Wrongful Death

Wrongful death cases are heart-rending and difficult to navigate because they typically involve family members who have suffered the loss of a loved one. In Virginia, in order to pursue a wrongful death claim and recover damages for the beneficiaries, one has to prove that the death was caused by the defendant’s wrongful conduct and that such conduct created a natural, direct series of events that led to the death.

Wrongful death lawsuits arise from many different causes, such as auto accidents, medical malpractice, and construction accidents. These cases are typically complex because of the many variables involved with compensation: the decedent’s salary that could have been earned, life expectancy based on gender and age, and physical and mental health. Burnett & Williams’ attorneys have over three decades of experience working on these difficult and important cases. While legal action is not something a grieving family member immediately thinks about in the aftermath of a death, in most cases, it is important that an attorney be consulted as soon as possible to avoid compromising the claim. We are especially responsive to the needs of our clients during the difficult time of losing a loved one, and many of our clients report a sense of relief in having us handle the legal matters for the family.