Wrongful Death

Seeking Justice for Your Loved One

At Vlahadamis Law, we understand that losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is devastating. In addition to emotional loss, families often face financial hardships, including medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost income. If you believe your loved one’s death was caused by negligence or misconduct, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim in New York.

Our legal team is here to provide compassionate guidance and strong legal representation to help you seek justice.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim allows surviving family members to hold the responsible party accountable and recover damages for their loss. In New York, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to another party’s negligence, reckless actions, or misconduct.

• Car Accidents – Fatal crashes caused by reckless or impaired driving.
• Medical Malpractice – Death resulting from a doctor’s negligence or misdiagnosis.
• Workplace Accidents – Fatal injuries caused by unsafe conditions.
• Defective Products – Dangerous or faulty products leading to death.
• Criminal Acts – Homicide or fatal injuries resulting from violent crimes.

Common causes of wrongful death cases include:

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in New York?

Unlike some states where family members can file directly, New York law requires a personal representative (such as the executor of the estate) to bring the claim on behalf of surviving family members. Eligible beneficiaries may include:

• Spouse of the deceased
• Children of the deceased
• Parents of the deceased
• Other dependent family members

If you’re unsure who can file on behalf of your loved one, our team can evaluate your case and guide you through the process.

Damages You Can Recover in a Wrongful Death Case

While no amount of compensation can replace a loved one, a wrongful death claim can help relieve financial burdens and provide long-term stability for surviving family members.

Recoverable Damages May Include:

• Medical Expenses – Costs for treatment prior to the victim’s passing.
• Funeral & Burial Costs – Compensation for end-of-life expenses.
• Lost Income & Benefits – Wages the deceased would have earned.
• Pain & Suffering – Damages for the victim’s pre-death suffering.
• Loss of Support & Companionship – Emotional suffering of surviving family members.

Our team works to secure the maximum compensation available under New York law.

How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in New York?

The statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits in New York is generally two years from the date of death. However, specific cases—such as medical malpractice or government-related claims—may have shorter filing deadlines.

Missing the deadline can result in losing your right to compensation, so it’s crucial to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.