How Much Is a Wrongful Death Claim Worth in Alabama? 

Of course, no amount of money can make up for the loss of someone we love. That said, legal compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit in Alabama can provide surviving family members with a measure of justice and ease the financial instability brought on by a sudden and unexpected loss.

Surviving loved ones are often left asking, “How much is a wrongful death lawsuit worth?” The answer can be complicated and may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case. The compassionate legal team at Stokes Stemle, LLC, is ready to evaluate your case and help you understand your legal rights and options going forward. Contact us today to learn more in a free, no-obligation case review.

How Is Wrongful Death Defined in Alabama?

Alabama law defines a wrongful death as a fatality caused by another party’s wrongful act, omission, or negligence. For example, wrongful deaths could result from accidents like car crashes or intentional acts, such as violent crimes.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Alabama?

Only the personal representative of a decedent’s estate has the authority to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Alabama. Often, the personal representative is named in the deceased person’s will, in which case they are sometimes referred to as the executor of the estate. However, in the absence of a will, the personal representative may be appointed by a court, in which case they are sometimes referred to as an administrator.

There exists an exception to these rules in cases involving the wrongful death of a minor. If the decedent was a minor, their parents have six months to file a wrongful death suit.

What Compensation Can I Receive Through a Wrongful Death Claim in Alabama?

Though only personal representatives have legal authority to file wrongful death lawsuits in Alabama, any compensation recovered goes to the decedent’s surviving loved ones. This may include their spouse, children, parents, and others who were dependent upon the deceased for support.

Alabama courts handle wrongful death claims very differently from other jurisdictions. Alabama law only allows for the recovery of punitive damages in wrongful death claims. Uniquely, compensatory damages are not allowed. As the name suggests, compensatory damages are meant to reimburse plaintiffs for their losses. By contrast, punitive damages aim to punish wrongdoers and deter harmful behavior in the future.

The amount of money you can get from a wrongful death claim in Alabama is determined on a case-by-case basis. Factors such as the defendant’s degree of fault, the nature of their wrongful act, and how the death affected your family can affect the value of your case. No matter the circumstances, the legal team at Stokes Stemle, LLC, is ready to help you on the path toward maximum compensation.

Is There a Deadline for Filing My Wrongful Death Claim?

Yes. Personal representatives have a limited amount of time to file a wrongful death lawsuit. The Alabama statute of limitations governing wrongful death lawsuits gives them two years after a decedent’s passing to file a lawsuit seeking compensation. Missing this deadline normally destroys their ability to seek compensation in court. So, it is a good idea to contact a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible after losing a loved one to a wrongful death.

Contact an Experienced Alabama Wrongful Death Lawyer Today 

At Stokes Stemle, LLC, we understand how painful it is to lose a loved one, especially due to someone else’s actions. We also understand that no amount of money can make up for your loss. However, the law does provide an avenue toward justice and accountability. Our legal team is ready to help you down that path. Contact us today to speak with an Alabama wrongful death lawyer about your case in a free, no-obligation consultation.