Providence Wrongful Death Attorney

Support & Guidance After A Wrongful Death

Losing a family member because of someone else’s actions is devastating. In addition to grief, you may be facing medical bills, funeral expenses, and sudden changes in your household income. A wrongful death lawyer in Providence can help your family seek accountability and the financial support you may need for the future.

At Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C., we have represented Rhode Island families in serious injury and fatality cases since 1975. Our attorneys have more than 200 years of combined experience and have recovered over $1 billion for clients across the state. We understand that calling a law firm at a time like this can feel difficult, and we work to make the process as clear and respectful as possible.

Contact us today at (401) 200-4059 to let our firm help your family during this difficult time.

What is Wrongful Death?

Wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to another party’s negligent, reckless, or intentional actions. These cases arise when a victim would have had the right to file a personal injury lawsuit had they survived. Instead, surviving family members or representatives of the deceased’s estate may pursue a wrongful death claim.

Common situations that may lead to wrongful death claims include:

• Car and truck accidents
• Motorcycle and pedestrian accidents
• Medical malpractice
• Workplace accidents
• Defective products
• Nursing home neglect or abuse
• Dangerous property conditions

Our Providence wrongful death attorney can investigate the circumstances of the death, identify liable parties, and determine whether legal action is appropriate.

Rhode Island Wrongful Death Laws

Rhode Island law allows certain individuals to seek compensation when a person’s death is caused by negligence or wrongful conduct. These cases are typically filed as civil claims separate from any criminal proceedings that may arise.

Key elements generally involved in a wrongful death case include:

• A duty of care owed to the deceased
• A breach of that duty by the responsible party
• A direct link between the breach and the fatal incident
• Measurable damages suffered by surviving family members or the estate

Wrongful death claims are also subject to legal deadlines, known as statutes of limitations. Failing to file within the required timeframe may prevent families from recovering compensation. Working with a Providence wrongful death lawyer early can help protect your rights and ensure the claim is handled properly.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

In many cases, a wrongful death lawsuit is filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate on behalf of surviving beneficiaries. Those who may be entitled to recover damages can include:

• Spouses
• Children
• Parents
• Other dependents or beneficiaries under state law

Each case is unique, and eligibility can depend on family relationships, financial dependency, and estate arrangements. Our Providence wrongful death lawyer can help determine who may bring a claim and how compensation may be distributed.

Compensation for Wrongful Death

The financial impact of a wrongful death can be substantial. Families often face medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one. A wrongful death claim seeks to address these losses and provide financial stability during a difficult time.

Compensation in wrongful death cases may include:

Economic Damages

• Medical bills related to the final injury or illness
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of the deceased’s income and benefits
• Loss of household services

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and support
• Emotional distress

Additional Damages

In some cases, courts may consider additional damages depending on the severity of the conduct involved. Each case varies, and a Providence wrongful death lawyer can evaluate what compensation may be available.

Wrongful Death FAQs

How do I know if I have a wrongful death case?

If your loved one died due to another person or entity’s negligence, you may have grounds for a claim. An attorney can review the circumstances and determine whether legal action is appropriate.

How long does a wrongful death case take?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, the evidence involved, and whether a settlement can be reached. Some cases resolve within months, while others may take longer if litigation is required.

Do I have to go to court?

Not always. Many wrongful death claims are resolved through settlements with insurance companies or responsible parties. However, if a fair resolution cannot be reached, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit.

What if the death was partially the victim’s fault?

In some situations, compensation may still be available even if the deceased shared some responsibility. Legal rules regarding fault and recovery can affect how damages are calculated.

How much does it cost to hire a wrongful death lawyer?

Many wrongful death attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning legal fees are typically paid only if compensation is recovered.

What evidence is needed in a wrongful death claim?

Evidence may include accident reports, medical records, witness statements, expert analysis, and financial documentation related to losses. An attorney can gather and organize this information.

How We Help After A Wrongful Death

When a loved one dies unexpectedly, families often feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start. You may suspect that a hospital, driver, employer, or company is responsible, but you do not know how to confirm that or what to do next. Our role is to listen carefully, help you sort through the facts, and evaluate whether the circumstances support a wrongful death claim.

From the beginning, we focus on gathering information that can clarify what happened. This may include reviewing medical records, incident reports, and other available documents, and identifying individuals or entities that might share responsibility. For deaths involving medical care, our team’s medical malpractice knowledge and access to medical consultants can be especially important in understanding complex medical issues.

Our attorneys bring more than 200 years of combined experience in serious cases, including Rhode Island’s largest medical malpractice verdict and the state’s second-largest personal injury judgment. While past outcomes cannot predict future results, they reflect our commitment to thorough preparation and strong courtroom advocacy when a fair resolution cannot be reached through negotiation.

Throughout a case, we keep families informed and involved. We provide direct access to our attorneys, explain what each stage means in practical terms, and answer questions as they arise. We know that no amount of money can replace a loved one, and we approach every matter with the respect and care that this reality deserves.

To discuss your situation with our team, call (401) 200-4059.