When you lose a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, the emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming. In Atlanta, Georgia, the law allows families to seek justice through wrongful death lawsuits. These cases can lead to settlements, which are agreements to pay money to those who have suffered loss. It’s important to understand how these settlements are distributed.
Who Receives the Settlement?
The first thing you need to know is who is eligible to receive the settlement from a wrongful death lawsuit. In Georgia, the deceased person’s closest relatives are the ones entitled. This usually means the spouse, children, or, if the deceased has neither, the parents. The settlement is meant to compensate for the loss of financial support, love, care, and companionship that the deceased would have provided.
How Is the Settlement Amount Determined?
Determining the amount of a settlement involves many factors. These include how much the deceased earned, their potential future earnings, the circumstances of their death, and the extent of the negligence that led to their death. Lawyers and insurance companies often negotiate settlements based on these factors. In some cases, other financial professionals are brought in to help calculate the expected lifetime earnings of the deceased.
The Role of Lawyers in the Process
Lawyers play a crucial role in wrongful death lawsuits. They help negotiate settlements and ensure that the distribution follows Georgia law. Having a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. They can guide you through the legal process, represent your interests in negotiations, and work to get you a fair settlement.
Distribution of the Settlement
Once a settlement is reached, the distribution process begins. If the deceased had a will, the settlement is typically distributed according to its terms, under the supervision of the estate’s executor. If there is no will, the settlement is distributed according to state laws of intestacy. It’s important to note that the settlement is also used to cover any outstanding debts and expenses, such as funeral costs and the costs of the lawsuit itself.
How Atlanta Wrongful Death Lawyers Can Help
Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things anyone can go through, especially when it’s due to someone else’s carelessness. During this time, dealing with legal matters is likely the last thing on your mind. However, getting a fair settlement can provide financial security and a sense of justice, helping you and your family move forward.
If you’re in Atlanta and have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, Butler Kahn is here to help. Our wrongful death attorneys understand the pain and financial strain you’re going through, and we’re focused on getting you the settlement you deserve. We will guide you through the legal process, fight for your rights, and ensure that the settlement is distributed fairly according to Georgia law. Reach out to Butler Kahn by calling (678) 940-1444 or contacting us online for a consultation with an attorney.
