
To learn more or speak with a Georgia wrongful death attorney, contact Sarah Flack Law in Atlanta today. Call 678-331-7805 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help your family take the next step forward.
