TACOMA WA WRONGFUL DEATH LAWYER
- Home
- /
- Personal Injury
- /
- Motor Vehicle Accidents
- /
- Wrongful Death Lawyer
Tacoma Wrongful Death Attorney
Table Of Contents
Losing a Loved One Because of Someone Else’s Negligence
No amount of money can bring back a loved one, but a wrongful death claim can assist your family in seeking justice, accountability, and financial support during a devastating time.
At Morgan Hill P.C., we assist families across Tacoma and Pierce County who have lost loved ones due to preventable accidents or acts of carelessness. We understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim in Washington?
Under Washington law (RCW 4.20), a wrongful death occurs when a person dies as a result of another party’s negligent or intentional act.
These are civil claims (separate from any criminal charges) that enable surviving family members to pursue financial damages from the responsible party.
Even if the person responsible faces criminal charges, you can still pursue a wrongful death lawsuit in civil court.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
In Washington, a wrongful death claim generally must be filed by:
- The personal representative of the deceased’s estate
The compensation may then provide benefits to surviving family members such as:
- Spouses or domestic partners
- Children (including stepchildren or adopted children)
- Parents (especially if the victim was a minor or financially supported them)
- Siblings or other dependents, in some cases
If you’re unsure about who can file in your situation, we can help clarify your rights.
What Types of Accidents Lead to Wrongful Death Cases?
Wrongful death lawsuits can stem from various fatal incidents, including:
- Car accidents and truck crashes
- Motorcycle, pedestrian, and bicycle accidents
- DUI or reckless driving collisions
- Hit-and-run crashes
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace injuries
- Dangerous premises (slip-and-fall, unsafe buildings)
- Fatal assaults or negligent security
What Compensation Can Families Recover?
Surviving families might be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Final medical bills
- Lost financial support
- Loss of companionship, love, and care
- Loss of services the deceased contributed, such as childcare and homemaking.
- Pain and suffering the deceased experienced before death (through survival action)
How Our Wrongful Death Attorneys Can Help
You only get one chance to hold the responsible party accountable. We’re here to help you do it with care and confidence.
At Morgan Hill P.C., we will:
- Investigate the fatal accident and gather key evidence
- File all required notices, claims, and court paperwork
- Communicate with insurance companies so you don’t have to
- Coordinate with probate and estate representatives
- Negotiate for a full settlement, or take the case to trial if necessary
Schedule a Free, Private Consultation
If you’ve lost a loved one because of someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone.
Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential consultation. We don’t charge a fee unless we get compensation for your family.
FAQ: Washington Wrongful Death Law
Q: How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Washington?
A: You generally have three years from the date of death. However, acting earlier can help preserve evidence and witness testimony.
Q: Can I sue if criminal charges were never filed?
A: Yes. A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil case and is entirely separate from any criminal proceedings.
Q: What if the deceased didn’t have a will?
A: You can still pursue a claim. The court might appoint a personal representative to manage the estate.
Q: Do I need a lawyer to file a wrongful death case?
A: Yes. These are complicated cases involving probate law, insurance negotiations, and liability disputes. Hiring an experienced wrongful death attorney helps protect your rights.
Practice Areas
FAMILY LAW
PERSONAL INJURY
Our Service Area Locations
Tacoma
Pierce County
Reach Out!
Use the form below to contact us about your legal inquiry. Please provide as much detail as possible. We suggest you first explain the issue you’re experiencing before telling us what you want to accomplish. You can also contact us by email or phone (253) 579-0900) to schedule an appointment.
NOTE: Information found on MorganHillLegal.com is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice nor a solicitation of legal business. No attorney-client relationship attaches as a result of any exchange of information, including emails sent to the Firm. Please do not send us confidential information or sensitive materials. Unsolicited information that you send to us will not be regarded as confidential unless we have agreed to represent you. If you send this email or submit this form, you confirm that you have read and understood this notice.
Morgan Hill P.C. In Tacoma, WA, As Seen On:
